Test, Test, and Test Again…
This past week was preparing for the cone 6 soda firing. This firing is made up of two tests along with a multitude of glaze experiments.
We’re firing to a cooler temperature. Cone 6 vs Cone 10, about a 120 degree Fahrenheit difference. I’ve never fired to cone 6 before, so I am intrigued by this exploration.
This is a residual firing where no new soda will be introduced into the kiln at temp. The IUS soda kiln has gone through about 40 firings of varying temperatures and different sodium atmospheres. So the bricks in the kiln have really soaked in a lot of soda. This will give the firing atmosphere subtle soda undertone.
Lots of glaze testing. Since I’ve never fired to this temperature, I’ve got my work cut out for me. Thankfully, glazy and my fellow studio mates were great resources to pool together 10 glazes to test. Fingers crossed on the finish and coloration.
The kiln was loaded and is firing off today. Even though this is a residual firing, I couldn’t help but sprinkle a little magic dust.
Lastly, I wanted to push through a couple plates for the upcoming wood. It’s coming up in a week!! Things have kicked off and they won’t be stopping anytime soon.
