Firing A Wood Fueled Rocket Kiln Workshop

ABOUT

In this workshop, you will get the opportunity to participate in loading and firing a rocket kiln. You will have the option of putting your own bisque ware to be glaze fired to 1200*C (cone 6) with glazes provided. There is an option of purchasing a bisque ware pot to have placed in the firing with your name on it, or an option of observing the firing process with no pots in the firing.

What is a Rocket Kiln?

A rocket kiln is a special wood-fueled kiln that rapidly fires your pottery to high temperatures in a relatively short amount of time. It is constructed from various kiln components and spare parts, making it a fairly inexpensive build-cycling material to create a thrifty yet effective tool. A firing typically takes anywhere from three to five hours to achieve 1200*C (cone 6), using around three-wheel barrels of wood. The kiln is fueled by small strips of wood creating a smokeless burn and efficient firing, however, fueled by wood there is not enough ash accumulation to give wood-fired effects. For atmospheric effects, we will introduce soda at the end of the firing making it a wood/soda firing.

Meet our Art Resident

The John Bauer Pottery Studio’s current artist-in-residence Marc Jeannin will demonstrate how to load, fire, and apply soda, and discuss the ins and outs of a rocket kiln design. During the firing, John Bauer will be giving a pinch pot demonstration. This is a bring-your-own braai event, with us cooking during the kiln firing to pass the time. Those with pots in the kiln will be able to pick up their work the following day.

The workshop will be from 10 am – 5 pm

(or whenever the kiln finishes most likely before 5 pm)

Saturday July 20th & Sunday July 28th

The John Bauer Potter Studio

35 Greenwood Rd, Claremont,

Cape Town, 7708

Whatsapp 073 482 7804 to book