Ceramics (Wheel Throwing & Glazing)

Bisque firing is the initial, lower-temperature firing (typically around 1830°F or Cone 06) that hardens the raw clay into a porous state so it can absorb glaze. Glaze firing is the final, high-temperature firing (often up to 2232°F or Cone 6) that melts the glass materials to the pot.

Wedging is the physical process of kneading the clay to push out trapped air bubbles and align the clay particles for uniform consistency. If air bubbles remain inside the clay, they can expand during the high heat of the kiln, causing the piece to explode and damage surrounding work.

Stoneware clay and its respective glazes are typically fired to maturity between Cone 5 and Cone 6 (approximately 2167°F to 2232°F). Firing to this exact temperature vitrifies the clay body, making it highly durable, non-porous, and safe for holding liquids.

Potters use several techniques, including dipping the fired bisqueware directly into a bucket of liquid glaze, pouring the glaze over the piece, or using brushes for detailed application. Because glazes undergo a chemical layer of beauty in the kiln, the pre-fired color often looks nothing like the final result.