Problems Cooking Your Pieces? Tips for Perfect Cooking

Firing is one of the most critical moments in ceramics. A lapse in attention can ruin all your work, causing cracks, explosions, or poorly melted glazes. If you have ever had these problems, don't worry: here are the keys to avoid mistakes and achieve perfect firing. Take note!

Make Sure the Pieces Are Well Dried

Moisture is the worst enemy of ceramics in the kiln. If you introduce a piece with residual water, the heat will cause the water to expand rapidly, leading to fractures or even explosions inside the kiln. To avoid this:

Let the pieces dry completely before firing. This can take days, depending on the size and thickness of the piece.

If you have doubts, place the piece near a gentle heat source or in a dry environment to speed up the process.

A trick: bring the piece close to your cheek; if you still feel coolness, it means it is still damp.

Organize the Space Inside the Kiln Well

Correctly placing the pieces inside the kiln is key to uniform firing and avoiding accidents. Follow these recommendations:

Do not stack the pieces or place them in contact with each other. This can cause them to stick or break due to pressure.

Use refractory plates or suitable supports to maintain the stability of each piece.

Make sure there is enough air circulation inside the kiln so that the heat is distributed evenly.

Control the Firing Curve

Heating should be gradual. Raising the temperature too quickly can cause stress in the piece, leading to cracks or deformations. To avoid this:

Schedule an appropriate firing curve according to the type of clay or glaze you are using.

The slow heating phase is essential, especially in the first 200-300 °C, when the chemical water is still being eliminated.

At the end of the firing, let the kiln cool naturally before opening it. Sudden temperature changes can crack the pieces.

Conclusion

Ceramic firing is a delicate process, but with the right care, you can avoid problems and achieve durable and well-finished pieces. Do you want to ensure you are working with the best quality materials? In our store, you will find glazes, pigments, and raw materials ideal for all your firings.