While using a simple, traditional brick kiln means sacrificing some of the precision possible with a modern electric or gas kiln, it can be a novel and worthwhile experience. Firing clay using sawdust for fuel is a simple, effective approach to pottery that can produce remarkable results. Making a small sawdust-fired potter's kiln for your backyard is not difficult or expensive, and it offers a way to begin experimenting with this traditional method of firing pottery.
Instructions
1. Arrange a single layer of bricks to create a square platform roughly 2 feet by 2 feet on a flat piece of ground free of grass or greenery and at least 15 feet away from any trees, shrubs or buildings.
2. Set a single row of bricks on the platform along one of its outside edges. Repeat for the remaining sides to create a complete perimeter. Rather than butting bricks up against one another, leave a 1/4-inch gap between each pair to allow some airflow.
3. Repeat Step 2 several times to create a hollow, open-topped box of brick. The height of the box will vary based on the size and amount of pottery you want to fire, but a height of 2 to 3 feet is common.
4. Fill the bottom of the kiln with 1 or 2 inches of sawdust (or 4, if you will be firing greenware).
5. Place pots or other clay pieces to be fired on top of the initial layer of sawdust, and pour in sawdust to surround and cover them to a depth of 1 or 2 inches.
6. Repeat Step 5 until you are out of material to be fired or get within 3 to 4 inches of the top of the kiln.
7. Set small stones (roughly 1 inch in height) along the top layer of bricks to hold the lid up and allow air to flow into the kiln while the sawdust is burning.
8. Add another 2 inches or so of sawdust, and then set kindling or crumpled newspaper on top of it. Light your kiln and place the metal sheet on top for a lid.
