Build a Wood Fire Kiln
Using a traditional wood fire kiln can be a great source of artistic inspiration and personal satisfaction. Commercial and professional wood fire kilns can be as large as buildings and include elaborate heating and airflow systems, but you don't need to go to such trouble and expense to experience the pleasure of firing clay with wood. In fact, with just some basic supplies, you can make a small wood fire kiln in your own backyard.
Instructions
1. Select a site for your kiln that is relatively level, free of grass or plants, and at least 15 to 20 feet from any structures or trees. If necessary, smooth out the ground with a rake or hoe.
2. Lay out a line of bricks with two right angles in it, forming a square with one side missing. Then add a second line of bricks on top of it. Base the size of the square on the metal grate, which should be able to rest on it securely without sticking out beyond the edges.
3. Set the metal grate onto the second line of bricks, and then add two more levels of bricks on top of the grate.
4. Place the iron sheet on the fourth level of bricks with its corners facing the front, back and sides of the kiln. It should look like a diamond resting on the partial square formed by the kiln walls.
5. Place scrap pieces of iron on the bare bricks all around the panel to create a level surface. Then place bricks onto the panel in the shape of a rough circle.
6. Add a few more levels of bricks arranged in the same circular pattern, but make each one smaller than the previous to create a chimney that slants inward.
7. Place some scrap pieces of iron across the top layer of bricks to partially cover the space between them, but leave a sizeable open space in the middle to allow heat to escape.
8. Operate your kiln by stacking firewood on the grate, placing clay pots or other items onto the iron panel for firing and igniting the wood.
