Question:
What is Porcelain
Memory
Unlike ceramics, if a porcelain piece is distorted when being removed from a mold and reshaped, it will go back to the distorted shape during the firing process.
Underglazes and one-strokes
It is possible to decorate porcelain bisque with underglazes and one-strokes. This has to be done at a soft bisque(018) since porcelain fired to maturity would not absorb the colour. Some of these colours change when high-fired so it is best to run tests on colours
Lid fit
When firing pieces such as a porcelain box with a lid, the two pieces must be fired together to insure a proper fit. Since porcelain becomes almost liquid during firing, it is necessary to coat the touch surfaces with high-fire kiln wash.
Precautions
If you do not fire porcelain properly, the various colours that porcelain is available in will not be true.
When firing porcelain, your kiln must be very clean. To ensure that it is, you should vacuum it out before a porcelain firing.
Slip
A gallon of porcelain slip will produce one-third more pieces than a gallon of ceramic slip.
Temperature.
A kiln capable of reaching a temperature of 2250 degrees (cone 6) is necessary to fire porcelain.
Brief description
Porcelain is composed of a blend of kaolins, china clays, ball clays and feldspars
Preventing sagging
You can help prevent porcelain cups from going out of shape during the firing by kiln washing the rims and placing one cup on top of the other, rims together and handles opposite for balance.
Position in kiln
Porcelain pieces should be kept at least two inches from the side walls or elements of your kiln during firing.
Stilting
Porcelain pieces cannot be stilted when fired, and pieces cannot touch each other since the high temperature will make them stick together. Your kiln shelves must have an adequate covering of kiln wash as well to keep them from sticking.
Props
Pieces of porcelain that have a heavy handle or a overhang must have a support or prop. This can be made from some spare trimmings during the casting. Make sure it is the right height and kiln wash any points that will be touching your pieces.
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| Guru Spotlight |
| Jolyn Wells-Moran |
