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Step 1
Prepare your kiln. Make sure that any debris from previous firings has been removed, including any material used to prop your pieces.
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Step 2
Inspect your pottery. Make sure the ceramic pieces you are about to load are dry. Check that the piece is in good condition with no visible fractures or cracks. One broken piece can ruin an entire kiln.
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Step 3
Maximize the amount of pottery that enters the kiln. You can create multiple levels separated by cordierite (or other kiln-safe material) shelves and pillars of varying heights. Choose pieces to load based on height. Load tall pieces on one level, and shorter pieces on another. If you have items of different sizes, split the shelves to maximize space.
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Step 4
If your pieces are glazed, use a metal stilt to support your ceramics; setting it on a shelf will fuse the piece right to it. For pieces with wider bases, use a wider stilt, which can prevent your piece from tipping. If your piece does not have a flat bottom, and is not easily supported with a single stilt, use multipoint stilts for support. If you have an item that is not glazed on the bottom, set it directly on the shelf or use a triangle stilt to support your piece.
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Step 5
Let your pottery breathe. In order for the heat to properly fire your ceramic pieces, make sure your pieces are at least 2 inches apart, and leave a few inches of room at the top of each level for the heat to pass evenly throughout the kiln.
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Step 6
Make sure your kiln settings are correct. Set the timer on the kiln appropriately for the material you are firing. Make sure you have the correct cone in your kiln. Depending on the model, you may have to insert the cone before you load your pieces. Don't leave a kiln unattended unless it is in a fireproof area with proper ventilation. Let the pieces to cool completely before you remove them.
