I offer "Introduction to Wood Firing" workshops for folks who are new or fairly new to the process.  I also lead more advanced workshops for people
who would like to broaden
their knowledge and
experience or, if there is sufficient interest, explore a specific technique.  Reduction cooling/down firing and
extended firings are possibilities (at additional cost.)

About six weeks before our firing, we meet just outside Washington, DC
to discuss the
types of pots that lend
themselves to wood kilns.
We also cover glazes, suggested clays, stains, and slips. Then we will all begin making pots wherever we regularly work.

The size of a group is 8 participants.  This would be at a cost of $225/person and would allow you to fire enough pots to cover, with overhangs, a template 24" x 24" with a height not to exceed 8 1/2 inches.  A small number of larger pots my be brought to fill in space on the top tiers.  Pots may be tumble stacked or, as in the case of plates, wadded and stacked on top of one another. In every firing, I include two or three of my own small pots.  That way, I have an even greater incentive to conduct a proper firing.

  The price of participation covers an introductory session (or phone conversation with out-of-town guests), wadding, wood, firing, glazes (if necessary) a fully instuctional 3 days of work, an extensive brochure, plus tea and coffee.  You should bring your own lunch.   The kiln area will be fully prepared for our workshop and all kiln furniture will be meticulously prepped.

After our pots are bisqued (your responsibility), we will transport them to the very scenic and rural kiln site for kiln loading.  All pariticants should arrive with pots fully glazed (if possible....if not, limited/excellent glazes will be available), wadded, and prepped for loading.  People who are unsure of the method for wadding a particular piece should take care of that process with my help when you arrive.  The next day we will fire and then, two days later, will unload and discuss our work.

This is a totally "hands on" experience and you will be able to take part in as many aspects of the process as you are comfortable with.  With my help and direction, when the workshop is over you will have a body of work that you wood fired and can take responsibility for.

Every aspect of firing, including wood prep and shelf maintenance will be covered and attended to.

All workshop participants will be required to sign a liability waiver releasing both the kiln site and me for injuries incurred during the workshop.

Workshops will begin again in February, 2012 (Intro Session) and will fill on a first come basis.

The December, 2012, firing is full.

Please contact me so that we can discuss the upcoming workshops in more detail.

THIS IS AN EDUCATIONAL 
PROGRAM FOR POTTERS OF ALL LEVELS.  FEEL FREE TO DISCUSS YOUR  EXPERIENCE WITH ME WHEN WE SPEAK.

Some of my favorite clay bodies are Phoenix, Standard #470, Orangestone, and Loafers Glory.

If you some favorites, please let me know prior to beginning work.

You may also contact::

www.monocacyriverpottery.com

or

If you live somewhere in the Midwest, contact:

www.monocacypottery.com


***

THANK YOU FOR YOUR INTEREST AND FEEL FREE TO CONTACT ME WITH QUESTIONS OF ANY KIND.

(301) 646-3481 
or

sailoor47@aol.com

 

Beginning in 2012, I am going to offer a couple of wood firing workshops that include the digging and processing of natually occurring local clays so that you will be able to include some pots made with this material in your firing.This will be offered to advanced students only.