Howdy Potters,
A few mini updates for you all!
Kiln Wash on Pot Bottoms
We’ve noticed kiln wash sticking to the bottoms of pots more frequently lately, likely due to our firing temperature increasing from cone 5 to cone 6. The kiln team is working behind the scenes to minimize this where possible.
In the meantime, I’ve purchased diamond sanding pads so members can clean up any kiln wash stuck to their pots (it comes off pretty easily). You’ll find them on the kiln rejection shelf across from the wheels.
A note on safe sanding: Always sand under running water, or submerge your piece in a throwing bowl filled with water. Clay contains silica, which is harmful when inhaled — never sand dry clay or bisqueware inside the studio.
These pads can also be used to clean up small glaze runs.
Diamond Sanding Disc
I’ve also added a diamond sanding disc mounted to a bat, located on the same shelf. Place it on your wheel head like a normal bat and use the wheel’s rotation to help grind down the bottom of your pot. It’s a great tool for cleaning up pot bottoms. Please follow these safety rules when using it:
- Always use water. Continually add water to both the disc and your piece throughout the entire sanding process. Never use the disc dry.
- Use your splash guard. Keep your wheel’s splash guard up to contain the water and clay slurry during sanding.
- No dry sanding, ever. Clay dust contains silica, which is a serious respiratory hazard. If the disc or your piece looks dry, stop and add more water immediately.
- Clean up after yourself. Rinse the disc and bat, wipe down your wheel, and dispose of any slurry down the slop sink when you’re done.
Failure to follow these rules will result in the disc being removed from the studio.
Temporary Drying Shelf
I’ve added a temporary drying shelf near the wheels to help reduce the need to book a table while you’re throwing. You’re welcome to store pieces thrown during your active booking on this shelf.
Important: All pieces must be moved to your personal member shelf before you leave. Any work left behind will be considered abandoned and discarded. As always, please be mindful of others’ work and be kind and respectful when sharing the space.
Happy throwing! 