217 Introduction to Wood Firing/ Soda Firing

217 Introduction to Wood Firing/ Soda Firing

Class - Ceramics | This class is completed

251 N Spruce St. Winston-Salem, NC 27101 United States
Wheelthrowing - Ceramics
Beginning and Intermediate
7/11/2024-8/29/2024
6:30 PM-9:00 PM EDT on Th
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$333.00
$299.70
$30.00
$60.00

217 Introduction to Wood Firing/ Soda Firing

Class - Ceramics | This class is completed

This is an introductory class to Cone 10 wood & soda firing with an emphasis on wheel throwing combined with some handbuilt elements.


Participants will develop an understanding of the unique qualities and processes of using wood and soda vapor to fire ceramics. During the firings, the draft created by the chimney pulls wood ash and sodium (soda) vapors through out the kiln. The wood ash and sodium deposited on the ceramics interacting with silica and other minerals from the clay creates a varied palette of colors and textures not achievable in any other way. 

Before the firing, students will explore the creative possibilities of clay through wheel throwing techniques. Some handbuilt elements will be introduced to enhance wheel thrown forms. Students with more experience can refine their skills while exploring new forms and design options. Decorating and glazing techniques for atmospheric firing will also be explored.

The studio instructions are held on 7/11, 7/18, 7/25, 8/1, and 8/8. The firing is scheduled on 9/20, 9/21, and 9/22. Ages: 18 - Adult

Students will learn how to embellish their pieces using slips (liquid clay) and glazes formulated for wood firing. Enrolled students are given access to open studio hours to work outside of class time.

 


  • Students will take an active roll in helping load and fire the kiln at the end of the session.

    Students will also be expected to spend some weekend time at the wood kiln helping to prepare for firings by splitting and stacking wood and will take an active role in working firing shifts in teams with more experienced students to experience this exciting and unique process.




  • A $60 material fee for the first 25 pounds of stoneware clay and related glazes and wood firing will be added at time of checkout. Porcelain clay excluded.

Lassiter, Clyde
Clyde Lassiter

Clyde became “completely fascinated with the potter's wheel in 1972 and that fascination continues to this day”. He has spent many years making pots in his own studio while working a career in public service and raising a family. Clyde has taught at Sawtooth since 1992 and hopes to guide students to “find a technique that works for them, not just the way I do things.”