KILN SET UP
Well, now you have your kiln and you want to start fusing.
1. Set up on a bench or non-flammable surface at least 18" away from any wall.
2. Low enough to look into without being awkward to lift off the lid and check on your work.
3. NO EXTENSION CORDS. You will not get a true ramp up reading of temps if not directly plugged into the wall. It is also dangerous.
Ok, now you found your spot and you have everything plugged in. As a safety precaution I always remove plug from wall when not in use, just in case.
DON'T TURN ON YET ! WE STILL HAVE THINGS TO DO.
Purchase Hi-Temp Kiln Wash and a Haik brush
1. You have to put the kiln wash on your shelf. Follow instructions for mixing. Hi-Fire kiln wash recommended. Instead of the 5:1 mix my teacher suggested a 4:1 mix. Use a plastic container you can close and shake as it does not go bad.
2. Use the haik brush to liberally paint the shelf. First one direction thenchange directions.
3. You also should apply kiln wash to the bottom only of your kiln in case any glass drops onto the bricks. Evidently it can eat away at your fire brick if you do not protect it.
Put at least 5 coats. This should be good for about 4-5 firings. You do not want wash to come off onto the back of your pieces or you will be grinding it off.
When your wash starts to lift off after so many firings, scrap with scrapper off and re-apply coats.
OK now we are ready with our shelf.
Lets talk about glass