Strathnairn Arts Association

Kilns: Conditions of use

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Kilns are only available for hire by current financial members.

Booking of kilns

Kilns must be booked in advance in the Kiln Book located in the kitchen of the ceramic studios. Make sure you enter the packing, firing and unpacking times under the relevant days in the book along with a contact phone number.
The following kilns are all on one gas regulator - Morris, blackfire (large and small), large salt and small salt test. As a general rule they should not be fired at the same time.

Firing of kilns

1. Ensure you know what you are doing. If you are unsure, seek assistance from someone who does.
2. Complete a log for every firing, recording the start and finish meter reading, your name, date and kiln name. The Kiln Log Book is located in the Kiln Room. The Treasurer will invoice the user for kiln hire and electricity/gas used during the firing. Payments may be left with the Caretaker/Manager, Michael Sainsbury.
3. Be aware of safety: keep the area clean and uncluttered, do not store hazardous materials any longer than necessary, label all hazardous materials, keep ceramic fibre covered.
4. Provide your own equipment: including safety equipment. The Association does not provide gloves, goggles, masks, cones, axes, pyrometers (except for electric kilns), coffee or tea, phones etc.
5. Look after the equipment: shelves, props etc must be shared amongst all kilns and are very expensive to replace. Please be considerate when using this equipment, by:
   • Packing your kiln carefully to avoid causing damage such as cracked shelves, glaze transfer etc.
   • Unpacking your kiln as soon as possible so others may have access to the furniture.
   • Cleaning off any minor glaze spots on shelves etc promptly. A grinder and safety face shield has been provided for members use and is stored in the Kiln Room.
   • Replacing or paying for any furniture which as been rendered unusable by your mistake.
   • Using the appropriate furniture. Do not salt, blackfire or wood fire "clean" shelves or props as they cannot be used for other firings.
   • Respect other people's property, including private studios.
   • Leave kitchen tidy.
   • Use pyrometric cones. It is strongly recommended that you use cones because pyrometer readings may be wrong.