Electric Kiln Ceramics

Over the last decade, the safety, convenience, and economy of the electric kiln have made it extremely popular for the home studio. Electric Kiln Ceramics,Second Edition, contains information for the potter available nowhere else: an exhaustive review of clays, glazes, and techniques developed exclusively for use in the electric kiln.

Electric Kiln Ceramics begins with an introduction to the electric kiln and the various clays and glazes best suited to its use. Both commercial and homemade clays and glazes are discussed, and recipes are provided for slips and glazes for different firing temperatures. Special glazes (wood ash: majolica, tzu chou, and crystal glazes ), the application of oxidation surfaces (intaglio glazing, painting, wax resist, and sgraffito methods ), and loading and firing are also explored in depth.

This second edition provides state-of-the-art health and safety information. AII-new photography showcases the work of artists from around the world with more than 200 color and black-and-white exam-ples of contemporary electric-fired work. Also included are the history of the electric kiln, how to purchase or build your own kiln, and advice on routine maintenance.

This inclusive guide will assist you in using the electric kiln to produce clear, brilliant colors and richly textured surfaces. Provides you with completely revised glaze recipes, information on commercial glaze for low fire and updated health and safety information.
Richard Zakin has repeatedly stretched the capabilities of oxidation fire, not only as an artist, but as an investigator. He demonstrates in this book that the electric kiln potter can obtain clear, brilliant colors, richly textures surfaces, and complete control over a range of effects. He supports the assertions through compounds, formulas, and examples to produce the most thorough reference ever published on the silent fire.

Zakin is a professor of art at the State University of New York as Oswego, and is a prolific writer, highly regarded for his technical articles.