ENAMELING KILNS

Kilns from every manufacturer are configured with features that allow for different types of functions. These features are available in fiber and brick models. Consider these options:

Top Load Kilns: Ideal for jewelry makers and projects involving powders and frit. Provides good visibility but may be challenging if you’re looking for a deeper kiln or have shorter arms.

Front Load Kilns: Suitable for tasks like enameling and hot manipulations. Offers control and less direct heat, but can be more expensive and require some lifting. This is also true for the weight on the shelf and placing it in front of you.

Clam Shell Kilns: Combines top and front loading, these types of kilns really delivers the best of both worlds; accessibility and free access to your shelf, in addition to ease of loading, and convenience, but may come at a higher cost.

Flip Doors (aka; Punty Doors, Bead Doors, Doggie Doors): Essential for preheating rods and quick bead placement. However, they may affect efficiency and temperature reach.

Windows (aka; quartz portholes): These are not the same as vent holes or peep holes. Optional quartz portholes for monitoring projects at peak temperatures, especially helpful for slumping, draping, or drop ring project. A window will also allow you to check the progress of a pot melt/aperture pour or screen melt.

What kind of projects would you like to do?

The type, size, and kiln features you require are determined by the projects you choose. This covers things like firing techniques, loading systems, building components, voltage, controllers, and more. Your response may help to clarify your preferences, but you should also consider how well your preferences match with your current circumstances.

Where will you be locating the kiln?
The kind, dimension, and features of your kiln are influenced by where it is. Environment, power supply, safety, and space availability are all important considerations. Your desires might not always line up perfectly with the constraints of your surroundings, this is where we as artists must become creative problem solvers in an effort to overcome our environmental constraints.

We're here to support you. Please reach out if you need any additional advice!

Here are some basic guidelines about locating your kiln:

• Make sure you have adequate space... at least 12 - 18 inches of space between the kiln and the wall. (However, for operator comfort, allow room to walk around the kiln if maintenance is required.) It is recommended that the unit be placed on a stand on top of flame-resistant flooring like a cement floor or board.
• Make sure the area is really clean - remove all flammable or combustible materials such as curtains, plastics, rags, paper, packing materials, etc. from the area surrounding the kiln.
• Make sure the area is well ventilated – proper air exchange is necessary for you kiln to last a long time. Heat from the kiln and outside air can accumulate in restricted areas above both gas and electric kilns.
• Make sure that the heat has somewhere to go, and is replaced by fresh cooler air. Set up a fan near the area, or open a window to ensure good air exchange. Check all local requirements or codes before installation.

IMPORTANT: Always read your owners manual and follow you kiln manufacturer's instructions.