2-Day Pit Firing Course

 

The workshop takes place at Patricia’s studio on the Giant's Causeway.

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Experience this ancient technique. Learn how to prepare your work, including various burnishing techniques, terra sigalatta, saggar making methods, gain experience in packing a pit, firing and how to finish pit fired pottery.

Taking home your own unique pieces from the pit.

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Bring your own work, approximately up to 1 grocery crate each* We will endeavour to fairly fit as much as we can into the pit, depending on what other participants bring.

There will be some wheel thrown, burnished and bisque fired pots from the studio if you wish to purchase them on the day for extras.

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Day 1 

9.30am meet for tea/coffee, scones

10am- 4.30pm workshop

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Beginning with a short introduction, Patricia will demonstrate how to wrap your pieces in a variety of saggars along with oxides & organics, explaining typical effects you may achieve and the science behind this ancient process.

You will be guided in preparing your own work with a choice of supplied organics, such as seaweed, pine needles etc

After a hearty, vegetarian lunch, you will learn how to pack and fire the pit. Guidance on achieving heat work and reduction. Health and safety around pit firing will also be highlighted.

The day finishes with clamming the pit. Patricia will tend it throughout the night.

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Day 2

9.30am meet for tea/coffee, scones

10am -4pm workshop

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The group returns for the big reveal! 

In this 2nd session you will unpack the pit. After a demonstration, you will set to clean-up your pieces.

After a break for a light lunch, you will finish the day by learning different techniques to seal your work. 

Finish is approximate, depending on how many items you have.

 

Includes

• At least 12 hours of pit fire tuition

• Pot preparation materials, including a selection of prepared seaweed, oxides, copper, wire wool, selection of organics

• Saggar making resources

• Fuel for Firing- wood shavings, hard wood logs

• Sealing wax

• Gloves 

• 2 Vegetarian lunches and unlimited tea/coffee/treats

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*Some tips for successful pit firing-

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• Bisque fire your own work to no more than 1000oC.

• Green ware will also work but has a much higher risk of breakage.

• Any clay is suitable.

• If possible, pieces should be burnished at the leather hard stage which will enhance the pit fire patina. On booking, you will receive guidance on pot preparation.

• Wheel thrown, hand built pots or sculptures are all suitable

• Be aware that breakages are inevitable! A range of shapes and sizes will increase your chances of  success. Flat pieces usually break...

• The pit measures 3' x 3' x 4' 

• Bring your own mask to use when handling oxides.

• Bring a woollen hat or scarf to protect your hair from the heat. wear loose, natural fibre clothing.

• If you have any special dried flowers or organics do bring them to include on your own saggar.

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*Unscheduled or larger private group bookings can be accommodated.

Please email directly or ring for your requirements