Smoke Fired Pottery: The Process

     Smoke firing, or pit firing, is an alternative firing process for pottery referring to an open fire, often without a kiln-like structure.

The pit I use is lined with brick.Pit fired pottery is unglazed and fired at a low temperature, making it porous and not watertight.

The colors on pit fired pottery are not fused in a glass, as they are in a glaze. This technique predates the development of glazes and is often used in primitive societies.

The beauty of these pots is created by fire and smoke. The colors could fade if placed in direct sunlight for long periods.

Here is a look at my pit firing process:

Preparing the pots for the pit. I wrap them in newspaper with copper, salts, and other materials.

Put the pots in...

...and burn it for several hours. Then, cover it for a few days...

Come back and take a peek...

Dig the pots out of the ashes (careful... still kinda warm!)...

Clean 'em up!

And finally get a look at the beautiful thing you made!

This process is quite lengthy and a bit unpredictable. Every firing is different, making each piece 100% unique!