FAmina Major

<p>Welcome to Part 3 of our exploration into the primary components of ceramic glazes! In our previous articles we covered the role of glass-formers and fluxes,and today we’re going to examine another fundamental aspect of glaze chemistry: stabilizers. Also known as refractories,we’ll explore the importance,types,and impact these materials have on the development of your glazes.&nbsp;</p>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">The Role of Stabilizers</h1>



<p>Refractories or stabilizers are perhaps best thought of as the counterpart to fluxes. Where the flux lowers the melting point of the glass-former,the stabilizer helps moderate that melt so that your glaze does not simply run off your pot. It’s a stiffener,controlling the fluidity of your melting glaze.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Stabilizers also play a vital role in increasing the strength of our glazes,being <a href="https://digitalfire.com/oxide/al2o3">the primary source of durability in glaze</a>. They reduce thermal expansion,and increase the glaze’s resistance to acid and other chemicals.</p>



<p>As a general rule,the more stabilizer in your recipe,the higher the melting point,and therefore the higher the firing temperature.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image is-resized is-style-default"><img src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXczJL1xw_7MuVwZwVPS1v78pQ7xDDj-APIidalEDC9stxJOv7sYfpnlnGj0XrblvCIx3A8485YZWuLOgjbUmrXE-rPldAhwRQOZNZhGiRmnR7ey82ZkSxoIiHowuOPHacbx6pfjI_qnMGGQVaPemRPuwLZt?key=JJrpbzk93jZa8lalboBd7Q" alt="" style="width:493px;height:auto"/></figure>



<p><a href="https://www.hn-huixin.com/show-8-8-1.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alumina in its raw state</a></p>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Sourcing Refractories in Glaze</h1>



<p>Just like with our glass-former,our stabilizer is primarily sourced by one oxide. In this case we’re talking about alumina,or Al<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub>. Let’s have a closer look:</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Alumina (Aluminum Oxide),Al<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub></h2>



<p>This material is considered an intermediate oxide because it <a href="https://digitalfire.com/oxide/al2o3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">helps build strong chemical links between fluxes and SiO2</a>. It also helps to prevent crystallization in glazes,providing the levels of certain fluxes are not too high. </p>



<p>Interestingly,knowing the ratio of alumina to silica in your glaze can help you predict the surface quality of your glaze. A ratio of 1:5 will give a matte glaze and a ratio of 1:8 gives a glossy glaze,with satin glazes lying in the middle.&nbsp;</p>



<p>So what materials do we use for alumina? You may have noticed alumina or alumina hydrate available at ceramic suppliers,but we don’t actually tend to use these raw forms in our glazes very often. This is because in this form <a href="https://digitalfire.com/oxide/al2o3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">it doesn’t melt well enough to yield its oxides</a>. These materials are more commonly used for making kiln wash. </p>



<p>For the purpose of our glazes,we source our aluminum oxide from several of the same materials that provide our silica or our flux. These include clays such as kaolin,feldspars such as nepheline syenite,and frits. </p>



<p>These materials are a better source of Al<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3 </sub>because the oxide is already bound to silica particles,allowing it to better melt into the glaze. </p>



<p>Considering their vital role,becoming familiar with stabilizers is much easier than understanding your fluxes,because there’s only one oxide you need to recognize. The only real challenge here is learning how much each source material is providing. To help with this,we recommend having a look at material resources such as <a href="https://digitalfire.com/material/list" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Digital Fire</a> or <a href="https://glazy.org/materials" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Glazy</a>,that have searchable material databases that list the chemical makeup of ceramic materials. As a mini challenge,why not look up the following materials: Kaolin,Nepheline Syenite,and Custer Feldspar. Which has the highest amount of alumina,and which has the lowest? And as a bonus,what other components are they contributing?</p>



<p>Just as glass-formers and fluxes lay the groundwork for glaze chemistry,stabilizers play an equally vital role in shaping the final outcome of our recipes. With today’s article we’ve uncovered the significance of aluminum oxide in providing stability,durability,and unique aesthetic qualities to ceramic glazes. And while this article rounds out our exploration of the three primary components of glaze formation,we’re not quite finished with this series just yet. Be sure to check back soon for Part 4,where we’ll look at an essential component in the aesthetic quality of our glazes: colorants!&nbsp;</p>



<p>We have a wide variety of workshops available covering all aspects of glazing and surface decoration. If you would like to elevate your skills in this area,<a href="https://staging.ceramic.school/online-glazing-workshops/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">be sure to check them out today</a>!</p>

Understanding Glaze Components Part 3: Stabilizers

hhh



<p>Absolutely! Here’s a friendly,engaging blog post you can use for your <strong>Get Well Soon Air-Dry Clay Card Project</strong>:</p>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">DIY Get Well Soon Cards with Air-Dry Clay — 3 Easy &amp; Adorable Ideas!</h2>



<p>Everyone loves a handmade card — and when someone’s feeling under the weather,a cute and creative get well soon card can really brighten their day! Today,I’m sharing <strong>three simple and fun card ideas</strong> you can make with <strong>air-dry clay</strong>,perfect for kids and beginners. These projects are quick,easy,and will leave you with a unique card that feels extra special.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">✨ What You’ll Need:</h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Air-dry clay</li>



<li>Acrylic paint or acrylic markers</li>



<li>A toothpick or clay knife</li>



<li>String or twine</li>



<li>Paper cards (store-bought or handmade)</li>



<li>Glue</li>



<li>Optional: Templates (you can download mine,or just freestyle!)</li>
</ul>



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">1. <strong>Teabag Card</strong> ☕</h3>



<p>This little teabag card is sweet and cozy — perfect for wishing someone comfort.</p>



<p><strong>How to make it:</strong></p>



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Start by softening your clay. You can either roll it out with a rolling pin or press it flat with your fingers.</li>



<li>Cut out a simple teabag shape and a small tag (use my template or freehand it!).</li>



<li>Use a toothpick or knife to carefully carve a line across the teabag to show the fold.</li>



<li>Poke one small hole in the top of the teabag and one in the tag.</li>



<li>Let both pieces dry completely.</li>



<li>Once dry,paint the “tea” part in brown or green and add a cute little face if you like!</li>



<li>Tie the tag and teabag together with a piece of string and glue them onto your card.</li>



<li>Add a sweet message like “Sending you a warm cup of comfort!”</li>
</ol>



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">2. <strong>Bandaid Card</strong> </h3>



<p>This one’s playful and simple — a little clay bandaid to show you care.</p>



<p><strong>How to make it:</strong></p>



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Knead your clay and flatten it into a smooth slab.</li>



<li>Cut out a bandaid shape (you can use my template or just shape it by hand!).</li>



<li>Use a toothpick to make tiny holes along the edges for that classic bandaid look.</li>



<li>Let it dry completely.</li>



<li>Once dry,paint it a light pink or beige and add cute little eyes and a smile!</li>



<li>Glue the bandaid onto your card and write something cheerful like “Hope you’re on the mend!”</li>
</ol>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">3. <strong>Tissue Box Card</strong> </h3>



<p>Nothing says “get better soon” like a tissue box! This little detail is adorable and easy to make.</p>



<p><strong>How to make it:</strong></p>



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Roll out your clay and cut out a small rectangle for the tissue box.</li>



<li>Use a toothpick or knife to make a little slit in the center.</li>



<li>Let it dry completely.</li>



<li>Once dry,paint the box in bright,happy colors and add simple patterns if you’d like.</li>



<li>Glue the tissue box onto your card,and gently pull a tiny piece of tissue through the slit so it looks like a real tissue!</li>



<li>Write a cute message like “Sending hugs and tissues!”</li>
</ol>



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">⭐ Tips for Success:</h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Don’t worry if the clay cracks a little — that’s normal! You can sand it gently or leave it for a handmade look.</li>



<li>If you don’t want to use templates,these shapes are simple enough to freestyle!</li>



<li>Let everything dry fully before gluing onto your card.</li>



<li>Have fun adding faces,blush,and sweet details to make each piece extra cute!</li>
</ul>



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">💌 Final Thoughts</h3>



<p>These little get well soon cards are such a joyful way to show someone you care. They’re simple,fun,and so personal — and kids will love making them too! Whether it’s the teabag,bandaid,or tissue box,each one is sure to bring a smile.</p>



<p></p>



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<p></p>

Get Well Soon

<p>If you’ve been interested in exploring the world of ceramic firing beyond the trusty electric kiln,then you are in the right place! In this three-part series,we’re embarking on a journey into the fundamentals of fuel-burning kilns. In Part 1 of this series we looked at the types of effects made possible by fuel-powered kilns,followed by Part 2,where we delved into the types of fuels commonly used in these kilns. In today’s post,we’re going to cover the three main types of fuel-burning kilns: down-draft,updraft,and cross draft. Join us as we unravel the intricacies of each kiln type,uncovering how they function,as well as their unique advantages and challenges. Whether you're a seasoned potter or a curious newcomer,prepare to stoke the flames of your ceramic practice in this exploration of kiln technology.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignleft"><a href="https://www.thesprucecrafts.com/what-kind-of-kiln-is-it-2746127"><img src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXdQOdIXf-v_2a83lwhX6N78uy1ud7zby97n5n1xG7aXGUF_gf0W2O6nHZSfPB9rivoxFv-_xsf-d-OedvSYyrtqN13BkQjJ1Un0ov92uqFIjAUBQvzoVMuHYU9uPHo0uUiVmg7MbWv5orWeEQXvCnjaHtQ?key=CPuHMl5fTaE2rDoc9kUhuA" alt=""/></a></figure>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Basic Construction Types</h1>



<p>Before we jump into the interior designs that define these kiln types,let's have a quick look at the two most common exterior shapes you’ll come across.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Fuel-burning kilns are generally constructed with either a sprung arch or a cantenary arch. Cantenary arches are self-supporting and form both the walls and the roof of the kiln in a single arch of bricks with sloping sides. Sprung arch kilns consist of a brick arch that is built on top of straight walls. While this arch is technically self-supporting,it exerts a lot of downward force,which risks movement over time. For this reason,sprung arches require the addition of an external metal frame to hold them in place.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Both types of arches are constructed with the aid of a removable form (usually made out of wood),and both designs have their benefits and drawbacks. The cantenary arch creates a strong form that doesn’t require additional materials for support or strength,but its tapered walls can make it more challenging to load efficiently. On the other hand,while the sprung arch design requires a more complex construction,its straight walls make it easier to load. <a href="https://www.thesprucecrafts.com/what-kind-of-kiln-is-it-2746127">In the US,the sprung arch design is most common.</a></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image is-resized"><img src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXffAguwyLAFvONxF8Sx_xNkhldJVCADz00TJvOMLfORDVglmanchVBCM99RkNLTMKUzi91aCIJWcx-OGh6q3xz3fA_ajic-qm8KDcqlc4QWD6ksAgH15muEeTnBcQe7Tvpyuy0qtbTWnshfNHGlpPfpSfws?key=CPuHMl5fTaE2rDoc9kUhuA" alt="" style="width:606px;height:auto"/></figure>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Downdraft</h1>



<p>Downdraft kilns work by introducing heat through fireboxes located at the bottom sides of the kiln. The heat first moves upwards along the sides of the kiln where it builds up at the top,and then is pulled back down through the wares due to the draw from a flue located under the base shelf of the kiln. From here&nbsp; it travels up the chimney (located at the back of the kiln) and out of the kiln.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The draw of the chimney and flue is controlled by a damper (usually made from part of a kiln shelf or other refractory material). This slides in and out of a slot in the chimney,which restricts or increases the amount of airflow,in turn impacting the amount of reduction or oxidation occurring in the kiln. The more open the damper,the more oxygen enters the kiln.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Advantages &amp; Disadvantages</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-full"><a href="https://www.glendale.edu/academics/academic-divisions/visual-performing-arts-division/ceramics/study-guides/kilns "><img src="https://staging.ceramic.school/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/kiln3.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-167231"/></a></figure>



<p>Downdraft <a href="https://potteryclaythailand.com/en/blogs/knowledge-base/%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%B9%E0%B9%89%E0%B8%88%E0%B8%B1%E0%B8%81%E0%B8%98%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%A1%E0%B8%8A%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%95%E0%B8%B4%E0%B8%82%E0%B8%AD%E0%B8%87%E0%B9%80%E0%B8%95%E0%B8%B2%E0%B9%80%E0%B8%9C%E0%B8%B2#:~:text=Downdraft%20kiln%20takes%20longer%20to,nozzles%20the%20more%20detailed%20control.">kilns take longer to fire than updraft kilns</a> but they create a more uniform heat and are easier to control. This makes them excellent for firing larger pieces. They are also very efficient at reaching high stoneware and porcelain temperatures.</p>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Updraft</h1>



<p>As you might have guessed,updraft kilns work by pulling the heat upwards through the kiln,rather than upwards then downwards,like our downdraft. With updraft kilns,the fireboxes are usually placed around the base of the kiln,and instead of directing the flame up the interior walls,they direct it beneath the stack of kiln shelves,in the bottom center of the kiln. From here it travels upwards through the wares,aided by both the natural tendency of heat to rise,as well at the top positioning of the chimney which draws the air up and out. This design has the same damper mechanism as the downdraft to help control the kiln’s atmosphere.</p>



<p>Updraft kilns can be designed with either the sprung arch or cantenary arch,but the most iconic updraft design (especially for industrial purposes) is the bottle kiln. These kilns are shaped just as their name suggests,with a cylindrical body that tapers into a neck at the chimney.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Advantages &amp; Disadvantages</h2>



<p>Updraft kilns are much simpler to design and build than their downdraft counterparts,but they do have a reputation for heating unevenly and being inefficient in their fuel usage. The heating situation can be used to your advantage once you learn the quirks of your specific kiln,however. By strategically placing pots in different areas of the kiln,you can achieve different effects in a single firing.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image is-resized"><a href="https://www.schule-im-aufbruch.at/?u=anagama-kiln-wikipedia-oo-1bR0VYh0"><img src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXfMpqgLwtRcyEUFN6t_JzNvHR_I_Tu3Ge2Y9QwFdMgkm8aYPYqzIBKJqJt3ObYuTswPJXSuv_oBXa6KJ5NclOM9vOl-pJ9C4j8QpjdxjciVbuaJtvQe00419CwL5E74u_BM1RN-ECjIRFxJSK8TQs0YPPI?key=CPuHMl5fTaE2rDoc9kUhuA" alt="" style="width:635px;height:auto"/></a></figure>



<p></p>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Cross Draft</h1>



<p>These kilns work by pulling the heat across the wares. The fuel enters (or is placed inside) one end of the kiln,and travels across the ware stack towards a flue at the opposite end,where it exits through the chimney. The placement of the firebox and chimney can be either at the front and back,or on the sides. What's important is that they are opposite each other. Like our other two kiln types,the atmosphere can be managed with a damper.</p>



<p>These kilns can also be built with our now-familiar arch types,but other unique kilns,such as anagama kilns,also fall into this category. With the anagama,the kiln is noticably longer than wide,and is built on the upward slope of a hill. The fuel (in this case wood) is added at the entrance,and travels both across the ware and up the slope towards the rear chimney.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Advantages &amp; Disadvantages</h2>



<p>The crossdraft kiln also has some unevenness when it comes to temperature distribution,with the front tending to be hotter than the rear. This of course can be used to your advantage. Overall it is more efficient than the updraft,being better at reaching stoneware and porcelain temperatures,just like the downdraft.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><a href="https://bpracticalpottery.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/kilns.png"><img src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXd6JxWS0zcMZtOc-B2VrvW65T9TBaIpWViOFi3p4vApj41Q3BGbwwwGyAXImN9Lo2UO4cHneKtgION13phlntCF1qHQdPcMJAYk2Gpbuzw7rWjQJJLcjlNIA09_0jNam0bwO2quvvpu_cpstubl33MagvkS?key=CPuHMl5fTaE2rDoc9kUhuA" alt=""/></a></figure>



<p>These three fuel-burning kiln types offer an amazing array of possibilities. From the intricate downdraft and straight-forward updraft,to the dynamic crossdraft,each style offers unique features and benefits. By pairing them with different fuel types,glazes,and firing techniques,you are sure to find exciting new avenues to explore in your work.&nbsp;</p>



<p>And as always,if you want to deepen your firing knowledge,be sure to check out some of our fantastic workshops!&nbsp; For a creative approach to kilns,we recommend <a href="https://staging.ceramic.school/courses/zhang-liming-how-to-make-a-kiln-out-of-clay/">Zhang Liming’s “How to Make a Kiln Out of Clay</a>” where you’ll discover a sculptural potential of kilns that you never even knew existed!</p>



<p></p>

Introduction to Fuel-Burning Kilns Part 3: Kiln Types

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-vimeo wp-block-embed-vimeo"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://player.vimeo.com/video/642815440?h=a55796bf6c&amp;color=00b3ef
</div></figure>



<p><a href="https://vimeo.com/642815440">Artist Talk: Courtney M. Leonard</a> from <a href="https://vimeo.com/mofafsu">Museum of Fine Arts</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</p>

film - Artist Talk with Courtney M. Leonard

<p>words go here</p>



<p>then maybe an image</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-style-default"><a href="https://staging.ceramic.school/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Screen-Shot-2022-04-13-at-12.04.21-PM.png"><img src="https://staging.ceramic.school/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Screen-Shot-2022-04-13-at-12.04.21-PM-1024x718.png" alt="" class="wp-image-86273"/></a></figure>

New Blog post title

<p>You can now submit blog posts to our blog!</p>
<p>Simply login to your <a href="https://staging.ceramic.school/login/">Ceramic School</a> account and then <a href="https://staging.ceramic.school/add-new-post/">Click Here</a> to submit your blog post :)</p>
<p>Awesome!</p>
<p>What kind of blog posts are we looking for?</p>
<p>We want to make this a space for the ceramics community,and we want to hear your voice!</p>
<p>We want to hear what you are interested in,<br />What ceramic artists inspire you,<br />Any tips or tricks you would like to share,<br />Any event reviews you have been to,<br />Or any events you have coming up,</p>

You can now submit blog posts to our blog!

<p><span class="””””"><span style="vertical-align: inherit"><span style="vertical-align: inherit">Мейсенский фарфор https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meissen_porcelain</span></span></span></p>
<p><span class="””””"><span style="vertical-align: inherit"><span style="vertical-align: inherit">Лладро https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lladr%C3%B3</span></span></span></p>
<p><span class="””””"><span style="vertical-align: inherit"><span style="vertical-align: inherit">Коллекция Франца https://www.instagram.com/franzcollectionusa/</span></span></span></p>
<p><span class="””””"><span style="vertical-align: inherit"><span style="vertical-align: inherit">Светлана Орешкина ://www.pinterest.com/ljiljanaozmec/porcelain-svetlana-ore%C5%A1kina-oreshkin/</span></span></span></p>
<p><span class="””””"><span style="vertical-align: inherit"><span style="vertical-align: inherit">Гармонии Вам!!</span></span></span></p>

Who do I look up to and take an example of

<p>We have three things you can join in for <a href="//new.ceramic.school/the-ceramics-congress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Ceramics Congress</a> - coming up in May 2022!</p>

<h2>1. Down Under Film Festival</h2>

<figure><a href="https://staging.ceramic.school/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/downunder-filmfest.jpeg"><img src="https://staging.ceramic.school/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/downunder-filmfest.jpeg" alt="" /></a></figure>

<p>Call out for short film and video submissions for The Ceramics Congress – Down Under Short Film Fest which will be presented during the Ceramics Congress May 2022 edition (May 26th-30th 2022).</p>

<p>It’s FREE to submit your video --&gt; <a href="https://staging.ceramic.school/callforentry/">https://staging.ceramic.school/callforentry/</a></p>

<h2>2. International Film Festival</h2>

<figure><a href="https://staging.ceramic.school/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/3-1-scaled.jpg"><img src="https://staging.ceramic.school/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/3-1-1024x1024.jpg" alt="" /></a></figure>

<p>This will be the very first Ceramics Congress juried Film Festival!</p>

<p>Our hope is to have a wealth of submissions from all over the world.</p>

<p>Have you got something you'd like to share with the ceramics community?</p>

<p>Read more --&gt; <a href="https://staging.ceramic.school/callforentry/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://staging.ceramic.school/callforentry/</a></p>

<h2>3. International Cat Show</h2>

<figure><a href="https://staging.ceramic.school/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/2-1-scaled.jpg"><img src="https://staging.ceramic.school/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/2-1-1024x1024.jpg" alt="" /></a></figure>

<p>This will be the very first Ceramics Congress juried exhibition!</p>

<p>All entries must be cat related somehow and be predominantly made out of clay to be considered. </p>

<p>Read more --&gt; <a href="https://staging.ceramic.school/callforentry/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://staging.ceramic.school/callforentry/</a></p>

All blog