Welcome to this course on the fundamentals of wood-fire kiln building. Over our time together, we will explore the essential knowledge needed to understand how wood-fired kilns are conceived, designed, and constructed. This class is not focused on mastering every historical style or advanced firing philosophy; instead, it offers a practical, grounded overview of the key principles that support any successful kiln build. Our aim is to provide you with a clear framework so that, whether you eventually build a kiln yourself or simply want to deepen your understanding, you will be able to approach the process with confidence rather than mystery.
Throughout the course, we will look closely at how wood-fire kilns function, what roles their main components play, and why certain design choices matter. We will discuss the purpose of the firebox, the logic behind different chamber shapes, the way chimneys influence airflow, and the relationship between structure, heat, and fuel. You will learn what materials are typically used, how they perform under extreme temperatures, and what factors influence their selection. Rather than getting lost in technical rabbit holes, we will focus on the essential concepts that allow you to read kiln plans, understand diagrams, and recognize the reasoning behind practical decisions.
We will also explore the broader considerations involved in planning a kiln: how location and environment affect performance, what basic safety and logistical needs must be addressed, and how builders evaluate durability, efficiency, and ease of use. By understanding these foundational ideas, you will be able to see how a kiln moves from a design on paper to a functioning structure, and you will gain an appreciation for the balance between tradition, engineering, and personal preference that shapes every kiln.
By the end of this course, you will have a clear, organized understanding of the core elements that define wood-fire kilns, the vocabulary used to describe them, and the essential decision-making process behind their construction. This introduction is meant to give you the solid footing needed to engage meaningfully with kiln builders, firing teams, and future hands-on projects. Whether your interest is practical, artistic, or conceptual, this course will equip you with the foundational knowledge to continue exploring the world of wood-fired kiln building with clarity and curiosity.
Welcome to this course on the fundamentals of wood-fire kiln building. Over our time together, we will explore the essential knowledge needed to understand how wood-fired kilns are conceived, designed, and constructed. This class is not focused on mastering every historical style or advanced firing philosophy; instead, it offers a practical, grounded overview of the key principles that support any successful kiln build. Our aim is to provide you with a clear framework so that, whether you eventually build a kiln yourself or simply want to deepen your understanding, you will be able to approach the process with confidence rather than mystery.
Throughout the course, we will look closely at how wood-fire kilns function, what roles their main components play, and why certain design choices matter. We will discuss the purpose of the firebox, the logic behind different chamber shapes, the way chimneys influence airflow, and the relationship between structure, heat, and fuel. You will learn what materials are typically used, how they perform under extreme temperatures, and what factors influence their selection. Rather than getting lost in technical rabbit holes, we will focus on the essential concepts that allow you to read kiln plans, understand diagrams, and recognize the reasoning behind practical decisions.
We will also explore the broader considerations involved in planning a kiln: how location and environment affect performance, what basic safety and logistical needs must be addressed, and how builders evaluate durability, efficiency, and ease of use. By understanding these foundational ideas, you will be able to see how a kiln moves from a design on paper to a functioning structure, and you will gain an appreciation for the balance between tradition, engineering, and personal preference that shapes every kiln.
By the end of this course, you will have a clear, organized understanding of the core elements that define wood-fire kilns, the vocabulary used to describe them, and the essential decision-making process behind their construction. This introduction is meant to give you the solid footing needed to engage meaningfully with kiln builders, firing teams, and future hands-on projects. Whether your interest is practical, artistic, or conceptual, this course will equip you with the foundational knowledge to continue exploring the world of wood-fired kiln building with clarity and curiosity.
