Teaching Ceramics in the Classroom

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Is it safe?

Clays and glazes are delivered from natural pigments and materials. These days, commercially produced wet glazes and clay bodies tend to use fritted components, this means that any toxic elements have been encapsulated to greatly reduced hazards.

We have Safety Data Sheets for all our clays and glazes which include references to specific dangers on the glaze labels where legally required.

Using a kiln for the first time?

There's no need to worry about firing a kiln. Kilns are very safe when used in the proper manner.

- Follow the kiln manufactures instructions and ensure correct installation

- Vent kilns properly. All kilns should be vented to the outside because gases are released during the firing process, some of which may be irritating to the body. Any gases which are released into the atmostphere are hugely diluted.

- Light a match in front of the kiln's hood. If the system is working properly, the hood draw should blow the match out

- Always turn on your kiln hood or vent prior to loading to prevent cermamic glaze dust exposure

- Maintain your kiln

Programming your controller?

If you need advice on how to programme a new or old controller then please give us a call and we'll talk you through the process. We will even send someone to help you if we can. When you buy a new kiln from Specialist Crafts we can offer a programming service. Please call us for more details on 0116 269 7711.