When the trimmed pots are bone dry, they are placed in a gas or electric kiln for bisque firing.
When the trimmed pots are bone dry, they are placed in a gas or electric kiln for bisque firing. Depending on the type of clay used, this initial firing will be from 1800 to 2300 degrees Fahrenheit. The kiln may take a day or more to cool. The pots, now called bisqueware, are hard and relatively strong after this initial firing. Note that during the firing, the pot may shrink as much as 15%. It’s important for the potter to plan ahead!