Raku First Run and Prep for Moose Camp

The last week afforded me some time to set up the Raku kiln. I created three batches of glaze: Simon Leach's Crackle, copper matte, and turquoise crackle. The firing was problematic with the kiln being stuck around 1730 degree Fahrenheit. The copper matte and Simon's crackle needed the 1850 mark.  However the turquoise came out, even though it is a great red color. After checking the great inter-web, I think my entry and exhaust port are too small, notice the orange flame in the exhaust port and flu. So, I will attempt another firing with a large exhaust port. Another theory is to back out the burner from the port so it can draw in secondary air for cleaner gas consumption. Yet another method is to turn the burner down, counter intuitive, but a common point many have made. So, here is what I did; exhaust port is 5 inches and entry port is 4 inches, leaving an inch of air to get in with the burner pulled away. If it is not windy tomorrow, then I will give another try.

Meanwhile, I am preparing for moose camp in a remote location in Alaska. At this point I am looking forward to spending some time in the woods with the objective of filling up the freezer with some moose meat. Getting ready for a wilderness hunting trip in Alaska is quite an endeavor. There is a lot that goes into having everything you need and flying it in with limits on weight.  Since we have been hunting and rafting throughout the state we have the quality gear and a gear list. The gear list is essential, it is continually being revised and tweaked every time we go out. The food prep is another ordeal in itself. With that I am off to prepare another meal.

Sheet Rock Hung and First Bisque at Home

The past two weeks were all about sea kayaking guiding in Kachemak Bay for True North Adventures and staying busy getting the studio ready for the winter. All of the framing, insulating, and sheet rock work are finished. It appears to me that most remodeling or basic construction always entails some problem solving. Today was the three-way switch that turned the outside lights to the garage and studio. A job that should take a half hour ended up being three. Got it right in the end.  Now I am awaiting the mud and taping to begin. The room is brighter and feels more open. I am sure the 10' by 20' space will fill up with equipment and pots in no time.

Finally, I cleared all the sheet rock from the garage bay next to the studio and was able to do my first bisque firing. Things are heating up. Looking forward to making some sample glaze tiles next and exploring some glaze possibilities. The next adventure will be making some mugs and bowls with the cone 6 clay using brittle star theme.

Studio is Framed In

A lot has been accomplished over the last week on the studio. It is framed in, thanks to the help of my good friend Pete Kramer. The next step is running the rest of the electrical wiring for the lights, then insulating and moving on to hanging the sheet rock. No pots have been thrown for the last week. Instead, I divide my time between kayak guiding and working on the studio.