Expert: Leisha Hiester - 12/11/2008

Question
need to know what # cones to fire differt:greenware, glaze, paint, gold,silver,decals and mother of pearl. also how long to fire each one. would really appreciate help

Answer
Willie,

I'm assuming you're referring to earthenware or low fire clay greenware. If not, let me know and I'll adjust my answer.

Most greenware fires at Cone 04
Most glazes fire at Cone 06, but check the glaze bottle to be sure.
Paint? you would not want to fire in your kiln at all.

Silver, decals and mother of pearl are generally fired in a 3rd firing over top of a clear or your gloss glaze. They get fired at a much lower temperature.

Most silver or white gold gets fired to cone 019-018.
Mother of Pearl to 020

Here's a site that will give you much more information, including steps on firing decals. Hope this was helpful. Leisha