Expert: Leisha Hiester - 7/24/2009

Question
Hi there:

I make quite a few tiles at a time, as I make wall murals, fireplace backgrounds, etc.  Usually I am working with 6x6" tiles, so there is not a lot of room on a kiln shelf to place them flat and would likely only fit about 3 on a shelf that way if I'm also trying to squeeze room for stilts to the next shelves above.

Do you have any suggestions as to the best stilt systems to be able to fire more glazed tiles at a time without risking their sticking to the stilts?  I've tried the type that look like you are stacking dishes upright, but as they slightly lean backward, their front bottom glazed tip cannot help but touch the stilt.

It's very frustrating!  LOL!

Any help or advice would sure be appreciated!

Thank you

Answer
Dee,
Have you tried the stacking systems made especially for tiles? Here's an example;

Bailey Pottery carries them or I'm sure your local supplier can get them for you.

Stacking Tile Holders
Clever design can accommodate any size square or rectangular tile. Corners are keyed to lock into each other when stacked for added stability (manufacturer recommends stacking no more than 6 layers high). Can be fired as high as Cone 6(*). Each corner measures 1-7/8” x 1-7/8” x 7/8” High and can hold tiles up to 1/4 “ thick.

C-179-21
Stacking Tile Holders
$1.72 per corner (4 corners required per tile)