You are here:

Ceramics/bisque firing

Advertisement

Expert: Rita Gillman(Clay-Ceramics expert.) - 9/7/2006


Question
What is the exact definition of bisque firing?  

Answer
Hello Sara,

 Bisque is the name given to "greenware" after it has been fired in a kiln for the first time.
 There are several kinds of bisque firings though.For example if you just want to paint your bisque with stains,you would fire the greenware to 06. This allows the paint to be absorbed easier due to the bisque being softer.You use less paint and will have less streaking.
 You can fire ceramic ware such as lamps etc. at 05,but I usually fire it to 04 if I am applying glazes, as you really want a difference of two cones between bisque and glazing.
 Dinnerware is fired to bisque at 04 since you will be firing the glaze usually at 06.
 Porcelain is usually fired to bisque at 4-6.
 Stoneware is 2-10.
I hope this helps you.Rita

Ceramics

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Rita Gillman(Clay-Ceramics expert.)

Expertise

I can answer questions about kilns,molds,tools,clay,slip,paints,overglazes,pottery wheels,porcelain,china painting,raku,working in glass,clay puzzling,brushes and many other areas of ceramics and clay,painting in oils and watercolors,chalks,and safety precautions.

Experience

I have been working in clay since I was 10 years old,almost 45 years ago.I repair my own 7 kilns,one which I built.I have helped other studio owners with numerous problems from kilns to slip.I repair antique porcelain dolls,teach classes in ceramics,wheel throwing,raku,clay puzzling and glass.I have taught china painting here and in Canada.I am a judge for several art events,teach the Bob Ross "wet on wet" technique on ceramics,and can fix just about any problem. I have my own studio and website and also belong to a private website for clay and pottery artists.

Organizations
American Fired Arts Alliance,International Ceramic Association,National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts,G.R.I.T.S. YA-YA's Ceramists.

Education/Credentials
Masters Degree in Fine Arts and certified teacher.

Awards and Honors
I usually do not enter my projects,however my students have taken many Peggy Awards,Freddy Awards,Best of Show and numerous awards,plaques and ribbons in many states.

Past/Present clients
I have taught at several ceramic and clay shops.Double LL Ceramics,Margies Ceramics and taught classes at 4-H,Girl Scouts,Boy Scouts,China Babes,Porcelain Dollies,Several schools and many one on one classes including several in Canada.I now sell special orders all over the world.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.