How to Make a DIY POTTERY KILN

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 14 พ.ค. 2024
  • I built this primitive convection kiln from bricks in my backyard for only $110.50. This video shows how I did it, discusses the details and other considerations for those that are interested in making their own DIY kilns.
    My original video showing my first, adobe DIY kiln can be seen here - • Make a Pottery Kiln at...
    📖 CHAPTERS:
    0:00 Why build a convection kiln
    3:07 How I built my kiln
    6:30 Measuring the temperature in my kiln
    8:23 Primitive kiln FAQ
    ❤️ Support my channel
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    👕 T shirts and other merch - teespring.com/stores/andy-war...
    🛍 Shop for pottery related goodies
    Classes, tools and pottery are available at my online store: ancientpottery.how/shop/
    📚 Improve your pottery skills
    Check out my in-person pottery workshops and online masterclasses to improve your pottery making skills. ancientpottery.how/classes/
    ⭐️ Social media
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    📬 Send me mail
    Andy Ward PO Box 43601 Tucson, AZ 85733
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ความคิดเห็น • 328

  • @patrickbodine1300
    @patrickbodine1300 2 ปีที่แล้ว +155

    Hint: dip the bricks in water before laing them up. The wet bricks won't suck the water out of your mortar and thus the bricks will stick together better.

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  2 ปีที่แล้ว +20

      Great masons tip, thanks.

    • @safurian
      @safurian ปีที่แล้ว +9

      also when you use the trowel, press the clay mortar with force into the surface of the bricks on both sides. makes them stick together way stronger then when applying little force and only one side of the brick.

    • @lovelivelaughsmile7223
      @lovelivelaughsmile7223 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Mortar doesn’t stick to wet brick. It will pop right off.

    • @flyerphil7708
      @flyerphil7708 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@lovelivelaughsmile7223you have to get the balance right for best results.

  • @dabz_n_gagz
    @dabz_n_gagz 2 ปีที่แล้ว +118

    Looked up how much a small kiln was and found out it was wayyyy out of my budget. So, thank you so much for this life saver of a video!!

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Awesome, glad I could help. Be sure to check out my latest livestream for more tips on how to build and also info on how I am firing it recently. th-cam.com/video/A4LVKo2FXJQ/w-d-xo.html

    • @itsmemckee2110
      @itsmemckee2110 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Same here, there used to be a place in my town that would fire my pieces but they shut down. I was blown away by kiln prices so now I'm here trying to build my own. Good luck!

  • @andyanderson4604
    @andyanderson4604 3 ปีที่แล้ว +106

    Thank you for being a down to earth commonsense person and not showboating it like everyone else does

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  3 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      Thanks, that means a lot to me as someone who tries to be down-to-earth. I used to know an Andy Anderson who lived in Bisbee, Arizona.

  • @montyferguson4657
    @montyferguson4657 3 ปีที่แล้ว +111

    I made my first piece of pottery last night, and it wasn't as difficult as I thought it would be.

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  3 ปีที่แล้ว +18

      Good for you. Keep it up.

    • @teekotrain6845
      @teekotrain6845 2 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      You're hooked now. Congrats

    • @Achbar
      @Achbar 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      This is awesome

    • @riverqueen4561
      @riverqueen4561 ปีที่แล้ว

      Wonderful😎💚

  • @adampickering5477
    @adampickering5477 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I'll be using this kiln build, many thanks!! Great video

  • @mandybell7884
    @mandybell7884 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    What a fantastic video ! Thank you - so glad I found your channel ! Going to binge watch , subscribed and couldn't be happier ! Thx again !

  • @bumblebeemoran
    @bumblebeemoran 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Awesome video I can’t wait to try this thank you!

  • @quakeychristchurch
    @quakeychristchurch 13 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Fantastic and inspiring Andy.

  • @makeitkate3240
    @makeitkate3240 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thanks Andy! I’m excited to see it in action!

  • @niccolealdrich4890
    @niccolealdrich4890 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Thank you so much for sharing this! I will be building one on my new homestead for my hobby shop.

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Great, I hope it works out for you.

  • @anafdez2112
    @anafdez2112 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Loved it! This is going to be my summer project

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Awesome, I hope it works out for you. My upcoming video that comes out in Wednesday will show my most recent firing of this kiln.

  • @HecateNoctis
    @HecateNoctis 2 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Informative and relaxing to watch. This seems very doable especially for a beginner. I love it!

  • @MsHan71
    @MsHan71 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Hey Andy - so glad to have your videos. I'm about to build my first wood fired kiln in northern France, so eagerly watching your video's. 🙂

  • @DavidD6969
    @DavidD6969 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks for all the great videos 👍

  • @mythosEthosLOGOS25155
    @mythosEthosLOGOS25155 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks man . Real informative , and you seem like a cool dude 🙏

  • @rollingltl5053
    @rollingltl5053 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Thank you for this video! Nicely done! I'm going to build one of these when the weather warms up. We have a little bit more moisture up here in Northern Arizona, so I will have to find a solution to protect the mortor

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      You should be fine in northern Arizona.

  • @bygollystudio8567
    @bygollystudio8567 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you for the video. I am happy I found your channel

  • @Petal300
    @Petal300 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I love watching your videos Andy: so informative and who knows, one day I may build my own kiln and fire some of my pottery using your methods :-)

  • @charleswalker2484
    @charleswalker2484 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    excited to watch more videos of this kinda content

  • @FrankDiaz22
    @FrankDiaz22 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Pulling up my chair on this project! Excited to see a cone test

  • @darty4654
    @darty4654 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    thank you for such an informative video! like another commenter, i have been planning to build a small wood fire kiln but what i could find online & in books wasn’t exactly suitable for a suburban environment. excited to see how it fires :)

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks, I hope you find a kiln that works for you in your yard

  • @airstreamwanderings3683
    @airstreamwanderings3683 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Looking forward to the inaugural firing, it will be good. Thanks for the video.

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      You are welcome. Thanks for watching

  • @sarahale7214
    @sarahale7214 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    I just found your channel and I’m happy I did. I live in Georgia, and have clay everywhere. It is extremely wet her, so thank you for the wet climate advice. I can’t wait to get started.

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I'm glad you found it helpful.

  • @nicolecrystal6765
    @nicolecrystal6765 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    LOVE your show thank you !

  • @steevs7912
    @steevs7912 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thanks for this, my wife and i wanted to get into pottery. I want a more ancient style wheel and she wants one with a wheel. So we will see how much i like spinning it myself.

  • @bondpaz
    @bondpaz 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I live close to Tucson. ❤️ This will be perfect for what I want to do. Thanks!👌🏽👍

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yes, it works perfect in this climate.

  • @rustyshackleford3278
    @rustyshackleford3278 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Great build Andy, we can't wait to see it get fired up. Great point about protection from rain, here in New England it would need its own enclosure. If you need more heat a few mouse holes in the firebox should do the trick.

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks Rusty. New England? I assumed you lived in Arlen, Texas.

    • @rustyshackleford3278
      @rustyshackleford3278 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@AncientPottery you got me, its really Dale Gribble

  • @annarook9918
    @annarook9918 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Thanks so much for sharing! I bought a wheel a year ago and got discouraged because I couldn’t fire anything. These last few months it occurred to me to make my own kiln..duh! I just couldn’t find the right plan till now! So grateful! I will be trying this out very soon.

  • @the_banshee
    @the_banshee 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Really great video 👍🏽

  • @nononono3421
    @nononono3421 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thanks for this, really informative. I'm in Canada, hoping to build one once I move out of the city (forget making a kiln in this city, not even allowed to have a fireplace).

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Wow, no fireplaces, I've never heard of that.

  • @Lena-xy8id
    @Lena-xy8id 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Love this vid!

  • @MHan-sk8dl
    @MHan-sk8dl 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Thanks for sharing your knowledge. Another cool think to do with clay is make pozzolanic cement.

  • @manariiteh3242
    @manariiteh3242 3 ปีที่แล้ว +39

    Hello, I can’t wait to see the result. How long does firing a kiln should last ? Also How long after pottery looks red hot should the fire continue? Thank you for your videos it is vers inspiring.

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  3 ปีที่แล้ว +25

      You will need to watch my firing video that is coming up. You can maintain the heat as long as you think you need to. I’m glad you are enjoying my videos.

  • @TheKjoy85
    @TheKjoy85 ปีที่แล้ว

    I'm glad that you addressed ways to protect it from moisture in wetter environments. I live in Washington state and we see a lot of rain where I live. I would build mine on a cinder block platform. Another challenge I would face is the summer burn bans. The burn bans can get so strict that you can only burn in a wood stove and only if it is your primary source of heat for your house.

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Wow, those folks in Washington are hard core

    • @TheKjoy85
      @TheKjoy85 ปีที่แล้ว

      We frequently get small wildfires along our highways during the summer, but they get put out quickly. It is the ones deeper in the forests and grassy spaces that are harder to get under control.

  • @brendasawatsky2798
    @brendasawatsky2798 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    great video ty

  • @user-fb7pb6ts5x
    @user-fb7pb6ts5x 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Regular brickwork would work but using firebrick and high temperature mortar is the proper method, just use standard masonry for the outer walls or build some type of shelter to protect it from weather in wet or freeze/thaw regions.

  • @edmorris1437
    @edmorris1437 ปีที่แล้ว

    The discussion at the end is quite important. Most backyard DIY projects I see on the internet don’t discuss modifying how one has to adapt the build to different climates. In my case I would have moisture, snow, and deep frost (=frost heaving) to contend with. So a DIY kiln would cost much more after you factor in the cost of a stable base, and a weather-proof and heat proof enclosure.

  • @storiesfromaninkwell
    @storiesfromaninkwell 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I'm very excited to see what temps you can reach,

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      We will see. Thanks for watching

  • @EXARCWithGrandpop
    @EXARCWithGrandpop 3 ปีที่แล้ว +20

    You are always one step ahead of me (lol). This has been on my "to do" list all winter. I need just a few weeks more for the weather to warm up to build mine. I have built a coal forge in almost the same way. I am going to make a few adjustment to your version and add what I learned from building the coal forge on my kiln. If it works, I share with everyone on Instagram. If not, I'll just remake it the way you have done it.

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      That’s great. I am only ahead of you because the weather here in Tucson has been good.

  • @Grizzlife
    @Grizzlife 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Good build . You could dig vents from bottom to the outside you can control. This will definitely make for a hotter fire in small area.

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes, I did exactly that, check out the video I made that shows the improvements I made to this kiln th-cam.com/video/b-qNKqwaiy8/w-d-xo.html

  • @russellsmith8609
    @russellsmith8609 3 ปีที่แล้ว +20

    Hi Andy. I think your kiln looks very functional and quite sturdy.
    I noticed that your kiln looks very close to your cements block wall.
    A piece of sheet metal should reflect enough heat to prevent any heat damage to the block.
    It is amazing how much heat even a little kiln will produce when you are cramming every spar BTU you can find into it.
    I looked into paper kilns and was surprised at how well they insulate.
    So, was thinking thin layers of adobe with lots of straw on the outside of the kiln might help retain more heat and shield the block wall.
    I am wondering what you are going to put on top of the kiln?
    Two plates of something will allow you to throttle the fire and retain more heat. As well as put the kiln into reduction at the end of the firing.
    A piece of flue pipe will also improve the draft. But I don't know how far away from your original thought you may want to go.
    When I referred to your kiln as little I was by no means trying to slight it in anyway.
    I think your kiln will be a real work horse and you will be able to pull an amazing amount of pottery through it.
    I hope I don't sound like too much of a know it all with a lot of unsolicited advice.
    I am really meaning it to have a conversation.
    Thinking is nice, but doing is better. And you seem to be doing very well, cheers.

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Thanks for the tips Russell. I fired it yesterday, no problems with the block wall getting hot. I used a few concrete pavers to cover the top and retain more heat. It did get a little smokey at one point but everything came out great. Look for the video of the firing on my channel March 24.

  • @anetatopolska8992
    @anetatopolska8992 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    ❤ Dziękuję za przekazaną wiedzę.Pozdrawiam z Polski❤

  • @russellsmith8609
    @russellsmith8609 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    The last comment I made was reproduced from my failing memory when I hit cancel instead of comment on the very first one.
    So I just realized that I had left out this part.
    When you are first starting up the kiln, if you place a temporary grate on top of the kiln and build a small hot fire, it will burn away all the smoke coming out of the top. Since smoke is just unburned fuel.
    This should help with having a stealthy urban kiln, cheers again.

  • @teekotrain6845
    @teekotrain6845 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Time to find some free bricks on Craigslist! This tutorial was exactly what I was looking for

  • @renaissancewomanfarm9175
    @renaissancewomanfarm9175 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I watched your adobe kiln video and now this one (thanks to Pinterest). The adobe one reminded me of some rocket stove videos that I have watched. Now I'm keen to give this a go. I haven't thrown pots since high school and I'm retired now so I think I had better get to it. Can't wait to go back and catch up on the rest of your videos.

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Great! Thanks for watching, I hope your kiln works well for you.

  • @spcwright2002
    @spcwright2002 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I like this guy

  • @markspc1
    @markspc1 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I am waiting for the inaugural firing,
    I made some mud mortar 10 years ago and I used two type of mixture: 50/50 sand/clay and the other one was 50/50 sand/clay and added 1 part of cement to 9 parts of the mud/clay mixture.
    The 50/50 sand/clay mixture got eroded by the elements (rain, wind, hot, cold, sun) and the 9:1 mixture have not eroded at all.

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Excellent, thanks for sharing your experience.

  • @sham1234567891
    @sham1234567891 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Great stuff Andy! Finding wood to burn is pretty a daunting task where I live. May I ask if it is possible at all to use gas fire to do the job? I would appreciate a quick reply. Thanks and Regards. Sham Naarai.

  • @marcelasantostorres5248
    @marcelasantostorres5248 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Nice video, I will definitely give it a shot to building my own. Could you recommend a device to measure temperature, possibly one that I could get on Amazon. Thank you so much. Great great video

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  ปีที่แล้ว

      Something like this should work amzn.to/3yCwMha

  • @SerenitynPeace
    @SerenitynPeace ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thank you for this very informative video. I love ceramics. I love pottery very much and would love to make my own pots, mugs, plates, & more.
    My only problem is finding a way to fire my pieces. We live in an apartment. Hardly no land to the place. Just enough for parking lol. Maybe I can talk with landlord & make a deal?! Thank you sir! 🙏🌹

  • @sham1234567891
    @sham1234567891 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Hi again Andy! May I ask if it is possible to use clay as mortar to joint the bricks or do I need a special cement bond?

  • @turalmz
    @turalmz 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    I like your taste in music

  • @WoodWizard13
    @WoodWizard13 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hey, greetings from a native Tucsonan!

  • @user-ih7nn2jp5y
    @user-ih7nn2jp5y 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hi Andy, great video.
    Quick question, if you don’t mind.
    Sweet dungarees where’d you get them?
    Look like a sturdy pair, I myself am in the market for a new pair would appreciate a recommendation.
    Thanks again for the video.

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks, they are Liberty Overalls. I buy them at Cal Ranch locally. amzn.to/3HbSHxF

  • @overthetopblues
    @overthetopblues 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    If you add a metal grate in the front of the fire box, this would keep the fuel off the ground allowing better air flow. Also if you add a fan or something to blow air into the kiln you'd reach much higher temperatures..(Like a rocket stove.) Good luck with the first firing! )

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks you for the tips. Yes, oxygen will make a big difference in the temperatures.

  • @thedutchsighthound
    @thedutchsighthound 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    So, how far does a kiln like this needs to be from buildngs or hedges? I see your is quite close to a wall of some sorts. I love quite small with a small garden and the sized are all hedges!

  • @jaymckee7205
    @jaymckee7205 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hi Andy, really informative video, did you use fire bricks for building the kiln or would standard brick be suitable also? - James

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      I used just regular bricks. I'm not going to be firing super hot so I think that will be suitable. Fire bricks are a lot more expensive.

  • @gaetanproductions
    @gaetanproductions 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    great build, thanks for sharing, do you have a video where you fire up this kiln ?

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yes, here th-cam.com/video/zk-9iWQfJgc/w-d-xo.html and here th-cam.com/video/b-qNKqwaiy8/w-d-xo.html

    • @gaetanproductions
      @gaetanproductions 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@AncientPottery thanks, watched both, very interesting and well filmed

  • @TheMrpiggyboy
    @TheMrpiggyboy ปีที่แล้ว +1

    So if I remember right a long time ago there was product called star set. It was used in firer place construction in the fire box where the flame was the hotest, It came in a pail and was not to be frozen.

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  ปีที่แล้ว

      Sound about right. I used clay because it was cheaper.

  • @nowahblanco9935
    @nowahblanco9935 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    nice video

  • @decaturdeedaniel
    @decaturdeedaniel 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Is there a fire brick pre mix mortar for walls I can get?

  • @Lauragld
    @Lauragld ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This is wonderful....can I bisque fire and glaze fire in this sort of kiln? Thank you for this great video :)

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      You can definitely bisque fire, you will need temperatures of around 1300 C to melt glaze. I have never had this kiln that hot but I make earthenware so I have never tried either.

    • @Lauragld
      @Lauragld ปีที่แล้ว

      @@AncientPottery Thanks so much... :)

  • @katlynnsmith9154
    @katlynnsmith9154 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I know this is an older video ao i dont know if you will see this.
    What kind of bbq grill did you use? Was it one that had fire? Thanks

  • @jennyfranklin514
    @jennyfranklin514 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I am so excited to get started. I have so many questions though; for starters, is a thicker wall on the kiln better, or is it better to be thinner walled?

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks! Thicker walls will hold heat better, thinner walls cool more quickly. My earlier kiln was made from adobe with walls that were about twice as think as these and it stayed hot longer. You can see that one here if you haven't already seen it th-cam.com/video/XjpxfkSBPgo/w-d-xo.html

    • @jennyfranklin514
      @jennyfranklin514 ปีที่แล้ว

      @Frank James hi. Do I know you?

  • @brendenbroermann2052
    @brendenbroermann2052 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Hey Andy, what cones can you fire to? I believe doing a cement outer coating of the kiln would insulate the pottery a lot nicer and allow for a more stable and easier firing method.

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I never use cones so can't answer that question directly. I do use a thermocouple to measure temps in my kiln and I regularly hit about 850 to 900 C. I am sure I could go higher if I wanted to and spent more time at it, but those temps are perfectly fine for the pottery I am making.

  • @zinniacr
    @zinniacr ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Hi Andy! How high up does the barbeque rack need to be from the bottom of the kiln and can you have two racks for extra pottery? So you can fire items without glaze on the bottom rack and with it on the top rack? How hot does the top end of your kiln get? Any suggestion on how to get it to burn to at least 1,000 celsius? What did you use for a lid on this kiln? Thanks and great video!

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  ปีที่แล้ว

      I'm working on a video about how best to fire a kiln like this. I have never had it up to 1000 C but I do believe it could be done with a little more time and effort. I have never tried two stacks. I was just putting some bricks over the top for a lid but now I am building a little chimney with bricks and find that works much better as it increases draw. You can see this method in this video th-cam.com/video/4z3x8psUUbE/w-d-xo.html Like I said I will be making a video showing my thoughts and methods on firing this and getting the most from it.

  • @jamesmayes4351
    @jamesmayes4351 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    Hi Andy, your kiln looks a lot like a bloomery furnace for processing iron ore into wrought iron. Those get to 1,000c or so. Have you considered putting in a tuyere below the pottery you can use to force air into the kiln? You can make a clay pipe that your fire and then connect it to a bellows, or an electric leaf blower. You can get crazy heat out of a charcoal charged furnace/kiln that way.

  • @michellepirone9631
    @michellepirone9631 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hello and thank you for making this video. I live in the city and have a small back patio area, with concrete/pavers down in the ground. I noticed you dug up some ground and placed the bricks in, and I am just wondering if it is still ok to build a kiln without a dirt ground, and if so how would be best to do so. All of the videos I have seen are working on dirt ground. Thanks again!

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes, just put some dirt between the pavers and the fire to protect the pavement from being damaged.

  • @monicasmadeinmaine1114
    @monicasmadeinmaine1114 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I’ve started something similar. I made mud bricks interior with straw like they did for early colonial ovens. And then did a brick with mud mortar exterior. I haven’t quite got enough mud bricks to finish it. I’m wondering about fire temps. Will these bricks hold up to heat? Another option I was think of using fire bricks but those aren’t cheap. I can’t wait to see you light this one. I’ve been waiting until spring to finish and try mine. Also what do you plan on using on top, to create a chamber?

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Yes think those bricks will hold up fine. I will cover the top with some paver bricks I have. Wait for my kiln firing video that will be coming out in a couple weeks.

  • @tagladyify
    @tagladyify 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I did some excavating on my property last year. We have a large clay layer in our soil and high amounts of clay in the soil so I saved several buckets of the clay I uncovered. Have always wanted to build a kiln and make some things. I made a brick rocket stove out of bricks laying around a number of years ago to barbecue on. You have inspired me to turn that into a kiln. Also I have always wanted to take some of the extra limestone we have and burn it to make lime mortar to do authentic repairs on my 1899 walls. I wonder if that could be accomplished in one of these little kilns as commercial operations once did on a large scale? Even though we have limestone readily available finding real lime powder or mortar without chemicals added to do burnished lime on walls has become almost impossible in my area.

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I have actually wondered about that myself. A quick Google search shows that you only need a temperature of 700 C to produce lime. Although you may need to maintain that tempe over a period of time to make sure your limestone gets heated all the way through.

    • @tagladyify
      @tagladyify 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@AncientPottery I saw a video of a guy who did it on his farm with a huge bonfire with the rocks piled in the center. Sort of like an outdoor firing of pottery. He stacked the wood very specifically so that it slanted in toward the limestone and would concentrate the embers into the middle as it burned. It worked, but I don’t have the space for a fire that big.

  • @jimmylewis-ward9008
    @jimmylewis-ward9008 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Do you think you could semi waterproof the kiln with a light render to protect the mud in a wet climate? Or would the external part of the kiln reach too high of a temperature for a cement based render mixture? Thanks

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I think that could be problematic. Around here they will sometimes coat an adobe building with cement based plaster in an attempt to keep the moisture out. This can cause big problems as any moist that gets in, either through wicking up out of the ground or through small cracks in the plaster, cannot get out and will slowly dissolve the wall from the inside. So they say it is better to coat them with a breathable plaster such as lime plaster so that moisture can escape.

  • @benanaaki8504
    @benanaaki8504 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Nice vidio

  • @gprw72
    @gprw72 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hi,
    Really instructive and good videos for me as a novice but potterycurious guy. Do you have any video about fire bricks? When to use and when not? This is really confusing to me and I do not get a clear picture of this topic. You mention below you are not targeting high temp so firebricks are not needed for this kiln. But you are still targeting 800c for burning pottery right? I guess my question is when to use fire bricks and when can I use regular bricks?

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I said "I think" fire bricks are not needed, I have never done this before so I am learning as I go. But it seems logical to me that these bricks were fired much hotter than 800 C when they were made, so I would assume that 800 would not adversely effect the bricks. Only experience will tell me how they work. I certainly could never have made this kiln so cheaply if I had to use fire bricks.

  • @annarook9918
    @annarook9918 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Can you recommend a thermocouple that will work for this kind of kiln and is relatively inexpensive? Or point me in the general direction. It seems the probe needs to be ceramic?

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I use the ACI 1030-4-8 unit on this page www.clay-king.com/pyrometer.htm

  • @noiddion599
    @noiddion599 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Givning u a like for that smooth occasional moonshine accent haha .. good video! 👏🏽

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I'll take that like, thanks. I grew up between Arizona and Washington State, but I have lived a few years in Louisiana and Oklahoma and that southern accent is contagious.

  • @janethundley3519
    @janethundley3519 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Have you made the video of you using this kiln yet? Have just discovered this. Thanks

  • @MultiZaat
    @MultiZaat 12 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Im just curious what is your opinion on kilns with a long tunnel? Ever planned to craft one?

  • @jamiew1555
    @jamiew1555 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Me n my friend got a hold of an old concrete drain Pipe.. im thinking perfect kiln/ smelter

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  ปีที่แล้ว

      That's an interesting idea, I hope it works out.

  • @Coldkill2001
    @Coldkill2001 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Hey Andy. Could this kiln perhaps be upsized for firing large quantities of bricks?

  • @freddiemoretti8456
    @freddiemoretti8456 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thanks Andy, another good video.
    I will accept that Florida may not be as kind as Arizona to this type of kiln. I imagine that just the humidity would not be all that good for it. I have enough to keep me busy without branching out into other methods. I enjoy watching and learning from your videos.

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      The humidity itself should not impact it too bad so long as it is protected from precipitation and ground moisture.

    • @superclaymaster
      @superclaymaster 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Even the smallest fire inside will suck out the moisture.

  • @wcouch8
    @wcouch8 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    If you had to do this again, would you leave a couple bricks without mortar to be able to remove them to add air? If so, at what height would you have the non-mortared bricks?

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yeah, maybe that would be a good idea. I need to do another firing and try some things to make it burn better.

  • @crystalbubbenmoyer9858
    @crystalbubbenmoyer9858 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I live in a city my yard is half Concrete patio type and then some grass dirt area could I build this right on the concrete slab or does it have to be on the dirt

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      You could put it on the slab, just put a couple inches of dirt at the bottom as a buffer between the fire and the concrete.

  • @josephlemieux5981
    @josephlemieux5981 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    If I wanted to make my own clay bricks for the kiln, can I fire the bricks on the ground with wood like I would do for pottery?

  • @scottbronson8492
    @scottbronson8492 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    What about using refractory cement instead of the mortar? Will add to my cost but think the stability and ability to take the heat would be worth it?

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yes, that would work great. In my case I was trying to keep the cost down so mud mortar was a better option for me.

  • @adamweiss5442
    @adamweiss5442 ปีที่แล้ว

    Howdy Andy, I loved your video and learned a ton... I had a couple questions after watching maybe you could help work through. I am trying to do a lot of research to make the best DIY Smoker, to smoke meat like ribs, brisket, etc. I dove into the kiln design DIY world to better understand a different niche with a relatively similar goal; Design a cheap, safe, effective, and efficient contained heating source. It is worth quickly pointing out the major design differences are going to be related to food safety and design for food use, Lid design, and the lower temps of smoking meat 220-600 degrees operating temps. My questions are as follows:
    1. What is the best food safe alternative to mud... I have thrown around the idea of building this kiln around a metal barrel to eliminate this problem of mud crumbling onto the food but this is far more intensive and ultimately more expensive. Is there a good alternative to mud like concrete or some cheap brick mortar that can do fine at my lower operating temperatures?
    2. For long term use is it worth building this on a structure of foundational bricks...I imagine getting ash out does not matter as much when making pottery if you can use something to start the flame but in the smoking meat hobby it is super important to sift all charcoal ashes out between smoking's for the flavor of the meat. I will probably design and weld a sifting table for the charcoal to sit on and have holes to sift out the ash... but having a layer of brick underneath may allow me to scrape out any ask build up over time. In your use of the Kiln has cleaning out ask ever come into play or is it just as easy as taking a small shovel and scraping it out and whatever dirt comes along is no worries?
    3. One design feature I am a little stuck on is the lid, it would be great for it to be hinged and light enough to move, as well as be insulative and seal against the body of the smoker. Generally lids are shaped like an upside-down bowl to increase the velocity of the smoke coming out of the top and act as a sort of nozzle. I have kind of deduced it has to be metal just because it needs to be formable, mountable, light, but it really gives up a lot on the insulation front... do you have any clay ideas for a lid like this or any other material for that matter?
    I am sorry for the lengthy essay just thought I would try to gain more insight from any expert I can reach. I hope you keep having a great time and keep up the amazing content, I will be sure to stay tuned :)

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  ปีที่แล้ว

      Wow, lots of text... Wish I had more time to answer these "essay questions".

  • @terryperrine639
    @terryperrine639 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I live in the volcano area of the Pacific NW. We do not have actual soil in my area unless we make it ourselves: compost and other ingredients. What I'm wondering is that our soil is primarily volcanic pumice. What could I use as a bonding agent with the volcanic pumice to make the mud to build a pottery kiln?

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      No idea, in fact the Pacific NW tends to get a lot of rainfall so the mud mortar may wash away rather quickly in that kind of climate. If you don't have access to any wild clay the best choice might be either to buy clay or to buy mortar. But really I am just guessing here.

  • @bendillon3486
    @bendillon3486 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    First of all, thanks for making this video... I had a quick and possibly stupid question. Could I use clay as a mortar for this?

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yes, in fact that is exactly what I used for mortar. Just mix in a lot of sand (I used 50%) to keep it from cracking.

  • @tagladyify
    @tagladyify 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Is there a way to reasonable test the clay for arsenic and other chemicals before using them as food grade or do the extreme temps burn everything away?

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Maybe, but I wouldn't know. Our ancestors ate off of natural earthenware and they weren't dropping like flies from their pottery. I would assume that it is generally safe and like a lot of things in life, just take my chances with the rest.

    • @tagladyify
      @tagladyify 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@AncientPottery our ancestors didn’t have crazy pharmaceutical companies traversing the earth with their poisons or airplanes flying all over the skies, though, but I understand the sentiment: “Do your best and don’t sweat the rest.” Still for all we know there were advanced civilizations to rival ours in the very distant past that polluted the earth as well.

  • @tsh1941
    @tsh1941 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hi Mr Ward. I am struggling to get hold of clay. Is it possible to replace it with river sand? Is there any aggregate combination that may give me the properties that clay offers?

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      If you are talking about using it for mortar between the bricks, sand will not work. You could try using refractory mortar but it is a little pricey.

    • @tsh1941
      @tsh1941 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you, Mr Ward.

  • @artstick9485
    @artstick9485 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hello !! I was wondering if I could use cement instead of sand and clay ??! Pls lmk thank you ❤️

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  ปีที่แล้ว

      You could but the cement would not hold up to the firing temperatures over time

  • @ricosuave5120
    @ricosuave5120 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Omg...I thought he was a young Andy Rooney!😃

  • @timidevil
    @timidevil 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Can you use mortar and river stones? Im pretty broke but theres all sorts of rock where i live

    • @timidevil
      @timidevil 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Or cement and stone?

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Sure you can, but I would prefer mud mortar to cement as the concrete may not hold up well to those high temperatures. Pottery doesn’t have to cost a bunch of money as it’s made from natural materials.

  • @dopeanddivine6902
    @dopeanddivine6902 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I just want to make sure, red clay dirt and just reg sand from anywhere?
    And would it be OK to use the flat stepping stones as a base (floor) or just leave it all on ground? 🤔

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Well generally yes. But all clay is different so I can’t vouch for all clay anywhere on earth.

  • @heatherwatson8273
    @heatherwatson8273 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hi Andy, you said in your last video that when you build your next kiln you will add a fire grill so the ashes drop down away from the wood but you can't put a grill in this.

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yes, I am going to be doing that and firing again very soon so stay tuned.

  • @Rosie2009ify
    @Rosie2009ify ปีที่แล้ว

    the probe is reading in centigrade and the blue hand held reader is reading Celsius, that might explain why there was a difference between readings

  • @eiyumats6218
    @eiyumats6218 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    You should name your new kiln!

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Oh, great idea! I’ll need to think on this one.

  • @keenwa42
    @keenwa42 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Can this be made a rectangle shape? or with a rectangle rack for inside instead of a round BBQ grill?

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Sure you could but I think the rectangle would be less efficient

  • @thebillyharry
    @thebillyharry ปีที่แล้ว

    I would say put kiln shelf stilts sideways into brick to hold a kiln shelf or your barbecue grill grate.

  • @oldbones9162
    @oldbones9162 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Just one question….I’ve seen where straw was added to the clay with some. What’s your thought. Thanks

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Adobe is just like pottery but on a larger scale. The straw acts as temper, the same as sand. Straw however can provide a pathway for moisture to get into your structure, sand is better because it works the same but does not wick moisture in like straw does.

    • @oldbones9162
      @oldbones9162 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Sand it is! Thanks for the reply and advice.

  • @bolaith1410
    @bolaith1410 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hi Andy .. I want to do a shelf for gas kiln but I don't know how..little help please🙏

    • @AncientPottery
      @AncientPottery  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Sorry I have absolutely no experience with kiln shelves or gas kilns.