The 100 cubic foot catenary arch kiln was a three year project spanning 2021-2023. The project wouldn’t have been possible without the support of my family and the help of friends and mentors. My heartfelt thanks to you all.
2021 - Kiln Deconstruction and Relocation
In the summer of 2021 I went to West Virginia and over the course of 5 days deconstructed a bourry box style kiln. 95% of the kiln was salvageable and myself along with two friends broke the kiln apart and palleted all the bricks. The kiln consisted of Super, High and Medium duty brick, in total roughly 40,000 lbs. of material was transported to Pennsylvania. This included the brick, steel frame, kiln furniture (more brick) and insulation.
2021 - Site Prep / Shed Construction
The kiln pad was constructed in the summer of 2021. The kiln shed was torn down and relocated from an old family swimming pond and reconstructed with the addition of extra covering for wood storage. The pad for the kiln was poured in the summer of 2022.
2022-23 - Kiln Construction
Kiln construction began in 2022 with all the bricks being resurfaced with extensive grinding. Working with my mentor a catenary arch shape was designed. The kiln was built using a dry stack (mortarless) method. Frame construction used much of the old frame and fabrication was done by a talented local welder. Kiln construction was “completed” in the Spring of 2023 - though small adjustments and additions are still being made.
2023 - First Firings
The first firings of the kiln occurred in 2023. With the help of family and friends the first firings held their share of joy, frustration and memories made. The kiln was fired successfully 3 times in 2023 and more firings are planned annually. Firing the kiln has such a special place in my studio practice. I love the kiln atmosphere and community of friends and makers it brings together. The whole experience of building and firing the “Bee” kiln was a dream come true and I know it will produce amazing pots and unforgettable memories for years to come.
