Converting the Kiln for Silver and Bronze Jewelry

• 1). Position the silver jewelry items on a fiber kiln shelf to produce a softer surface for the pieces. This is especially important for dome or shaped silver pieces. Use a hard ceramic shelf for flat silver pieces.
  
  
• 2). Place kiln posts underneath each corner of the shelf. This is especially important for shelves set on the floor of the kiln. By raising the shelf, the heat is evenly circulated during firing. For example, to raise a square shaped shelf, place 4 kiln posts underneath the shelf at each corner. These posts are available in different heights. Make sure the posts are all the same size.
  
  
• 3). Layer several shelves by placing kiln posts at each corner and set each shelf evenly spaced apart. Make sure the silver pieces are not sandwiched tightly between the shelves. This process allows you to fire several pieces at the same time.
  
  
• 4). Fill a stainless steel firing pan with activated carbon. The amount of carbon depends on the size of your pan. Use this method to fire bronze clay jewelry only.
  
  
• 5). Dry the bronze clay pieces and position them evenly apart directly on the carbon. Make sure the pieces are not touching each other.
  
  
• 6). Cover the bronze jewelry pieces with a minimum 1 inch thick layer of carbon. Position the pan into the kiln for firing.
  
  

Glass Jewelry Pieces

• 1). Mix the kiln wash powder into water using a disposable bowl and mixing stick. The wash is also referred to as a separator or shelf primer. This process is especially important for glass jewelry pieces preventing it from sticking to the shelf while firing and causing the pieces to crack or break during removal. Read your brand's instructions for the appropriate ratio such as 1 part powder to 5 parts water.
  
  
• 2). Remove old primer from the existing shelf with sand paper. Make sure the surface is smooth. Skip this step if you are working with a brand new shelf.
  
  
• 3). Dip a Haik brush, also referred to as a kiln brush, into the mixture and apply it in a cross-hatch pattern. Apply a minimum of 4 coats of kiln wash onto the kiln shelf. The wash does not have to dry prior to adding the extra coatings. Keep in mind this brush is made from natural fiber bristles and has a tendency to shed. When the wash dries, wipe the bristles away with a soft cloth.
  
  
• 4). Allow the coated shelf to dry thoroughly. According to Sundanceglass.com "After your final coat, dry completely in the hot sun or in the kiln at 500º F for 20 minutes."
  
  
• 5). Position your glass pieces onto the shelf evenly spaced apart and fire. Make sure the glass pieces are not touching each other to prevent fusing during the firing.