Do you have clay work that you need to fire? Hire kiln space in one of our electric kilns at our studio at Spode Works in Stoke-on-Trent.
FAQ’s
How do I hire kiln space?
Please contact us at studio@britishceramicsbiennial.com to make arrangements to hire kiln space. We will need you to give us a rough idea of the amount of work to be fired, the type of firing (bisque or glaze) and the temperature.
How big is the kiln?
The biggest kiln is: 46cm x 68cm x 75cm or 18.1″ X 26.7″ X 29.5″ (width x depth x height)
What temperatures do you fire?
We fire at 1000C, 1140C and 1260C. We can fire to a different temperature if you book a full kiln. Check the correct firing temperature for your clay and glazes. Firing clay and glazes at the wrong temperatures can damage the kiln and other people’s work. If you are not sure, please check the packaging and discuss it with us first.
How much does it cost to hire kiln space?
Full kiln: £120
Half kiln: £60
Full kiln shelf (at height of 15cm) £24
We will be able to give you an exact cost when we receive the work at the studio.
How long will it take?
We generally fire the kilns twice per week, according to demand. There is a minimum of one week turn around for firing work. This may be longer if there is not enough work to be fired at the same specific temperature. To reduce environmental impact, we wait until a kiln is full before firing. If you’re working to a deadline, we would recommend hiring out a full kiln to ensure your deadline is achievable.
When do I drop off or collect work for firing?
You can only drop off and collect your work by arranging it with the studio team. We have a designated place for contactless drop off and pick up at the BCB studio.
How do I pay?
Once we have packed your work into the kiln we will contact you with the exact cost.
We will then ask you to pay this via BACS transfer.
The Clay Foundation
Sort Code: 08-92-99
Account Number: 65780750
Reference: INC014 Kiln
Where do I drop it off?
The entrance to the Spode car park is on Elenora Street, Stoke. There is a security office to the right of the car park. The security guard will see you arrive at the barrier and direct you to the studio – you can park near the studio doors. The address is:
BCB Studio
Spode Works
Elenora Street
ST4 1QQ
What happens if the work gets damaged in the kiln?
We take great care loading and handling everyone’s work. We make sure it is dry enough for firing. If we are unsure about a piece of work then we may contact you for more information before firing. Sadly, on occasion, damage may happen due to the delicate nature of ceramics. Work fired in a community kiln may also damage or be damaged by the work next to it. If you are particularly worried about this, it may be better to book a full kiln for yourself. We would not be liable for any compensation for damaged work.
What happens if my work damages the kiln or kiln furniture?
If your work causes damage to the kiln or kiln furniture, we may ask you to contribute to repair or replacement of the kiln elements.