Re: My first big break! But not the good kind. What happened
Posted: Sun Sep 23, 2012 5:31 pm
Brandie, When I first started working in kilnformed glass, I would use schedules provided by other sources, figuring if it worked for them it should work for me, yada, yada, yada. But one caveat most of the more successful artists gave was that schedule worked for them in their kiln. As my experience grew so did my understanding of my own kiln's operation. Plus how different glasses, processes and colours need specific consideration when developing a schedule. I only realized a little while ago I still had much to learn, when an instructor asked rather explicit questions about thermal shock temp ranges, devitrification temp ranges (I had mostly guessed at these) See the Bullseye Tech Notes for answers. The efficiency of your schedule (mine weren't all that efficient) and understanding viscosity are also helpful things to know. I also learned how important is the regular maintenance of your kiln. Some things I was doing right, others I wasn't doing at all. The condition of your kiln does not remain static and an efficient kiln works best. If a schedule you've been using for some time for the same operation successfully seems not to be doing so now, it could be the condition of the kiln.
That the 2cents from someone still learning. Mary Lou
p.s. If this sounds like a lecture it' not meant to be, just my own experience.
That the 2cents from someone still learning. Mary Lou
p.s. If this sounds like a lecture it' not meant to be, just my own experience.
