Wiseman Ceramics

Standard electric kilns wear out rapidly under the conditions necessary for Macro-crystalline firing. Fuel kilns, on the other hand, can prove extremely difficult in maintaining the proper atmosphere required for a zinc-based glaze.

After firing many models manufactured by L&L, Skutt, Geil, Bailey, Amaco, Olympic, and Cress during the last 10 years, specific requirements have been established for the kilns I choose to use.

In 2005, I initiated and inspired a computer-controlled studio gas kiln model (JH-10) with Geil Kilns owner Paul Geil. Geil’s patented automatic damper system provides the kiln with multiple stages of user-programmed temperature and atmosphere throughout the firing cycle.
In 2007 I designed my own electric model (JD18-JH) with L&L Kiln Mfg President Steven Lewicki. Platinum thermocouples, longer lengths of heavier gauge elements, and higher wattage does add a bit to the initial cost.
In terms of the long-term expense, however, it is well worth it.