How to Saggar Fire

Saggar firing is a traditional ceramic technique that involves placing pottery inside a protective container, called a saggar, during the firing process. These methods on how to saggar fire are often used to create unique surface effects on ceramic pieces by containing organic materials, oxides, or combustible materials within the saggar.

The intense heat from the kiln reacts with these materials, producing unpredictable and one-of-a-kind patterns and colors on the pottery. Saggar firing is popular among artists seeking to add an element of experimentation and uniqueness to their work.

Why Saggar Firing?

Saggar firing has been around for centuries, with its origins traced back to ancient civilizations. However, it wasn’t until the 20th century that this method gained popularity among contemporary ceramic artists. So, what makes saggar firing so special?

One of the main reasons is the element of surprise and unpredictability it brings to the finished piece. Unlike traditional methods such as glazing or painting, where artists have more control over the final outcome, saggar firing allows for a more spontaneous approach. The interaction between the organic materials and oxides within the saggar creates unique patterns and colors that cannot be replicated.

Moreover, saggar firing also offers a more eco-friendly alternative to traditional firing methods. Since the pieces are fired in a sealed container, less fuel is required, making it a more sustainable option for artists.

Materials and Tools Needed

To begin a saggar firing, you will need several materials and tools. These may include:

Clay

This is the base material that you will be using to create your artwork. It is important to choose a clay that can withstand high temperatures, such as stoneware or porcelain. Make sure to also consider the color and texture of the clay, as these will affect the final outcome of your pieces.

Combustible Materials

These are what create the unique patterns and colors in a saggar firing. Examples may include sawdust, leaves, spices, or even horsehair. These materials should be chosen carefully as they will directly impact the appearance of your pieces.

A Saggar

This is a container that holds all of the combustible materials and acts as a kiln for your pieces. You can use various types of containers such as metal cans, ceramic pots, or even tin foil pouches, depending on the size and shape of your desired artwork.

Taming the Fire

Saggar firing requires a controlled fire to create the desired effects. It is important to have good ventilation and proper safety measures in place when conducting this technique. You can use a gas kiln, an outdoor fire pit, or even a charcoal grill as the heat source for your saggar firing. It is important to closely monitor the temperature and make adjustments as needed to achieve the desired results.

Safety Measures

When working with fire, safety is always a top priority. Here are some important safety measures to keep in mind when conducting saggar firing:

• Always have a fire extinguisher nearby and know how to use it.
• Wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and an apron.
• Use long-handled tools to avoid getting too close to the fire.
• Keep a safe distance from the heat source at all times.
• Avoid using flammable materials in your saggar or around the fire.

6 Simple Steps on How to Saggar Fire

Step 1: Prepare your artwork 

Begin by ensuring that your artwork is completely dry and ready for firing. Any residual moisture in the clay can cause cracks or damage during the firing process. Sand and smooth out any rough edges on the piece to achieve your desired finish.

Once prepared, clean the surface of the artwork to remove any dust or debris, as this can affect the final outcome of the firing. Finally, decide on the materials and textures you would like to experiment with during the saggar firing process, keeping in mind the effect they can have on your piece.

Step 2: Building the Saggar

Now that you have your artwork prepared, it’s time to build the saggar. A saggar is a container made of fireproof materials that holds the artwork during firing. The most commonly used materials for building a saggar are clay, refractory cement, and metal mesh.

To start, create a base layer using either clay or refractory cement to form the bottom of the saggar. This layer should be at least 1 inch thick and cover the entire bottom surface. Next, place your artwork on top of this base layer, ensuring that it is centered and does not touch any sides of the saggar.

Step 3: Adding Layers

Once your artwork is securely placed in the saggar, you can begin adding layers. This is where you can get creative and experiment with different materials to achieve different effects on your artwork.

Some common materials used for layering in a saggar include sawdust, seaweed, leaves, banana peels, coffee grounds, and various types of salts. Each material will create a unique effect on the surface of the artwork during firing. Start by placing a layer of one material over the top of your artwork. Then, add another layer using a different material. Continue this process until the saggar is about ¾ full. Make sure to leave enough space at the top for airflow and for the artwork to expand during firing.

Step 4: Firing the Saggar

Once the saggar is loaded with the artwork and various materials, it is ready to be fired. There are a few different methods for firing a saggar, including pit firing and kiln firing.

Pit firing involves placing the saggar in a shallow pit or hole lined with combustible materials, such as sawdust or newspaper. The pit is then lit on fire and allowed to burn until all of the combustible materials have turned into ash. This process can take several hours, depending on the size of the saggar and the intensity of the fire.

Step 5: Glazing

After the firing process, the unglazed pottery is ready to be glazed. Glazing involves applying a layer of liquid glass onto the surface of the pottery. This glass layer will become fused with the clay during a second firing in the kiln.

Glazes come in a variety of colors and finishes, from matte to glossy, and can be either transparent or opaque. They are made up of different minerals and oxides that melt at specific temperatures, creating unique chemical reactions on the surface of the pottery. The type of glaze used can greatly affect the final appearance and feel of the piece.

Step 6: Final Firing

The final step in making saggar-fired pottery is the final firing in a kiln. This is where all of the elements come together to create the finished piece. The temperature and duration of this firing will depend on the type of clay, glaze, and desired effect. During this firing, the saggar, pottery, and any added combustible materials are heated up to extreme temperatures. As the kiln reaches its peak temperature, the combustibles inside the saggar start to burn off, creating unique patterns and colors on the surface of the pottery.

Following these steps on how to saggar fire pottery, you will now have a one-of-a-kind piece of art that has been transformed by the elements and your own creativity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Saggar Firing Only Used for Decorative Purposes?

A: No, saggar firing can also be used to create functional pottery pieces. It all depends on the type of clay used and how it is fired.

Q: Can Any Type of Pottery Clay Be Used for Saggar Firing?

A: Yes, any type of pottery clay can be used for saggar firing. However, some clays may react differently to the firing process, so it is important to experiment and test before making a final piece.

Q: How Long Does a Saggar Firing Take?

A: The length of time for saggar firing can vary depending on the size and thickness of the pottery piece, as well as the desired level of decoration. It usually takes several hours to reach peak temperature and then additional time for cooling.

Q: Is Saggar Firing Suitable for Functional Pottery?

A: While saggar firing can produce stunning decorative effects, it is not recommended for functional pottery. The high temperatures and unpredictable results make it difficult to ensure the durability of the piece. It is best to use other techniques such as glazing, for functional pottery.  However, some potters may choose to use saggar firing for specific pieces or as a way to add unique accents to their functional work.

Q: Can I Reuse My Saggars?

A: Yes, saggars can be reused multiple times as long as they are properly cleaned and maintained. It is important to remove any debris or residue from previous firings before reusing a saggar to avoid potential contamination and unwanted effects on the final piece. Some potters may choose to line their saggars with a layer of kiln wash or alumina hydrate to act as a barrier between the clay and any previous firing materials.

Conclusion

Saggars are an invaluable tool in pottery, offering artists the ability to control their firing environment and achieve unique results. With proper care and maintenance, they can be reused effectively, making them both a practical and versatile option for ceramicists.

By understanding and employing the techniques associated with saggar firing, potters can continue to push the boundaries of their creativity while preserving the integrity of their tools. Thanks for reading this article on how to saggar fire.