After finishing up the arch forms we built for the new kiln (visit our last Noborigama Report blog post if you're curious about that), it was time to get the excavator and start digging. The Chamney Barn complex has quite a few kilns already, so we had to get a little creative with the placement for this new one.
After plenty of digging and leveling to the best of our ability, we made a simple wood frame and rebar grid to pour the concrete slab. With some help, we got the concrete poured, leveled, and added a bit of texture with a soft broom.
Friends, we are not professionals by any means — but we think it turned out pretty alright! Next step: Laying the floor of the kiln!
Digging up an area for the kiln pad to go.
Pouring and leveling the concrete for the kiln pad. Ta da!
Zeynep Uner is the current kiln and wheel repair apprentice at Bracker’s, working directly with David Sturm (the head tech) on repairs large and small. She has been repairing kilns for approximately 3 years now, and has been absorbing everything she possibly can from David’s 30+ years in the field.
Zeynep enjoys atmospheric firing, taking film photos, and throwing on her old Brent kick wheel.
