Microwave Kiln Bisque

A short video on how to do bisque firing with a microwave kiln. This is the third in a series on what you can do with a microwave kiln.

[@johansenkj]

I had no idea that there was such a thing as a microwave kiln..that is so cool!! I started watching your videos to see how to make a mold. I just started with pottery..I have a wheel and kiln..but I’m definitely going to get one of those too! That sure beats waiting until you’ve made enough to fill the big kiln!! Thank you!!

[@KateandEvatoys]

Very informative! It’s hard to find videos on KZbin about the different things microwave kilns are good for and I’m very excited to get mine 😁 super excited to do small glass projects and now to try small ceramic projects!! I had no idea I’d ever be able to do things like this at home and I’m so excited!!

[@victoriaharrison-sewell6717]

A great little video with useful information, thank you!..

[@iguanapete3809]

That is so cool. An electric kiln starts at $450. A microwave oven is $69.95. The kiln from amazon is $25 ...and I see that people are melting gold and silver with them.

[@ruthinagibbons5698]

you are awesome! I was given a bunch of ceramic doll molds. I really want to try to use them. I searched the internet for hours and was about to give up. It looked so hard and I dont have money for the kilns they were using. Then I found your videos. You explain everything so great. My enthusiasm is renewed. I need to watch more videos to see what kind of clay and all that. I can't wait to try something with them. thank you!

[@CaptMike]

For some reason dolls are usually made with porcelain clay and it fires hotter than low fire clay/slip (04 bisque/06 glaze. I don't see why you could not use a microwave kiln if your pieces will fit into it. Better than nothing. If I can help I will try. Thanks for watching my video.

[@cottoncandymoon4681]

Did you ever figure this out?

[@SimpLeeBeth]

Awesome! Would love to see how you formed the bowl!

[@yashasvihanda6516]

I never thought i could do pottery like this.... Thank you sir 😳😳

[@CaptMike]

Thank you for watching!

[@ArtyMars]

I Bought 1 of each size kiln to make little breeding caves for all my fish tanks and it's the best hundred bucks i've ever spent! Sure if I was making 2 foot tall vases maybe not but smaller pieces are easy in this thing, one at a time, no exploding pieces xD I'm still so shocked that such a small little, simple contraption can get up to 16000 degrees in temperature it's almost hard to believe xD

[@CaptMike]

Thankms for the tip. I hope more people find uses for thes kilns.

[@ginettefrayssinet3864]

Cool la cuisson au micro ondes merci pour cette super idée 😊😊

[@ksa7]

Hello again, I wonder what you think about use of nichrome wire in a kiln? Do you think it would work or have you tried it? Thanks :)

[@vickybarker217]

Hi there I have just found your channel and am loving it! I would like to try the microwave kiln with slip cast objects and then raku but I was wondering what type of slip you use. I am in the UK and was thinking stoneware slip would work but would welcome your input... also, do you add any grog to make it stronger? Many thanks!

[@CaptMike]

Any type of slip will work. Use whatever you have on hand. I have not tried adding grog, but if you have more than a few failures with the clay you are using try a little of it.

[@vickybarker217]

@@CaptMike Thanks Capt Mike - I'll give it a go!

[@ziggiezag938]

Do you use a dedicated microwave kiln for your bisque firing? Or can you use the same one you use for glass? Mine is too small to do any bisque in, I'm just curious.

[@CaptMike]

I have four microwave kilns I use, but none are dedicated to one thing. It is OK to fire whatever you want in your kiln.

[@lisamiller6794]

Capt Mike , what do you think about those homemade microwave kilns an the large fire brick kilns ? A watched a few videos on making them , but just thought I'd get your expertise on it ... I surely Don't want to blow up my shop or house lol I would love to know how to build a kiln one day tho although I love doing my stained glass , an mosaic glass, it's expensive just getting supplies for a kiln... Shipping is just getting really expensive, nearest glass shop is 75miles. Thanks for sharing😀👍

[@CaptMike]

Lisa, I have watched a couple of videos on building a microwave kiln, but I think the one I gave a link to is still the best bet. I plan to try and build one later but am still gathering info on whether it has to be round or can be square. Amazon Prime has the ones I use for about $42 US shipped.

[@k.n.7697]

Thank you for the videos and the knowledge that you are sharing! I have 2 questions. The first is what about the stoneware clay? And the second is how are you sure that the object is ready?

[@CaptMike]

Any clay body will work be it stoneware, low, middle or high fire. They all have to be first fired to bisque temps. The difference comes in with the glazes you use. It will be hard to get temps up to anythig other than low fire glazes. By "ready" I assume you me ready to fire the first time. The clay should be completely dry before firing. If it is at room temps it should be dry as wet clay will be cool as it dries. Also dry clay is much lighter in tolor when dried. Clasy with moisture in it will tend to explode with you as the microwave kiln heats up too much too quickly. Hope this helps.

[@kathleengay7953]

Thank you

[@friendlyreminderbyronni]

Hey mike this is awesome! Would you say this works for ceramic mugs as well?:)

[@CaptMike]

If it will fit in the kilnb without toughing the top and edges, it will work.

[@gaetanproductions]

wow amazing technique, thanks for sharing ! What is the container made of that you put your cup into, is it necessary an what happens if you don't use it ? Thanks

[@CaptMike]

The kiln itself is made of a vermiculite type material and the inside walls have a graphite type material that converts the microwaves into heat. The microwave itself will not generate enough heat to bisque the clay.

[@gaetanproductions]

@@CaptMike thanks Mike

[@CaptMike]

@@gaetanproductions Thank YOU!

[@readingroomcafeproject]

I've been using my microwave kiln for dollshouse pottery for years and love it. I really like this video, though, I might be able to explode fewer items.

[@CaptMike]

Thanks for watching my video!

[@sasan473]

what is that thing he use to kiln ? u use that thing too ?that one he put ceramic bowl in ...

[@CaptMike]

@@sasan473 I think you are refering to a "Microwave Kiln" There are many videos on KZbin about them.

[@readingroomcafeproject]

@@sasan473 There's a brand called "hot pot" but it's essentially a highly microwave reactive substance in a very insulated pot (www.researchgate.net/publication/235438058_Magnetic_microwave_heating_of_magnetite-carbon_black_mixtures)

[@jamespeterson1163]

​@@CaptMikei have tried a few pieces and they break immediately after starting the microwave.

[@jkenjeri]

Thank you for sharing

[@CaptMike]

Thanks for watching!

[@carolynpollack1083]

Hi. I just came across your videos while I was looking at microwave kilns. Can you tell me, please, is the one you do jewellery (glass) in the one you can use for pottery? I'd like to know before I buy one. You've now got another follower 😅

[@CaptMike]

Yes, I do glass bisque, glaze and even Raku in the MWK.

[@lu4025]

Hello! Thank you for the video :) I'm writing with a translator, sorry for mistakes. How many waats does your micro wave have? And what was the separator? Could it be bisqit too?

[@CaptMike]

I have a 600 watt and a 1100 watt microvave. Both do the job fine. I coat the bottom part of the inside (the reaised portion) with two coats of regular kiln wash and always fire in top of shelf paper. You should have no problem firing a clay body to bisque (cone 04).

[@lu4025]

@@CaptMike Thank you for your answer :) I have a large kiln and I don't know what I'm doing wrong? I couldn't get the right temperature, my things cracked and the paper burned. I do not know whether the microwave is too weak for a large kiln or poorly dried clay? :(

[@sophiecastaneda07]

I am a beginner and I’m interested in getting one of these mini kilns due to space issues and cost. Is the kiln hot to touch or do you wait for it to cool before checking? How do you know it’s done? Hehe thank you for your videos. Very educational 🎉😊

[@kathleengay7953]

Where do you get your clay I so want to try your very inspiring

[@CaptMike]

I live in Georgia, USA and I get my clay slip from a company in Columbus, GA and I have to pick it up. I can't find a supplier who will ship it. Check with ceramic supply company in the largest city near you. You can always use regular low fire clay and mold what you want. After it dries, it will fire the same as clay slip.

[@sy2.083]

Beautiful

[@CaptMike]

Thanks for watching!

[@leeloopug]

hello. fantastic video. I have been using my microwave kiln to fuse glass and would really like to try pottery. do you use a specific type of clay for this please. thank you. :)

[@CaptMike]

Any ceramic clay, thoroughly dried, will work. I have used slip, regular cone 04 clay and even reclaimed natural clay. If it is dry and will fit into the microwave kiln it will most likely fire. Go slow, say 3 minute increments, until you know how the clay you are using will work.

[@leeloopug]

Capt Mike thank you. I'm going to have a go now. Exciting. :)

[@goodfoodlover7720]

I want to use this type of kiln for pendants and beads. I’m just wondering how I’d get around the usual metal for the pendant bail. Any ideas? Thanks. Love your channel 😊

[@laylacherry9427]

Smart microwaves do a normal oven , temperature, Grill , about 4 to 3 settings that can use metal cookware

[@mikemarley2389]

Use metal clay.

[@leylijohnson]

Hi Capt Mike! Thanks for making this video! Do you use low fire clay?

[@CaptMike]

Most of the time, yes. All most all my slip is low fire, but sometimes I have a clay body left from a project and I might biswue that. Have to remember what is what as the glaze has to match.

[@leylijohnson]

@@CaptMike gotcha! do you know if cone 06 raku clay would work for this?

[@CaptMike]

@@leylijohnson That should work just fine.

[@Nopfi]

Hello Captain Mike 😊 Just found your awesome videos about microwave firing. Is it possible to fire other kinds of clay? Which one would you recommend? Greetings 🍀😊

[@CaptMike]

Make sure the clay you will fire is a "ceramic" clay. The air dry kinds will only burn up. Thanks for the nice comment and thanks for watching.

[@Nopfi]

@@CaptMike thank you :) keep up the awesome work

[@CaptMike]

@@Nopfi Thank you foir the nice comment!

[@rosemaryrolfe5050]

hi i have a MW kiln . do you think it would be possible to fire bisque dolls house dolls ?

[@nightbaby5101]

Hey, Captain! I found a 2 cu ft microwave ... big enough for that microwave kiln? 1200 watts ... good enough? What greatest dimensions ... LxWxH --- OR --- diameter & height ... will work in the microwave kiln? Oh, by the way, here's how I make certain my projects are as dry as possible before bisque: First, I number my pieces and weigh each one, then I'll keep a record of their weights at each stage of my process. After the pieces sit overnight someplace where they'll firm up but not dry out too fast, I set my piece(s) onto a paper-lined cookie sheet. I turn my conventional oven to 170 degrees Fahrenheit and slide that cookie sheet in to cook --- with the oven door opened enough to allow circulation --- for four hours. Then, I turn off the heat and closed the oven door. Once the goodies are cool enough to touch, I weigh each piece again and record the weights. I repeat doing everything in the last paragraph above until there's no more weight loss. You probably already know that.

[@CaptMike]

Thanks for the tip on drying greenware. Sounds good! 1200 watts is plenty. If the microwave kiln will fit inside the microwave it will work!

[@yngynglau-layton7215]

Very nice video! May I ask what kind of pottery clay did you use?

[@CaptMike]

I have used low and mid fire clay bodies and slip. To bisque it makes no difference. The glaze will determine which clay, mis or low fire you use.

[@yngynglau-layton7215]

@@CaptMike Awesome, thank you Captain Mike!! 🫡

[@narmhyanneguanlao]

Hello.. thanks for the nice video. I wanna ask about the inner height of the microwave kiln and can i use this kiln in firing ceramic oil burner?

[@CaptMike]

The height of the insode of the kiln is about 3 inches (I'm bot at the shop right now) and I would not use the kiln in anything but a microwave.

[@ArtyMars]

Can you use a regular microwave for this or is this a specially designed microwave to be used as a kiln? *EDIT - I just realised it's that device you put in the microwave haha thanks*

[@CaptMike]

Any regular microwave will work.

[@ksa7]

I'm thinking about trying this myself, but i'm concerned about the poisonous gasses emitted during a normal firing - what are your thoughts and experiences in regards to this please. Thanks, very interesting!

[@CaptMike]

For an occasional firing/bisque, I would think there would be no problem. The volume is so low and you would not normally be standing at the microwave during the process. My shop is pretty large and I keep some kind of circulation going all the time. If you use your microwave in the kitchen, then turning on your stove exhaust would probably be enough. Very smart to be aware of all dangers. Just thinking, if you put your microwave outside, but under cover, you should not have any problems. Make sure you have A microwave dedicated to just your microwave kiln. I would not advise using the one you use to cook with.

[@berneemartin4383]

@@CaptMike thanks, I had not heard about microwave kilns before watching this. I don't use my old microwave to cook with (I don't think it is healthy); so, I'm glad to find an interesting use for it. I'm thinking that there are mainly only poisonous gasses during a glaze firing. Am I wrong? Would a bisque firing of a normal ceramic clay also emit poisonous gasses? I would personally be more afraid of EMF from the microwave and not be close to it while it is on anyway. I look forward to trying this with small handmade ceramic objects.

[@melaniegiegel3378]

Do you need to put the clay in while it is dry or can it be wet and newly made?

[@CaptMike]

You will have to wait until the clay is completely dry, otherwise it will crack/explode.

[@drusmith243]

Hey capt Mike!I am making cool little jewelery pieces out of porcelain cone 6 clay- I let it sit out and dry for three days and it blew up in my microwave kiln after three minutes. I've googled it to see if I may need to buy a different kind of clay. I'm really excited about this new adventure and I really want to make these work in a microwave kiln. Do you have any advice? I bought a large kiln and 1,000 watt microwave, kiln wash and low fire glaze.

[@CaptMike]

I have had problems with clay molds exploding, but for some reason small bowls and such seem to work out OK. You might try ramping up slowly by adjust inf the MW output from low to medium to high. Let me know how it turns out.

[@drusmith243]

@@CaptMike okay! Thank you! I'll give it a shot! I will definitely let you know! You are most helpful!

[@lisamiller6794]

Hi Capt Mike, Hope your doing well😊 I went home to Savannah last week, it rained for 2 weeks everyday but Tuesday lol. I went to go to all my favorite shops, restaurants for the best shrimp an grits in the south. , an did a lot of hanging out with my family of about 200 or so ... Love going home, always growing in Georgia. Are you in Savannah or closer to Atlanta? What kind of clay are you using? I'm going to try this , I've only worked with polymer oven clay , which I never figured out how to glaze it properly after painting the clay.. any ideas on glazing polymer?? 😀 Oh an thank you so much for sharing the video on drilling holes in glass...I feel safer about the electricity and water 🤞🤪

[@CaptMike]

Lisa, I live closer to Atlanta. The clay I use is regular stoneware clay that after drying has to be fired to cone 04. The clay Slip (and also the natural river clay) also fire to cone 04. If I am not mistaken polymer clay is cured in the oven at much lower temps. Most people just just use regular craft paint or the craft paints that cure at about 350 degrees. Do you know what your clay cures at?

[@snoopyching1743]

Hi just wanted to be sure is this a regular microwave with a microwave kiln?

[@CaptMike]

Yes, it is a 1200 watt regular microwave oven. I have also successfully used a 600 watt microwave.

[@4evermykids1]

Thank you do you think porcelain slip could be fired using same methods

[@CaptMike]

I have measured termps above 1400 degrees F in a microwave kiln. I know cone 04 is around 1900 degrees F and that is a normal bisque. I am sure porcelain would fire, just don't know if it would mature all the way. Try it and let us know!

[@dannielleb7402]

Can you link where you purchase yours? Can I use this with clay ? I know you mention slip; which is water and clay right?

[@CaptMike]

here is the link on Amazon: www.amazon.com/Professional-Microwave-Fusing-Melting-Jewelry/dp/B01M2XWNCI/ref=sr_1_5?crid=1ZUJY93S13GH6&keywords=microwave+kiln&qid=1657675953&sprefix=microwave+kiln%2Caps%2C80&sr=8-5. And yes, regular ceramic clay will work. Just make sure it is dry and has no bubbles in it.

[@lynnann96]

which of the kilns is that? There are so many that to tiny and many with really bad reviews.

[@CaptMike]

This is the one I use: www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01M2XWNCI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 I have about 6 of them and all work great.

[@lorahart56]

Are you 'firing' in 3 minute increments to do a slow ramp to temperature? Have you ever tried to do 15 minutes from the get-go?

[@CaptMike]

That is pretty much what I am trying to do. I have fired a full 15 minutes before, but glass it is problematic and seems to make the glass crack. It is something you will have to experiment with.

[@lorahart56]

Thank you@@CaptMike . I am going to try to fire ceramic clay. I'll try to find a good low fire clay body locally. Appreciate the answer.

[@lenicebatista157]

Muito obrigado, por responder minha mensagem. Será que você por gentileza poderia dizer que tipo de argila você usa?

[@CaptMike]

I use mostly low fire clay and slip. I have used natural clay from around my home (georgia) and it works fine.

[@nehede13]

Hi Capt Mike, I need your help. After watching your videos, I bought myself a microwave kiln and it's really cool. Both the bisque and glaze firing work wonderfully on little bowls and flat pieces, however I've tried making little clay animals but they keep exploding- even after drying for over a week. Do you know what could be the reason for this? Thank you so much! Laila

[@CaptMike]

I have had similar problems. I think it has to do with the rapid expansion/heating of the MWK. I sometime experience similar problems with my small kiln setter kiln. I have never figured out why.

[@nehede13]

Thanks for the quick reply Capt Mike! I noticed that the little carrier wheels in the microwave have melted a little. Maybe it didn't turn correctly and the heat wasn't distributed evenly. I also have now made some practice pieces the same size as my pieces that exploded and have poked some holes in the bottom. Maybe there was still some residual moisture... I'll keep you posted. Thanks so much for this channel. It's helping me a lot!

[@CaptMike]

@@nehede13 I have had the wheels melt before. I think it has to do with heat build up after the firing. I try to get the kiln out of the oven as soon as I can. Let me know how you come out with the holes.

[@laughytauffy8530]

How long do you need wait for it to cool after it is done until you can touch it?

[@nghiasting7490]

1- 2 hours

[@grahambuxton3833]

Hi Mike - just been watching your video, thanks. What are the interior dimensions of your microwave kiln (diameter + height). Is it the largest size available? Can you please give me some idea where you got it from and how much it cost? I live in Australia.

[@CaptMike]

I purchase them on Amazon :www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01M2XWNCI/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

[@grahambuxton3833]

@@CaptMike Hi - thanks :) However, I'd like to use it to fire pottery, and need a larger size to accommodate various pots I've thrown. Is there a commercial microwave kiln larger than this one?

[@CaptMike]

@@grahambuxton3833 Not as far as I know. There are various videos on making one your self and I am going to try, but I think the one I use is the largest right now.

[@grahambuxton3833]

@@CaptMike Thanks, I appreciate that. I think I'm going to have go at making my own microwave kiln using a ceramic pot, electric paint as a conductive ink, and a ceramic fibre blanket. And I'll get myself a second-hand microwave oven rather than use the kitchen one! Then I'll have a go at making my own glazes! Should be fun :)

[@CaptMike]

@@grahambuxton3833 sounds like you are on the right track. Make sure you have a good base, one that will insulate or the glass part will crack (ask me how I know). Keep me posted on your progress.

[@dreaclare33]

Hi Mike! I followed your steps and tried bisque firing a small piece that disintegrated in the first 3 minutes. I purchased the microwave kiln that you shared the link for in one of the comments that you use. Microwave is 1100 watts, a little over the 1000. I used cone 6 clay and let it dry x1 week. Any ideas?

[@CaptMike]

I have had clay bust before. Is this the only piece you have tried? Seems like you let it dry long enough. Try initial heat at one minute intervals for three or four minutes, then ramp it up. Let me know how it is going for you.

[@dreaclare33]

@@CaptMike Yeah, it's the first piece I have tried with the microwave kiln. I will try another next week at shorter intervals. Have you ever tried low heat drying anything in the kitchen oven before firing them to make sure they're really dry?

[@CaptMike]

@@dreaclare33 You can use a oven on low heat, say around 150 F. I use a large dehydrator.

[@emilygardner8842]

@@CaptMike If I do dry it in the oven at about 150, how long should i leave it in?

[@CaptMike]

@@emilygardner8842 I's hard to say. I would start with 30 minutes and let it cool. After it sits long enough to cool to room temps and becomes cooler that the room, it is still drying. Hope this helps.

[@laughytauffy8530]

Also, is any clay okay to microwave kiln?

[@CaptMike]

As long as it is a clay for making ceramics. Do not use "oven Bake" clay in a kiln of any type. The clay will burn up.

[@yannick-tripleocarina6960]

That small bowl you fired , was it Cone 4 ? I want to try making a pendant ocarina !

[@CaptMike]

As far as I can tell, the microwave kiln reaches about 1400 to 1500 degrees fahrenheit. I would think more in line with cone 06 to 04.

[@yannick-tripleocarina6960]

@@CaptMike Hello again , What brand of clay were you using in this video ? and how much time did it take to completly fire this piece ?

[@CaptMike]

@@yannick-tripleocarina6960 The small bowls I make for testing (for cone 06 glaze) are cast from low fire slip. If I am testing a cone 6 glaze (fired in my regular kiln) I use a mid to hig fire clay. It normally takes about 12 minutes for my microwave kiln to reach 1700 degrees F. That's a little low for most cone 06 clazes, but it seems to work.

[@yannick-tripleocarina6960]

@@CaptMike Ok so 12 minutes to transform bone dry clay to bisqued ceramic ?

[@yannick-tripleocarina6960]

@@CaptMike Im sorry to ask you som much question but im amazed by what you could achieve with this small kiln ! Its incredible

[@PCVElisa]

Hello! I’m experimenting with my microwave kiln and paper clay, but every time I try to bisque it , it shatters and crumbles, even after the first six minutes. I’ve tried different shapes (flat and about 1/4 inch think / cylindrical and 1/2 inch), but it doesn’t seem to matter. What am I doing wrong!?

[@CaptMike]

Elisa, I have never tried paper clay in the microwave, but if I had to guess I would say the paper burning off too quickly caused internal gasses to blow the item apart. Just guessing here as I think the schedules for paper clay in the kiln take into consideration the burning off of the paper. If I get time I will make some paper clay and give it a try. Thanks for sharing.

[@PCVElisa]

@@CaptMike Thank you for your response. I look forward to hearing your results.

[@ILOVENJ00]

How did you make the cover that goes on top of the small bowl? Is there a video on it?

[@CaptMike]

Are you talking about the top of the microwave kiln?

[@ILOVENJ00]

@@CaptMike Yes

[@CaptMike]

@@ILOVENJ00 Thanks for watching.

[@leonaleolo8750]

It is called a microwave kiln. You can buy one for $50 or less on Amazon

[@ILOVENJ00]

@@leonaleolo8750 thanks

[@emanuelamarialeva4935]

Hello Capt Mike, I am writing to ask you about the clay biscuit cooking steps in the microwave. I used Hotpot to toast clay pendants. Those with a thickness greater than 0.5 cm are expelled after about one minute. The more subtle ones have peeled. I did 3 minutes at idle, 3 minutes at 200 ° C, 3 minutes at 400 ° C, 3 minutes at 600 ° C, 3 minutes at 800 ° C. I left to cool for 20 minutes with hotpot out of the oven. Can you help Cap Mike please? Thank you emanuela (Italy)

[@CaptMike]

Hi Emanuela, I assume by "Hotpot" you mean the microwave kiln. First you must make sure the clay is the proper type (ceramic clay) and has dried completely. Place the dried piece on the microwave shelf and put the top on. I usually heat the kiln for 3 minutes at a time for a total of about 9 to 12 minutes. You can tell if the pendant is done when it glows red hot. Once you have completed the bisque process you can glaze the object and re-fire it with the same schedule. I hope this helps. If not please let me know.

[@emanuelamarialeva4935]

Buonasera Cap Mike, grazie per la rapida risposta!!! Per Hotpot intendo quello. Uso argilla refrattaria per Raku (WM Sibelco), asciugata per 6 giorni e prima passata con pistola termica. La potenza del forno va tenuta sempre uguale? Al minimo, medio o massimo? Dopo vorrei provare a smaltare con la tecnica raku. 3 minuti a quale potenza? Grazie CapMike@@CaptMike

[@emanuelamarialeva4935]

Good evening Cap Mike, thanks for the quick reply !!! By Hotpot I mean that. I use refractory clay for Raku (WM Sibelco), dried for 6 days and first pass with heat gun. I don't know what power to set - minimum, average, maximum? Constant? After that I would like to do Raku for 3 minutes, but at what power? Thanks good night

[@CaptMike]

@@emanuelamarialeva4935 I use a 1200 watt microwave and run it on high. What you are looking for is the final temperature (glowing red to yellow). With small items, even glass, the cool down is not as important as with a regular kiln full of ware. After you have fired the clay to bisque, let it cool naturally inside the kiln. That should take about one hour. As long as your clay is a type that is to be fired in a kiln you will do OK. Also as long as the clay is dried (six days should be more than enough) you should not have to preheat it, but that will not hurt anything. Keep me informed of your progress.

[@emanuelamarialeva4935]

@@CaptMike Thank you thank you! I will try again. I will keep you updated.

[@laughytauffy8530]

I need to help, can you please tell me the steps that you need to do the firing in the microwave kiln.

[@CaptMike]

The first thing t do with your new microwave kiln is to put a coat of kiln wash on the firing platform (the raised part the top fits over) next you will need to cut some shelf paper to fit over the kiln wash. You will have to replace the shelf paper with each firing (most of the time). To fire something in your kiln, place clean, compatible glass in the center of the kiln. I fire most projects in 3 minute intervals, checking between times to see how the glass is doing (sometime it will crack and separate) After approximately 9 minutes you should see the glass beginning to turn red. Depending on you microwave, you should have a complete fusing in 12 to 15 minutes. Let the kiln set unopened for about 10 minutes, then crack i open a little to speed up the cooling. It should take about 45 minutes to one hour to cool enough to handle. Hope this helps.

[@laughytauffy8530]

Capt Mike thank you so much 😊

[@ambombon9123]

Could I possibly skip the paper that goes in the bottom and can a microwave kiln for making glass work with a very small piece of pottery/ ceramic clay ?

[@CaptMike]

My standard procedure for preparing a microwave kiln is to first use kiln wash on the bottom part of the kiln. Then I use kiln shelf paper on top of that. If you can set a greenware piece inside the kiln (not touching the top or side) you can bisque it. You might not get good results with a real thick piece. I have also successfully glazed and did Raku in the microwave kiln. I have all these videos on my channel.

[@ambombon9123]

Oh okay will watch 👌🏼 thanks for the tips 😊

[@JDRobertson]

@@CaptMike How thick can the clay be? I noticed your bowl was thin.

[@CaptMike]

@@JDRobertson It does nor have to be real thin, just remember, the more mass you have the longer it takes to dry and to heat up in the kiln.

[@4evermykids1]

so you can fire the smaller objects that u use clay slip in molds n fire them in microwave kiln but what abt firing time n settings do u need to use kiln wash to do this with ur microwave kiln or just fiber paper I have small molds for pouring clay n then ur supposed to fire in regular kiln but if this will work it's be great any advice thank u for sharing I'm new to this

[@CaptMike]

I always put kiln wash on the top of the bottom part when it is new. However, always use kiln paper on top of that when you fire. As far as a schedule goes, you will have to develop your on based on the wattage of your microwave. I would suggest you start with 3 minute increments and watch it until it gets red hot (Glowing). That is normally enough for it to become bisque.

[@4evermykids1]

Capt Mike thank u for ur help n answering me back

[@CaptMike]

If you need any more help, just let me know.

[@berneemartin4383]

@@CaptMike how do I figure out the wattage of my old microwave?

[@CaptMike]

@@berneemartin4383 It should be on a lable, usually on the back somewhere.

[@laughytauffy8530]

I put a clay cup in the kiln, it was dry it did not dry overnight. After three minutes i checked on it, then it was destroyed in peices

[@CaptMike]

Sometimes that happens. How long did you dry it (in days) If you hold a drying piece in your hands and it is cooler than the surrounding temps, it is not fully dry. Just saying. I also have had stuff crack or bust for no reason.

[@laughytauffy8530]

Capt Mike I also tried something that took 1 day too dry, but we heard sounds from the microwave while the clay bowl was in, then we checked and it was also destroyed just like the last one. How long should I wait for clay to dry until I can microwave kiln it?

[@CaptMike]

@@laughytauffy8530 one day is not enough for clay to dry. It usually take at least 3 to 4 days, maybe more depending on the local humidity and temperature.

[@berneemartin4383]

Roblox General, not only must your piece be fully bone dry (not cool to the touch), but it must not have air pockets or be too thick. Also, you might try bringing it up to temperature much more slowly that might help.

[@maddysutherland3166]

I want to start making porcelain miniatures at some point, I wonder if I’d be able to make do with a microwave kiln?

[@CaptMike]

Maddy, I am sure you can do it. Just make sure your clay has not airpockets and the clay vis very dry. When it is necessary to use thick clay make sure it is completely dry before firing.

[@maddysutherland3166]

@@CaptMike Thanks! I shall add it to the list!

[@CaptMike]

@@maddysutherland3166 Good luck!

[@user-hn5dr3hv9l]

What clay and glaze do y use?

[@CaptMike]

I use everything from a low fire slip to midfire slip (bisque to cone 04), any clay body and usually Duncan or a similar low fire (cone 06) glaze.

[@rozwojowa]

Please, help me! I don't know where I'm making a mistake :( First works great, everything ok. Suddenly I started to have problems with the glaze. Baked, bubbles and a different color than before. I don't know what's going on? I shortened the time, I thinned the glaze, still nothing. Maybe a problem in the microwave?

[@CaptMike]

The problem should not be with the kiln. At the end of your firing sequence, peek in the kiln and see if the piece is red hot. If you are using a low fire glaze (cone 06) the results should be the same. Make sure the glaze is completely dry before firing. Are you dipping the bisque or using a brush?

[@rozwojowa]

@@CaptMike Thanks for the answer Yes, I only use low firing, I painted and brush and pouring and still the same : ( The stove is red hot, it looked like the glaze was too baked, so I was controlling the firing, then it was like some places were melted glaze and others not :( I don't understand :(

[@CaptMike]

@@rozwojowa If possible, send me a message with a photo or two here: facebook.com/michael.d.blackston and I'll see if I can help you with this.

[@oumoukhairyndiaye7986]

Hello Which kind of clay should i use to make a biske in the microwave kiln ? I have at home a black clay that turn red when it is fire in the gaz kiln, i think the name is eathenware ou faïence in french. CAN i use it for microwave kiln ?

[@CaptMike]

Any clay designed to make ceramics should work fine for the bisque phase in a microwave kiln. I use my local clay (that also turns red) and it works fine.

[@eloyespejoart]

is there any thickness maximum cm's?

[@CaptMike]

For glass no. Just ramp the temps up slowly. For clay make sure it is completely dry and has no voids in the piece or it will explode.

[@nycisme9290]

What cone is your clay?

[@CaptMike]

All the clay bisques to cone 04 You can use either low or medium or high fire clay. It oly matters when you start to glaze. The MWK will not (so far) get hot enought to need other than low fire clay body. Thanks for the question.

[@Crip2Knyght]

Can anyone tell me Where can i buy this microwave kiln please and thank you

[@CaptMike]

I buy mine here: www.amazon.com/dp/B01M2XWNCI?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_dt_b_product_details

[@Crip2Knyght]

@@CaptMike thanks again

[@demianriley121]

What cone clay?

[@CaptMike]

All clay will bisque at cone 04. If you are goinf to use a high to mid fire glaze, then you will have to use a clay that will fire that high. Mostly for the MWK I use a low fire, cone 04 clay.

[@osirusj275]

whats is the cover in the microwave made of?

[@CaptMike]

The kiln is made of a soft material similar to the material soft fire bricks are made of. I'm sure it is a propriety material.

[@osirusj275]

@@CaptMike can i use a hotplate and heat the ceramic directly on it, or can I use microwave without that kiln?

[@CaptMike]

@@osirusj275 The hot plate, regular contentional over or such will not get hot enough to fire ceramics. A microvave oven without the microwave kiln will not create enough heat to work either. Thanks for asking.

[@osirusj275]

@@CaptMike hahha thanks for replying what about those hotplate with temperatures adjustment up to 1600c and use something to cover it at top?

[@CaptMike]

@@osirusj275 Wow! 1600c is hot, about 2900 f. Still, the microwave kiln ould not work. If you could build a kiln that you could set that hotplate inside of, it might work.

[@lynnann96]

Have you attempted cone 6 stoneware clay???

[@CaptMike]

No, but I have bisque my river clay in this kiln and it glazes at cone 6 and above. My microwave and this kiln will only reach about 1500 degrees F.

[@-LR-]

Can you bake bronze clay in this kiln?

[@CaptMike]

I don't know. What temps does the bronze clay mature at?

[@-LR-]

In a kiln for 820 °C during 30 minutes.

[@CaptMike]

@@-LR- 820 is 1500 F. Thats pretty hot, but I think the MWK will go there. I don't think you will hurt anything by trying. I would fire the clay at 3 minute intervals until it was yellow hot and hold for 20 to 30 minutes. Make sure you have the kiln inside floor well washed and use a layer of kiln paper. Understandstand I have never tried this so do so at your own risk.

[@-LR-]

@@CaptMike thank you

[@TrippingHigh]

How many min total

[@CaptMike]

About 15. Depends on what you are working with and watts of MW.

[@Senna444]

If i buy this kiln, can I make food safe ceramics?

[@CaptMike]

"food safe" will depend on the gaze you use. None of the glazes should be harmful for occasional use

[@francismarcoux8944]

However 3 minutes increments protects your microwave

[@CaptMike]

I use the 3 minute incriment thng so I can check on the piece being fired between incriments. You could probably get a way with going 15 minutes or so streight, but sometime thig crack or break and checking helps save time.

[@fidelio11199]

can i make porcelain in the microwave with clay and high heat?

[@CaptMike]

If the pieces would fit in the kiln and you could get the temps high enough, yes, it would work. Porcelain is a high fire clay and as best I can tell my microwave kiln heats to about 1500 F, maybe a little higher, but it is hard to tell. May I ask what you are going to do with the fired pieces? Maybe you don't need to go to porcelain temps.

[@user-po1ie6uj8m]

is that the biggest piece that can fit in the kiln?

[@judithfarley6990]

There's no sound

[@CaptMike]

Judith the sound works fine for me. Are you getting the video?

[@artsyfartsystuff4277]

NO!! not supposed to let this kiln cool down in microwave.

[@CaptMike]

Artsy, may I ask why? I usually let the kiln sit in the microwave a couple of minutes, then remove it and sit it on something fire proof and after maybe 10 minutes I prop the kiln slightly open with a piece of ceramic and let it finish cooling.

[@francismarcoux8944]

Input itv15 minute and leave it alone

[@CaptMike]

That will work.