Train Kiln Workshop - June 2026
Train Kiln Workshop - June 2026
Participants will learn to fire Brian Buckland’s train kiln. Be a part of a group with a common goal, learn to problem solve, experiment, study the kiln’s patterns and behaviors, all while making some good friends and memories in the process!
Participants will learn:
application of glaze/ flashing slip for wood-firing
wadding pieces and other kiln loading tasks/techniques
stoking fire
reading cones
kiln logging
sanding and finishing techniques
Location
Workshop takes place at Brian’s home studio and kiln in Bridgton, Maine
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations made 30 days before workshop start will be refunded in full.
Schedule
Day 1 | Thu | Jun 11
Kiln prep, glaze, and wad pots. Begin kiln load.
10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Day 2–4 | Fri, Sat, Sun | Jun 12, 13, 14
Finish loading kiln and continuous ~36 hour firing, broken into 6 hour shifts. Shift schedule signup will be shared with participants prior to firing. Each shift is open to 4 participants.
Day 2 - Friday, Jun 12
9:00 am - Noon (optional to stay until door is bricked up ~Midnight)
Day 3 - Saturday, Jun 13
Shift 1 | Midnight - 6:00 am
Shift 2 | 6:00 am - Noon
Shift 3 | Noon - 6:00 pm
Shift 4 | 6:00 pm - Midnight
Day 4 - Sunday, Jun 14
Shift 1 | Midnight - 6:00 am
Shift 2 | 6:00 am - Finish (~ Noon) (all participants welcome)
Day 5 | Friday, Jun 19
Kiln unload and clean up (rewash shelves and posts). Pack up work to bring home.
10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Materials & Tools
Participants should be prepared to stack wood, move bricks, stoke fire, and attend shifts at various hours of the day.
Important: Participants must use high-fire clay bodies (cone 10) for this firing. Suggested clays:
Laguna: B-Mix 10, B-Mix Wood, 570 Porcelain
Kentucky Mudworks: Laverne, Big Stuff, Magnolia Porcelain
Standard: Troy Porcelain, Troy Woodfire
What to bring:
Cone 10 bisque ware (~2 cubic ft)
Cotton/wool (non-flammable) clothing
Closed toe shoes and hat/bandana
Respirator, safety goggles and work gloves
Headlamp/flashlight
Packing materials to bring work home
Materials included in fee:
Glaze/slips
Wadding
Cone packs
Wood
Available to borrow:
Kiln gloves
Meals & Lodging
There is no on-site housing available and meals are not provided. Participants must make their own housing arrangements. Please plan ahead with meals and snacks to sustain you throughout the day and your selected shifts. Local grocery stores and restaurants are located downtown (1 mile from kiln site).
