🔥 Build & Fire Your Own Wood Kiln

A 3-Day Hands-On Workshop at Lyde Green Pottery

Dates: Friday 26th – Sunday 28th September
Location: Lyde Green Pottery, Brandy Bottom Colliery, Pucklechurch, BS16 7QE

Join us for a unique, hands-on experience at Lyde Green Pottery, where over three days we’ll work together to build and fire a small-scale downdraught wood kiln — capable of reaching temperatures up to 1300°C and producing beautiful flame and natural ash effects.

This is a rare opportunity to engage with the entire wood firing process, from kiln construction to unloading the final results.

🛠️ What You'll Learn

This course is ideal for potters, ceramicists, and firing enthusiasts who are curious about wood kilns — especially those considering building their own. You’ll gain:

• Practical experience building a “fast fire” wood kiln

• A working understanding of small-scale kiln design and firing cycles

• Insight into flame path, natural ash glazing, and firing effects

• Knowledge of wood types, sustainable fuel sourcing, and combustion science

• An appreciation for what’s possible on a modest budget using accessible materials and tools

🗓️ Workshop Breakdown

Day 1: Design, Build & Load the Kiln

• Introduction to wood firing principles

• Group construction of a small downdraught kiln

• Preparation and loading of your own ceramic work

Day 2: Fire the Kiln

• Guided firing process with stoking, temperature management, and team rotation

• Learn firing techniques, reduction timing, and atmosphere control

Day 3: Open the Kiln & Review Results

• Unload the kiln together

• Group discussion of results, surfaces, glaze outcomes, and firing lessons

🔍 What to Bring

• 2–5 bisque-fired stoneware pieces (grogged clay recommended)

• Cone 10 glazes – you’re welcome to use your own, or try from a small selection of house glazes available onsite

🌿 Additional Info

• Location: Lyde Green Pottery, Brandy Bottom Colliery, Pucklechurch, BS16 7QE

• Toilet: Compost toilet on site

• Accommodation: We can’t offer accommodation, but camping may be possible for those traveling from outside Bristol — please enquire when booking

🎟️ Book Your Place

Spaces are limited to keep the group small and collaborative.
📩 To reserve your spot book here or if you have any further questions, email: phil@philrootstudio.com