Load a glaze kiln with proper clearance

Now load for real, following your plan.

Loading protocol

1. Clean all shelves (no crumbs or debris that could contaminate glazes)
2. Place bottom shelf pieces first: typically your thickest glaze pieces
3. Verify clearance: can you slide a finger between every pair of neighboring pots?
4. Place cone packs visible through peep holes
5. Check that no piece overhangs the shelf edge (glaze might drip off into the void)
6. Final level check on every shelf

Before closing the door

Walk yourself through mentally:

• Could any glaze run far enough to hit a shelf? (thick glazes, tall pieces = risk)
• Are cone packs positioned where you can see them without opening the door?
• Is there airflow space for even heat distribution?

The emotional component

This kiln load represents weeks of work. Take the extra five minutes to double-check everything. It's worth it.