Program a bisque firing schedule

A bisque firing isn't just "turn it on and wait." There are critical temperature windows that demand specific ramp rates.

The exercise

Program (or write out by hand) a complete bisque schedule for your kiln:

Key phases

1. Candling (room temp → 100°C): very slow. Drives off remaining moisture. 50°C/hour.
2. Water smoking (100°C → 300°C): still cautious. Chemically bound water leaves. 80°C/hour.
3. Quartz inversion (550–600°C): critical. Crystal structure changes. Go slow: 60°C/hour.
4. Full ramp (600°C → target cone): faster. 100–120°C/hour is fine.
5. Soak (optional): hold at target temp for 15–30 min for even heat distribution.
6. Cooling: kiln off, lid closed. Don't open until below 100°C.

Why each phase matters

Rush the early phases → steam explosions. Rush quartz inversion → cracks. Rush cooling → thermal shock.

Write it out even if your kiln has a digital controller. Understanding why each segment exists makes you a better potter.