How Do You Build An Anagama Kiln?
An Anagama kiln is a Japanese pottery kiln that utilizes wood ash to glaze pottery. The kiln consists of a long chamber for firing, and several ports for adding wood. There is a firebox on one end and a tall flue on the other, which often spits flames, giving this kiln its nickname “Dragon Kiln.” Firing time lasts a few days or several weeks, making it a group firing experience. Building an Anagama kiln can be a tedious process, but the results are worth it. Read on to learn how to build an Anagama kiln. Build your Anagama kiln in steps, beginning at the back near the flue, which we will call step one, and finishing in the front at the main stoking port, which we will call step five. The finished kiln should be near 172 inches long and 90 inches at its widest point. Make the first step the highest step to create a draft through the kiln. Experiment with the height of the flue to increase or decrease draft. Be sure to include an active damper at an accessible point and protect the pots
