Soda Firing
The process of soda firing is an atmospheric firing technique where soda is introduced into the kiln near peak temperature. The soda I use is sodium carbonate also known as soda ash. I mix the soda ash with water to make a solution that I can spray into the kiln with a pressurized sprayer, something similar to what is used to spray weeds in a garden. As the soda is sprayed into the kiln it vaporizes and is carried by the flame of the kiln through the kiln. Soda vapors create a glaze when it lands on a piece in the kiln. Thus, wherever the flame travels so does the soda. Therefore, it is important to keep in mind what pieces I put where in the kiln because certain areas of the kiln may receive more soda than other areas of the kiln.
