October 23, 2024: The initial test firing was unfortunately delayed. About an hour into the burn, a freak wind storm began kicking up dust. Due to the dry conditions, I got nervous and decided to put out the flames. Just after I did, the fence was blown over, nearly reaching the grill I was using! Putting out the flame may have ruined my first test (see #1 Carmen below) but, I salvaged the charcoal and used it on the Test #2.
October 06, 2024: Today, I've decided to try my first piece of primitive pottery fire. My hypotheses is that it could work but, I do have various concerns. So, I decided to treat it as a science experiment and document each step. Keep an eye on this specific post. I will update subsequent firings, here.
Introduction
I've harvested wild clay from the back yard and allowed it to dry for several days. Instead of a coffee can, I've drilled aeration holes in a wider peanut can. I have made several small pottery-like pieces, intended to be used as temporary plant pots but, after some creative experiments, I've decided to use them as a learning opportunity for something more permanent. I have no direct experience with firing wild clay but, I have been researching online for a few weeks.
It's October in Southern California and, while it's notably cooler at night, you might not know it. For about a week, we have seen 100F+ temperatures nearly every day. Fire danger is always a concern but, I intend on being as safe as possible. I will light the can inside of the barbecue grill, and can close the lid if necessary. A high of 102F is forecasted for, today.
Preparation
I repurposed a tin can and bought some charcoal briquettes. I was hoping to get a few pieces in this can, as it is wider than a coffee can but, it's not much taller. So, I may just do one at a time.
I have seen some people preheat their pots in a home oven, or around an open fire pit, to prevent the drastic change in temperature, that might encourage cracking. I would hypothesize that it will get hot enough in the sun to prevent any kind of shock. Also, these pieces tend to be thicker than most of the pottery I've seen. This may help or hurt in the long run.
General Hypothesis
I believe that this "coffee can method" will successfully oxidize the clay, making it durable enough to resist water. It will also create a "finished" look to make it more appealing. The clay had more grit than I would have liked, even though I sifted it. I added some sifted sand to the second batch and wonder if I added too much. They have all held up well in the sun, and have hardened evenly in multiple days of 100F+ weather. When I learned about the coffee can firing method, it included the use of lighter fluid. I want to keep it as natural as possible. This may make it more difficult to light but, I will add some paper and cardboard to increase flammability.