Appendix 3 - Kiln Wash

When there is build up of melted enamel on the kiln shelf, or the kiln wash becomes uneven, loose, flaky or has worn away, it will need to be cleaned and kiln wash reapplied.

If the kiln shelf is hot, let it cool completely before scraping it clean.

Once the kiln shelf is cooled, thoroughly spray the shelf saturating it with water. (This helps minimize any dust created while scraping.)

Using a metal scraper, scrape the wash into the garbage, completely removing any and all enamel, dried and/or wet kiln wash. Then wipe it down with a wet cloth or paper towel. (Using a wet cloth or paper towel cuts down on dust going into the air.)

Once all the kiln wash is removed, the kiln shelf is ready to have the kiln wash reapplied.

Items needed to mix kiln wash: A plastic container, a plastic/silicone spoon or silicone spatula, water, a wide soft bristle paint brush and a dust mask. Make sure the items will not be reused for food or drinking.

CAUTION: Hazard. Kiln wash is a fine, silica powder. Protect your lungs by wearing a dust mask while scooping kiln wash out of the container it comes in.

Follow the directions to mix the kiln wash. Less is more. You can always mix more if you need to. It is not something that can be reused.

Before applying the wash to the shelf, dampen the shelf with water using a wrung out paper towel, cloth or sponge. This will help minimize the wash from absorbing and drying too quickly as it's being applied to the shelf.

Dip a wide, soft bristle paint brush into the wash, grabbing as much wash onto the brush as it will allow. No need to scrape the brush before applying the wash to the shelf.

Liberally apply the wash in long even strokes, "painting" it one direction. Once the shelf is evenly coated, carefully clean up any wash that has dripped along the sides or bottom of the shelf with a clean damp cloth or paper towel.

Allow the wash to dry to the touch and then reapply a second coat in the opposite direction you applied the first coat. If needed, clean up the sides and bottom of the shelf, again.

Allow the freshly kiln washed shelf to dry thoroughly before firing in the kiln. Kiln wash is darker in color + feels damp when it's still wet. Dried wash is lighter in color + feels bone dry when it's thoroughly dry.