What to Remember from this Tutorial

Here’s a summary of the most important points from this tutorial:

• Thermal shock is caused by uneven heating.
• Your risk of thermal shock varies from one piece to another and from one kiln to another. That’s why you cannot reliably use generic firing schedules without understanding them.
• Size, shape color, iridized surfaces and metal inclusions all help determine the risk for thermal shock to your glass.
• There are a number of steps you can take to reduce risk of thermal shock. The most reliable and easiest step is to slow down the firing.
• Other ways to reduce risk of thermal shock include using a kiln with elements in the lid, positioning your work near the center of the kiln shelf, and baffling the heat from side elements with kiln-furniture or other suitable materials.

And don’t forget to slow down 🙂