Inside the Electric Kiln: A Firing, Loading & Troubleshooting Intensive - Feb. 27

Inside the Electric Kiln: A Firing, Loading & Troubleshooting Intensive Learn what actually happens inside an electric kiln, from firing schedules and cones to kiln loading, maintenance, and troubleshooting. Saturday, February 27, 2027 · 11 AM–4 PM Sooki Studio · Frogtown, Los Angeles 15 spots available This five-hour intensive takes an in-depth look at the technical and practical aspects of electric kiln firing. Through demonstrations, group discussions, and collaborative troubleshooting exercises, we'll explore how to make informed decisions at every stage of the firing process. We'll examine real-world examples of unsuccessful firings, investigate common loading mistakes, and work together to understand what may have gone wrong and how to approach things differently. The workshop is intentionally kept small to encourage questions, shared experiences, and thoughtful discussion. Whether you're new to electric kilns or have years of firing experience, this is an opportunity to deepen your understanding, build confidence, and develop practical problem-solving skills. The Intensive Part I: Understanding Electric Kilns 11:00 AM–12:15 PM We'll begin with the fundamentals of electric kiln firing, including how kilns work, their components, controllers, firing schedules, cones, heatwork, and the differences between bisque and glaze firings. We'll also discuss kiln safety, maintenance, and how firing decisions affect finished work. Questions and discussion are encouraged throughout. Part II: Kiln Loading Demonstrations 12:15–1:15 PM Through instructor-led demonstrations, we'll explore how to prepare and load an electric kiln for both bisque and glaze firings. We'll discuss shelf placement, kiln furniture, spacing, loading larger and sculptural work, maximizing kiln space, and preventing glaze accidents. We'll examine not only how to load a kiln, but why different loading decisions matter. Lunch Break 1:15–1:45 PM We'll take a 30-minute break. Bring your own lunch or grab something nearby. Part III: Collaborative Troubleshooting 1:45–3:15 PM We'll put our knowledge into practice through a series of real-world firing and loading scenarios. Working in small groups, students will examine examples of unsuccessful firings, identify potential causes, and discuss how they might approach the situation differently. We'll then come together to share ideas, compare solutions, and work through each scenario as a class. This is an opportunity to learn from mistakes, ask questions, and develop the critical thinking skills needed to troubleshoot your own firings. Part IV: Maintenance, Prevention & Open Discussion 3:15–4:00 PM We'll finish by discussing kiln maintenance, common repairs, preventative care, and troubleshooting equipment issues, with time for remaining questions. Three Ways to Register $185 — Community Rate For those who need a more accessible price point. $210 — Standard Rate For those able to pay the standard workshop price. $235 — Sustaining Rate For those able to contribute a little more to help support accessible programming. Limited to 15 students. Come curious. Leave confident. Whether you're preparing to fire your first kiln or looking to refine years of experience, this intensive offers a space to ask questions, learn from others, and develop a deeper understanding of the firing process. No previous kiln experience is required. All experience levels are welcome. Sign Required Student Waiver Instructor This workshop is led by Sooki Studio founder Natalia Ira Sookias, who has over a decade of teaching experience, from kindergarten through graduate-level students, across the U.S. and Europe. She has studied at CalArts, Central Saint Martins, Penland School of Craft and the Prince's School of Traditional Arts in London. Health, Safety + Accessibility To help keep our space safe and accessible, masks (N95 or KN95) are required for all workshops. Please bring your own; extras are available at the studio. Masks help protect against airborne illness as well as clay and glaze dust. Our studio is fully ADA accessible. The supply store and restroom are accessed by three steps, with a portable accessibility ramp available upon request. Please reach out ahead of your visit with any accessibility questions or requests so we can best accommodate your needs. Email: info@sooki.studio