Ernest Miller FAQ

Process & Philosophy | Biography | Teaching | Faq’s

How long does it take to fire the pieces?
About 3 days to heat and cool.

How are the crystals formed?

The crystals are formed during a slow cooling or holding of high temperatures.

What are the crystals made of?
They are composed of zinc. One of the ingredients in the glaze.

What kind of clay do you use?
Porcelain.

Do you make or buy your porcelain?
Sometimes I use porcelain from ART Clay Company or I make it with ingredients from Continental Clay Company.

How do you make the long narrow neck bottles?
I use a dowl rod and my finger tips.

Are the pieces food safe?
Most of my crystalline work is recommended for light use (fruit or cheese dish). Not for cooking your turkey in.

How hot do you fire?
2300 degrees Fahrenheit.

Does raku work hold water?
No, but some people apply polyurethane to the inside of the finished pieces to make them water tight.

Do you mix your own glazes?
Yes. You can not find these at Wal-Mart, at least so far.

If I stuck my wet head in a hot kiln, how fast would it dry my hair?
No comment. Go seek professional help.