Clay Pittsburgh's Position
At the moment, Clay Pittsburgh does not own a building, or kilns, and cannot offer firing services, but we understand that of all the challenges facing potters who want to transition out of the classroom and into a more independent working environment, firing and glazes are the largest stumbling block.
We are looking into ways to meet those needs. As part of that process we have researched and listed some options below.
If you have thoroughly explored those options and are still wanting, then please fill out the questionnaire at the bottom of this page and inform Clay Pittsburgh of the issues you are facing. We will, in turn, apply for grant money and proceed to do what we can to help you. Likewise, please tell us if you found what you needed so we can share that information on this page.
Current firing options that we know about in Pittsburgh
This information is accurate as of May 2024.
The Union Project offers classes, memberships, studio access, and firing service. They are a nonprofit and their mission statement may be found on their website.
The say on their website, “Our on-site kilns include:
- 1 Bailey 12 cu ft Gas Kiln
- 1 Laguna Raku Kiln
- 1 Soda Kiln
- 3 9.9 cu ft Skutt Electric Kilns
- 1 5.25 cu ft Amaco/Excel Electric Kiln
- Kiln Rental: We have four types of kiln: Raku, soda, electric, and high fire gas reduction. Our soda kiln was designed and built by Ted Neal. We offer kiln rental for any of our kilns (Raku, soda, electric, and gas) to people outside of our members. Artists can drop off work created outside UP studios to have it fired. Kiln rentals must be scheduled in advance. Kiln rentals include access to our Cone 6 studio glazes. For more information, contact maddie@unionproject.org
Pittsburgh Center for Art and Media:
PCA&M (Pittsburgh Center for Art and Media) also offers classes, memberships, studio access, and firing services. They are an Arts nonprofit and more information about their organization can be found on their website
They say on their website, “Our 3000 square foot ceramics studio is open 7 days a week for member access. The studio is equipped with 14 wheels, individual storage space for each artist, work tables, a glaze room, and three electric kilns. We also have a kiln shed which holds an atmospheric firing soda kiln and a high-fire, down draft, gas kiln. We sell Standard brand clay on site and firing costs are included with clay purchases. Studio staff handle all firings. Membership is offered on two levels after one has successfully completed classes with us. There may be a waitlist for membership.
Please contact our Ceramics Studio Coordinator, Audra Clayton at aclayton@pghartsmedia.org or 412-361-0455 x 3 to begin the process of becoming an access member or for more information.”
The owner, Blake Anthony, repairs kilns, is a potter, has a gallery, and offers classes and firing services. You can rent a whole 1227 kiln and fire to cone 6 for $80. You can contact him at pittsburghpottery@gmail.com.
Kiln Share Website
This is a website where anyone can advertise their kiln firing services. It is global, so wherever you are you can search for firing services near you. You can also list your kiln here if you wish to offer firing services. Read more
Touchstone:
Touchstone is an art center about 60 miles southeast of Pittsburgh. They offer wood fire workshops where you bring pottery and participate in all aspects of the firing. Contact them for more information.
Classes:
A common way to gain access to firing is to take a pottery class. Each facility has their own policy. Typically the work must be made in class and glazes are provided. Bringing work made elsewhere can be problematic.
Setting Up Your One Studio:
The may sound like a great idea. Here are some of the pros, cons and expenses. Read More
Fueling Creativity: Clay Pittsburgh’s Kiln Fund
It Ain’t Done ‘Till It’s Fired! Please donate to Clay Pittsburgh’s GoFundMe campaign to purchase two kilns. Read More
Electric Kiln Repair
Blake Anthony is really competent and reliable. He is the best in town.
(412) 613-9233