Pit Firing Ceramic Vessels at the Beach: A Creative Adventure

Imagine the sound of waves crashing, the warmth of the sun on your skin, and the exhilarating scent of salt in the air—all while you create beautiful, one-of-a-kind ceramic pieces right at the beach. Students can join us at the upcoming Beach Pit Firing Course by EAC. Pit firing is a traditional ceramic technique that allows you to experiment with unique finishes and colors, and when paired with the natural elements of the seaside, it becomes an unforgettable creative retreat. Here’s how to embark on this exciting artistic adventure!

Vase made in a Beach Pit Firing

What is Beach Pit Firing Ceramics? Pit firing is one of the oldest known methods of firing pottery. It involves digging a pit in the ground, placing your ceramic vessels inside, and surrounding them with combustible materials, like wood shavings, leaves, and other organic items. The fire created in the pit creates heat that transforms the clay, while the materials used can produce stunning, unpredictable surface effects.

Preparing Your Clay- Before heading to the beach, students will create ceramic vessels using hand-building techniques. Our staff will make sure that your pieces are thoroughly dried and bisque-fired to ensure their structural integrity during the firing process. Designs can be as simple or elaborate as you like—consider incorporating textures or embellishments for added visual interest.

Vessels are placed in the flames and brought to temperature

Setting Up Your Pit- For our Beach Pit Firing Course, we will meet at Dockweiler Beach where the class will utilize the fire pits. We will further dig out the pit in the sand, approximately two to three feet wide and a foot deep. This will serve as the foundation for the pit fire. Students will place their ceramic vessels at the bottom of the pit, ensuring they are securely positioned. We will then surround them with combustible materials, layering them thoughtfully to encourage good airflow and an even burn.

Firing Process- Once your vessels are arranged and surrounded by materials, it’s time to ignite the fire. The class will use kindling to start the fire, and as it catches, gradually add larger pieces of wood or other combustibles. The fire will go for several hours, ensuring that it produces enough heat to fire your vessels.

Cooling and Unpacking- After the fire burns down and the flames have subsided, the pit will cool completely. Depending on the ambient temperature and wind conditions, this can take a couple of hours. Once cool, staff will carefully remove your vessels. The excitement of revealing your pieces is well worth the wait!

Structures of many types, both functional and non-functional can be pit fired!

Enjoying Your Creations- The results of your pit firing can be a delightful surprise! Expect a beautiful array of colors and patterns, influenced by the elements and materials used in your firing process. Each piece is unique, showcasing the one-of-a-kind nature of pit firing. These ceramics can be used as functional ware or simply as beautiful decorative pieces. Join us for our upcoming Beach Pit Firing Course and make a piece of your own!