Spring is finally here, and that means It’s time to get outside! Even though we didn’t get a lot of snow this winter in Connecticut, the winter months still brought bitterly cold temperatures. Of course, we were also dealing with the lingering effects of the global pandemic, which limited the number of indoor activities available.
However, now that the days are getting longer and the sun has re-emerged, we should take advantage of every opportunity to be outside in the fresh air, enjoying all of the natural beauty that our state has to offer.
First and foremost, being outdoors brings a sense of calm and happiness. Have you ever noticed how much less stressed you are when you feel the sun on your skin and you take a deep breath of fresh air, taking in all of the sights, sounds, and smells around you? After being cooped up for so many months, there’s really nothing better than indulging our senses in the environment around us.
Second, being outside in the fresh air is beneficial to both our physical and mental health. Research has shown that being outdoors can improve your mood, make you more focused and help you concentrate better, and because the sunlight increases the production of Vitamin D in your body, it can also help give your immune system a boost – which is something we all need, given the times we’re living in!
After a long winter of worries and so many uncertainties over the past year, things are finally starting to look up. More and more people are receiving their COVID-19 vaccinations, and even though we’re still wearing masks and practicing social distancing, we’re hopeful that the worst part of this pandemic is behind us.
Now that the weather is cooperating and we can be outside, there’s no better time than to pay us a visit to fire some pots! We should take each and every opportunity we can to take advantage of having outdoor experiences with others.
We have such a strong passion for wood firing here at Canton Clayworks. It’s an activity that brings a sense of togetherness, and after firing pots, those who participate feel such a sense of pride in the beautiful, unique piece of art they’ve created. It also fosters a sense of community, as people can come together to be a part of something unique.
During a wood firing session, you will actually engage with the life of the fire. Did you know that a wood kiln inhales and exhales? As we stoke the wood, it releases gasses that require oxygen to combust, inhaling the needed air through a port we call primary air.
We make adaptations to the exit air by the means of a damper, causing the flame to exhale the kiln through blowholes. At times, these flames exiting the kiln can be 3-4 feet in length. We focus on the length and color of this dramatic exiting flame, determining the degree of reduction (consumption of oxygen) inside the kiln. The drama is unbelievably exciting and engaging.
We promise it’s an experience you won’t soon forget!
Here’s our latest upcoming wood firing schedule:
Firing Dates:
April 20-25 Climbing Train Kiln
Unloading: May 2, at 10:00a.m.
May 19-23 Naborigama
Unloading: May 30, at 10:00a.m.
June 22-27 Climbing Train Kiln
Unloading: July 3, at 10:00a.m.
July 28- August 1 Naborigama
Unloading: August 8, at 10a.m.
September 1-5 Naborigama
Unloading: September 10, at 10:00a.m.
Whether you’ve visited us before or this is your first time with wood firing, we can’t wait to see you and to have you experience this wonderful activity with us.
For more details and information please visit cantonclayworks.com, or give us a call at
860-693-1000. Feel free to email us at cantonclayworks@yahoo.com