To harden the beautifully shaped pot created on the pottery wheel at a very high temperature, Laura should use a technique called "firing" or "kiln firing." Here's how it works:
1. **Drying:** After shaping the pot on the pottery wheel, it needs to be allowed to dry slowly and completely. This phase typically involves air drying for several days to remove moisture from the clay.
2. **Bisque Firing:** The first firing is called the "bisque firing." In this stage, the dried pot is placed in a kiln and fired at a relatively low temperature, typically between 1,800°F to 2,100°F (1,000°C to 1,150°C). This firing hardens the clay, making it more durable and less porous. It's still porous enough to absorb glazes and other surface treatments.
3. **Glazing:** If desired, Laura can apply glazes or decorative finishes to the bisque-fired pot to add color and texture.
4. **Glaze Firing:** The pot is then placed back in the kiln for a second firing, known as the "glaze firing." This firing is done at a higher temperature, typically around 2,200°F to 2,400°F (1,200°C to 1,320°C), depending on the type of glazes used. The glaze firing melts the glazes and fuses them to the pot's surface, creating a glossy and decorative finish.
5. **Cooling:** After the second firing, the kiln is allowed to cool slowly to room temperature. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracking due to thermal shock.
By using the kiln firing technique, Laura can harden her pottery creation at a very high temperature, making it durable and suitable for various practical or decorative purposes.