For thousands of years wood was the only fuel used to fire pottery. Large quantities of wood and many hours of constant stoking are required to achieve desired results. Because it's a solid fuel, wood has characteristics which dramatically affect the color and texture of the pots. Each type of wood emits different chemical vapors during combustion. As these gases are carried throughout the pot chamber, they react with the clay surfaces creating a wide range of flashing colors. This effect, combined with the melting of ash deposits gives wood-fired pottery its distinctive look. Often no additional glaze is applied to the pottery prior to being loaded in the kiln. The resulting effects are a creation of the fire itself.  Each piece is unique and carries the fire's distinct signature.    Firing Video