Building the Kiln

• 1). Choose a location for the barrel kiln that is clear of fire hazards such as trees and long grass. Place fire bricks on the ground.
  
  
• 2). Cut a hole in the side of the 55-gallon drum near the base using the reciprocating saw. The size of the hole should allow the chimney pipe to be inserted and fit tightly.
  
  
• 3). Drill holes through the drum and connector plate around the chimney pipe hole. Insert bolts into the drilled holes. Screw on the nuts onto the bolts to fasten the chimney pipe to the drum. Tighten the nuts with a wrench.
  
  
• 4). Set the drum on the fire bricks. Adjust the chimney so that it is vertical and secure.
  
  

Loading the Kiln

• 1). Place a layer of wood, straw and kindling in the bottom of the kiln. Wrap the pottery with the chemically treated rags.
  
  
• 2). Nestle the pottery into the pile of wood, straw and kindling. Insert more wood vertically into the drum. Gently fill the rest of the drum with wood, straw and kindling ending with a large layer of straw.
  
  
• 3). Light the straw. Allow the kiln to burn uncovered until the flames die down and there are mostly glowing coals. Lay the steel pipe on top of the drum near one edge. Set the lid on top of the drum. The steel pipe will keep the lid lifted slightly to allow air to flow in the top, down the drum and out the chimney.
  
  
• 4). Let the drum burn until it self-extinguishes.