What should be included in a firing logbook?

One of the easiest ways to learn about your kiln is to keep a firing logbook. If you are firing the kiln for the first time in several months, you can review your logbook to regain a quick “feel” for the kiln. The logbook is vital if you are experimenting with glazes or other materials. Paragon prints Ramp-Hold and Cone-Fire firing records for digital kilns. You can download them from this website. Select “Support,” and then “Instruction Manuals” from the drop menu. You can use those firing records even for manual kilns. Keep them in a 3-ring notebook. You can also record a lot of information with a simple sketch. Draw a diagram showing shelf spacing inside the kiln including the height of posts; the type of ware on each shelf; a sketch of pyrometric cones showing how they bent; and a description of firing results on each shelf, such as the color of glazes. By sketching the bent cones, you won’t need to store the cones.