Kiln Shelves / Kiln Batts
Kiln shelves, often referred to as kiln batts, form the essential load-bearing surface inside your kiln to support your pottery ware throughout the firing process. As part of a wider kiln furniture set-up, batts must withstand repeated exposure to high temperatures while remaining stable, flat and durable. At Potclays, we offer a wide range of refractory kiln shelves in various shapes and sizes, suitable for many kiln types. Please browse our range below.
What are Kiln Shelves?
Kiln shelves are refractory slabs placed in the kiln chamber to hold ware during the firing process. They are designed to resist thermal shock, maintain structural integrity at high temperatures, and distribute heat evenly across their surfaces, helping potters achieve reliable, consistent results.
A quality kiln shelf is essential for protecting the kiln floor, maximising available space and ensuring projects fire safely and efficiently. As they are exposed to repeated heating cycles, glaze drips, and varied loading pressure, selecting durable, high-quality kiln batts can significantly extend the lifespan of your kiln and kiln furniture while also improving day-to-day firing performance.
Types of Kiln Batts
We stock a comprehensive range of kiln batts to suit various models and firing requirements, from compact square shelves to wide, full-round options for larger kilns.
Full Round Kiln Shelves
Ideal for top-loading kilns and circular chambers, these shelves offer excellent heat distribution and a flat, stable surface for a full stack of ware.
They can withstand high temperatures while remaining resistant to warping. Featuring a generous firing area, they are suitable for everything from small bowls to wide plates, as well as production batches ready for sale.
Half Round Kiln Shelves
Half-round kiln shelves provide flexibility, particularly in split-level arrangements or staggered stacking systems. They are a popular choice for potters looking to optimise airflow or those who require adjustable layouts to accommodate a broader range of loads.
With sizes suited to medium and large top-loading kilns, they offer the balance, stability and adaptability required for a variety of studio practices.
Rectangular Kiln Shelves
Rectangular options are widely used in electric front-loading kilns, studio kilns and teaching environments. With a straightforward shape, they are easy to position, stack, and support with kiln props, helping potters make the most of their available internal space.
Square Kiln Shelves
Square kiln shelves can be used in both electric and gas kilns where a balanced, even distribution is required. Their symmetrical design makes stacking simple and helps to maintain a predictable heating environment for bisque, glaze and stoneware firings.
Why Choose Potclays?
At Potclays, we've supplied high-quality kilns, kiln furniture and pottery tools and accessories - as well as much more - to generations of creators. All of our products are selected for durability and performance, supporting reliable results in every one of your projects.
Need help picking the right kiln shelf? Our expert team has comprehensive product knowledge and is committed to supporting potters of all levels. Get in touch with us today, we're happy to be of assistance.
