First layer of hard brick.

Why did I decide on the kiln design I am doing? First of all I was going to do a 7-10 square foot kiln. I wanted something small both for build cost reasons, cost of running the kiln, and so I didn't have monster size loads to get ruined while I experiment. Soda firing is new to me and I know I will have plenty of loads that won't go so well as I get the kinks worked out. The idea of losing a smaller load of work rather than a larger load sounds better. At the same time, I am planning on becoming successful at this so I want a kiln that will be functional once I have everything going as planned. I enjoy making large pieces and I'd like them to actually fit in my new kiln! Anything less than about 15 cubic feet and the design for Matthew's back yard soda kiln is the only way to go. Initially this was the design and size I was leaning towards but I decided I needed it just a little larger and I got all those "key" shaped IFB that would easily make an arch. Joe Finch's design for a small kiln is straightforward and with his brick layout, about 15 square feet is as small as it can go. What I decided to make is closest to this design.
As I build the kiln I'll try and explain why I made some of my choices.
Here's a quick picture of my son putting in the last cinder block for me on the base. LOL, he said since he carried them all over from the other side of the yard he should get the credit for building the base! I'm just glad he is willing to help with the massive amount of heavy lifting building this kiln takes.

We got the ceramic fiber blanket layer down. Not sure it matters how the blanket was laid so I pieced to use it as efficiently as possible. I am hoping to have enough left to add a layer on the arch at the top of the kiln.

Next came the first layer of hard brick. I drew out brick placement by layer on graph paper at least through the firebox level.

The rain came and hasn't stopped so the build is on hold until the weather improves. Threw a tarp over to keep everything dry. I am planning on building a cover too.