[Originally posted to the Gallery MemberConnect list 10/14/22]
I see there are many diverse suggestions online for testing pottery in the microwave. I always put it in empty ALONG WITH a Pyrex measuring cup with a cup of water. That way the water absorbs the microwaves. (You probably know you don’t want to operate a microwave without water or food in it.)
I don’t put the test water in the mug because then the heated water will heat up the mug and make it harder to tell if the mug is heating up by itself. The real question people usually want to know is if the handle heats up. I have a couple of handmade mugs fired to cone 10 that get too hot in the microwave, and I think it may be due to a high metal content in the clay or glaze.
If anyone more experienced than me wants to weigh in on this, please do!
Wanda Ferrin