Thanks for the tips. Good to know we all overthink things. I have kaowool on the way 1" to double up and ditching the other stuffl. Kaowool, satanite, and refractory cement 3000 degree rated lowes do all brand. Just a skim Coat I also have small kiln shelf. I think the wife is just as excited she did a lot of glass work previously and would like to do so again.