1. Ceramics Basic Vocabulary

2. 5 Stages of Clay Wet /slip Leather-hard Bone dry/ Greenware
Soft Leather-hard stage
this is the time to make repairs
clay is stiff enough to hold its shape, but can still be GENTLY bent
Hard Leather-hard stage
clay will crack if bent
perfect for carving
Bone dry/ Greenware
Clay is very fragile in this stage
Bisque (1st Fire)
Clay undergoes chemical change & is now CERAMIC
Glaze fired

3. Slip vs. Glaze Slip is watered-down clay
Used as a “glue” when joining pieces
Also used as a decorative element or surface treatment
Apply slip BEFORE firing
A more complex chemical combination
When fired, becomes a thin layer of glass
Apply AFTER bisque fire
Pay attention to labels on glaze!
Dinnerware safe?
Correct cone?

4. Cone firing range

5. Differences in clay Types of clay we use: Shrinkage rates
White earthenware
Red earthenware
Raku
Stoneware
Porcelain
Shrinkage rates
Firing temperatures
yes, clay will melt if fired too high!

6. Wedging Clay Kneading the clay Removes air bubbles
Thoroughly mixes clay

7. “Scratch & Slurry” Scratch both parts to be joined
Apply slip (slurry) or water to scratched areas and press together
Smooth a coil into the joint for extra strength

8. Drape Mold Select item to be used for mold
Be sure to cover w/cloth or paper!
Roll out slab & drape over or into mold
Be mindful of the shape of the mold
Undercuts will make it difficult or impossible to remove the mold without damage
Will the clay crack as it shrinks in/on the mold?

9. Things to do to avoid confusion, the ruin of your work, and the annoyance of the teacher
ALWAYS sign your work
When your work is ready to fire, put it in the appropriate area
Clean up after yourself, including the sink area, bats, boards, tools, table, etc.