Pottery: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Buy a Potter's Wheel
There are a number of variables you need to consider before making the big decision as to the purchase of your own potter's wheel. Find out more here.
There are a number of variables you need to consider before making the big decision as to the purchase of your own potter's wheel. Find out more here.
Slab Pots 101
Hand building slab pots has a strong history in certain parts of the world. It can be done while the slabs are either soft or stiff. Building with slabs can also be done using slump or drape molds.
Hand building slab pots has a strong history in certain parts of the world. It can be done while the slabs are either soft or stiff. Building with slabs can also be done using slump or drape molds.
How to Bisque Fire Pottery
Tells how you bisque fire pottery, including discussion on the best type of kiln to use, what temperature to choose, and the usual firing schedule or ramp.
Tells how you bisque fire pottery, including discussion on the best type of kiln to use, what temperature to choose, and the usual firing schedule or ramp.
Basics of Building Coil Pots
Coil pot construction techniques are able to be learned quickly. Even those new to making pottery are able to produce large and intriguing pottery using the coil method of hand building.
Coil pot construction techniques are able to be learned quickly. Even those new to making pottery are able to produce large and intriguing pottery using the coil method of hand building.
Pinch Pots 101
Creating pottery through the pinch pot method has been one of the two major techniques used to produce pottery throughout human history. Discover the value of pinch pots today and the various types of pottery can the pinching method produce.
Creating pottery through the pinch pot method has been one of the two major techniques used to produce pottery throughout human history. Discover the value of pinch pots today and the various types of pottery can the pinching method produce.
Making Clay Slabs
Making the clay slabs is the first step in all slab-built pottery construction. This is an important foundation; mistakes made in the creation of slabs may destroy the piece in later stages of construction.
Making the clay slabs is the first step in all slab-built pottery construction. This is an important foundation; mistakes made in the creation of slabs may destroy the piece in later stages of construction.
Five Ways to Apply Glazes
Glazes can be applied to pottery in five main ways. These are dipping, pouring, brushing, sponging, and spraying the glaze on.
Glazes can be applied to pottery in five main ways. These are dipping, pouring, brushing, sponging, and spraying the glaze on.
Glaze Temperature Ranges
There are specific temperature ranges for firing glazes; individual glazes will mature within one of those five ranges. If the glazes are fired at too low a temperature, the glaze will not mature. If the temperature goes too high, the glaze will become too melted and run off the surface of the pottery. For success, a potter must know their glazes' temperature ranges at which they become mature.
There are specific temperature ranges for firing glazes; individual glazes will mature within one of those five ranges. If the glazes are fired at too low a temperature, the glaze will not mature. If the temperature goes too high, the glaze will become too melted and run off the surface of the pottery. For success, a potter must know their glazes' temperature ranges at which they become mature.
Basic Hand Building Techniques
Before potters had the wheel, they were creating spectacular pots and clay forms. Using clay, their hands, and a minimum of tools they brought function and artistry together. Here are the three most common forms of producing hand built pots.
Before potters had the wheel, they were creating spectacular pots and clay forms. Using clay, their hands, and a minimum of tools they brought function and artistry together. Here are the three most common forms of producing hand built pots.
How Temperature Changes Clay
As a kiln is firing up and cooling down, the changes in temperature make some profound changes in the clay.
As a kiln is firing up and cooling down, the changes in temperature make some profound changes in the clay.
Basic Pottery Tools
An overview of the basic tools potters use in throwing and hand building with clay.
An overview of the basic tools potters use in throwing and hand building with clay.
Make a Basic Slab Pot
Creating pots with slabs is probably the most technically challenging of the hand building techniques. Because of the structural stresses, it is important to create good seals and welds between slabs.
Creating pots with slabs is probably the most technically challenging of the hand building techniques. Because of the structural stresses, it is important to create good seals and welds between slabs.
Clay Basics
What is clay? What types of clay are there? Here is some basic information for you to understand the different types of clays used in pottery.
What is clay? What types of clay are there? Here is some basic information for you to understand the different types of clays used in pottery.
Decorating Basics
An overview of the different ways pottery and clay objects can be decorated.
An overview of the different ways pottery and clay objects can be decorated.
Pottery and Ceramic Supplies
Most of us no longer go out and dig our own materials as a matter of course. The vast majority of modern potters order our potter and ceramic supplies from wholesale and retail suppliers. Here is a list of some of the online retailers of pottery and ceramics supplies.
Most of us no longer go out and dig our own materials as a matter of course. The vast majority of modern potters order our potter and ceramic supplies from wholesale and retail suppliers. Here is a list of some of the online retailers of pottery and ceramics supplies.
Overview of the Firing Process
It is important to have an overview of the firing process. Firing clay transforms it from its humble, soft beginnings into a new substance, ceramic. Ceramics are tough, strong, and very similar in some ways to stone. Pieces of pottery have survived for thousands of years, all due to clay that met fire.
It is important to have an overview of the firing process. Firing clay transforms it from its humble, soft beginnings into a new substance, ceramic. Ceramics are tough, strong, and very similar in some ways to stone. Pieces of pottery have survived for thousands of years, all due to clay that met fire.
Slip Decoration Part 2
Decorating pottery can be done using the sgraffito technique of incising down through slip.
Decorating pottery can be done using the sgraffito technique of incising down through slip.
Ceramic and Glaze Colorants
Ceramic and glaze colorants follow some basic principals. These principals not only deal with the ceramic colorants themselves, but also the composition of the glazes and how they are fired.
Ceramic and glaze colorants follow some basic principals. These principals not only deal with the ceramic colorants themselves, but also the composition of the glazes and how they are fired.
Three Ways to Wedge Clay
Three of the most popular methods to wedge your clay are the cut and slap method, cylinder wedging, and cone wedging.
Three of the most popular methods to wedge your clay are the cut and slap method, cylinder wedging, and cone wedging.
Firing Schedules
Kilns are fired according to firing schedules, which include how long the kiln will be firing at a certain ramp, or rate of temperature gain.
Kilns are fired according to firing schedules, which include how long the kiln will be firing at a certain ramp, or rate of temperature gain.
Objects Used to Impress Clay
Many objects can be used to make impressions in clay, not just tools specifically made for making impressions.
Many objects can be used to make impressions in clay, not just tools specifically made for making impressions.
Slip Decoration Part 1
There are many interesting and diverse pottery decorating techniques involving the use of slips. Effects range from very linear to very textural, and from very fluid to quite hard-edged. This is Part 1 of 2 describing these techniques.
There are many interesting and diverse pottery decorating techniques involving the use of slips. Effects range from very linear to very textural, and from very fluid to quite hard-edged. This is Part 1 of 2 describing these techniques.
2009 Pottery Projects
Monthly pottery projects to help you build your skills as a potter and explore new territory with clay.
Monthly pottery projects to help you build your skills as a potter and explore new territory with clay.
How to Choose a Clay
There are so many choices of pottery clays, it can be baffling. How do you choose which clay is right for you and your pottery needs?
There are so many choices of pottery clays, it can be baffling. How do you choose which clay is right for you and your pottery needs?
What is Throwing?
What is throwing on the pottery wheel? How does throwing on the pottery wheel work?
What is throwing on the pottery wheel? How does throwing on the pottery wheel work?
Start Out With Clay
Creating pottery can be a mild interest or a consuming joy. In either case, beginning to work with clay is an adventure. Here are answers to some questions that you may have as how to begin creating with pottery.
Creating pottery can be a mild interest or a consuming joy. In either case, beginning to work with clay is an adventure. Here are answers to some questions that you may have as how to begin creating with pottery.
Make a Basic Pinch Pot
Pinch pots are fast and direct molding of a small pot. Step three is to pinch out the walls and floor of the pot.
Pinch pots are fast and direct molding of a small pot. Step three is to pinch out the walls and floor of the pot.
Your Clay Space
Working with clay requires certain things from the space we use. Here are some guidelines as to what you will need to consider when you are setting up your own pottery studio.
Working with clay requires certain things from the space we use. Here are some guidelines as to what you will need to consider when you are setting up your own pottery studio.
Center Clay on the Wheel
Basics of centering clay on the potter's wheel.
Basics of centering clay on the potter's wheel.
Amphora Decoration
Ancient Greek pottery black-figured amphora decorated with dancing satyrs and maenads.
Ancient Greek pottery black-figured amphora decorated with dancing satyrs and maenads.
Electric Potter's Wheels
In the thousands of years pottery has been practiced, one of the farthest reaching innovations was the introduction of electric-powered potter's wheels (pottery wheels). Electric potter's wheels allow potters to produce volumes of work even faster than before.
In the thousands of years pottery has been practiced, one of the farthest reaching innovations was the introduction of electric-powered potter's wheels (pottery wheels). Electric potter's wheels allow potters to produce volumes of work even faster than before.
How to Dip Glaze Pottery
Dipping pottery into glazes is one of the oldest methods of glaze application. It is still an easy and useful method today.
Dipping pottery into glazes is one of the oldest methods of glaze application. It is still an easy and useful method today.
What Are Underglazes
Underglazes are used in pottery to create designs and patterns that will come up through the glaze covering them, which can give the surface more visual depth and character.
Underglazes are used in pottery to create designs and patterns that will come up through the glaze covering them, which can give the surface more visual depth and character.
Throw a Flat-Sided Bowl
How to complete the bowl on the pottery wheel by compressing the rim and trimming the bowl.
How to complete the bowl on the pottery wheel by compressing the rim and trimming the bowl.
Make a Basic Coil Pot
Coiling has been used for millennia as a method of producing pottery and ceramic objects. It is still an extremely versatile technique for us today. The following project is an introduction to creating your own pottery with coils.
Coiling has been used for millennia as a method of producing pottery and ceramic objects. It is still an extremely versatile technique for us today. The following project is an introduction to creating your own pottery with coils.
For this project, you will need about 1/2 pound clay, a potter's needle or wooden trimming tool, and some water or slurry (dried clay bits dissolved into water).
Glaze Defects
Glaze defects can be caused by six situations. Find out more about those causes and the glaze defects they can produce.
Glaze defects can be caused by six situations. Find out more about those causes and the glaze defects they can produce.
Photographing Pottery
Knowing how to photograph pottery can make a sometimes frustrating experience into a rewarding one.
Knowing how to photograph pottery can make a sometimes frustrating experience into a rewarding one.
What Are Pottery & Ceramics?
What are pottery and ceramics? Is there a difference? Is everything made out of clay pottery? Here are the answers.
What are pottery and ceramics? Is there a difference? Is everything made out of clay pottery? Here are the answers.
Low-Fire Glaze Recipes
Recipes for low-fire pottery glazes.
Recipes for low-fire pottery glazes.
How to Throw or Pull Up Walls
The entire process of forming a pot out of clay on the potter's wheel is generally called throwing. There are several steps within that process, such as centering, opening, throwing the walls, and finalizing the form.
The entire process of forming a pot out of clay on the potter's wheel is generally called throwing. There are several steps within that process, such as centering, opening, throwing the walls, and finalizing the form.
Glaze Overview
An overview of what glazes are and their characteristics will be very helpful if you are new to them. Glazes are very diverse. Not only are there a wide variety of colors, but also of opacity, surfaces, and temperature ranges. Here we will look at an overview of that diversity.
An overview of what glazes are and their characteristics will be very helpful if you are new to them. Glazes are very diverse. Not only are there a wide variety of colors, but also of opacity, surfaces, and temperature ranges. Here we will look at an overview of that diversity.
Mayan Sun God, 1100-1300 AD
This pottery effigy urn is formed in the likeness of the Mayan Sun God. The ceramic piece is from the eastern Yucatan, Late Postclassic period.
This pottery effigy urn is formed in the likeness of the Mayan Sun God. The ceramic piece is from the eastern Yucatan, Late Postclassic period.
Make a Heart Picture Frame
Make a special heart picture frame from pottery to show that special someone that you love them or to display their picture. This frame can be customized to your needs and desires and will be able to be hung from the wall.
Make a special heart picture frame from pottery to show that special someone that you love them or to display their picture. This frame can be customized to your needs and desires and will be able to be hung from the wall.
Attic Amphora
Ancient Greek pottery amphora from Attica, made using the black-figure technique.
Ancient Greek pottery amphora from Attica, made using the black-figure technique.
Hand Building Clays
Hand building with clay is fun. Good hand building clays make the experience even better. What are the characteristics of a clay body that has been designed for hand building?
Hand building with clay is fun. Good hand building clays make the experience even better. What are the characteristics of a clay body that has been designed for hand building?
Vessel Shapes and Transitions
Pottery vessels usually derive from basic vessel forms, in which basic forms can be used together in one pot with transitions between areas.
Pottery vessels usually derive from basic vessel forms, in which basic forms can be used together in one pot with transitions between areas.
How to Use a Kiln Sitter
Kiln sitters are used in electric ceramic kilns as a fail-safe means of ending a firing once it has reached the target temperature, or slightly above. Once tripped, the kiln sitter automatically shuts off electrical current to the kiln elements.
Kiln sitters are used in electric ceramic kilns as a fail-safe means of ending a firing once it has reached the target temperature, or slightly above. Once tripped, the kiln sitter automatically shuts off electrical current to the kiln elements.
Aztec Vulture Vessel, 1300-1500 AD
An Aztec pottery vessel with vulture decoration. This ceramic piece is from between 1300 and 1500 AD.
An Aztec pottery vessel with vulture decoration. This ceramic piece is from between 1300 and 1500 AD.
Kiln Types by Construction
Kilns are basically containers for heat. In the most primitive forms, this could be nothing more than a trench or pit dug into the earth. Today, there are many different types of kilns. Here is an introduction to some of the most common types used for pottery and the ceramic arts.
Kilns are basically containers for heat. In the most primitive forms, this could be nothing more than a trench or pit dug into the earth. Today, there are many different types of kilns. Here is an introduction to some of the most common types used for pottery and the ceramic arts.
What Goes Into Glazes?
There four key types of components which are found in glazes. All of the various ingredients used in ceramic glazes fall into one (or more) of these categories.
There four key types of components which are found in glazes. All of the various ingredients used in ceramic glazes fall into one (or more) of these categories.
Use Your Kiln Safely
Learn about kiln safety, protective gear, ventilation, and gases emitted during firing.
Learn about kiln safety, protective gear, ventilation, and gases emitted during firing.
Electric Kiln Basics
Electric kilns have very specific requirements in regards to voltage, phase, and amperage. Find out more here, before buying or installing an electric kiln.
Electric kilns have very specific requirements in regards to voltage, phase, and amperage. Find out more here, before buying or installing an electric kiln.
Hydria
Ancient Greek pottery hydria, a jug specifically created to carry and pour water.
Ancient Greek pottery hydria, a jug specifically created to carry and pour water.
Lusters and Overglazes
Lusters, china paints, and overglazes are all glaze options that fire at very low (for pottery) temperatures.
Lusters, china paints, and overglazes are all glaze options that fire at very low (for pottery) temperatures.
Alabastron
Ancient Greek pottery alabastron, a long vessel most likely used to hold perfumed oils for use after bathing.
Ancient Greek pottery alabastron, a long vessel most likely used to hold perfumed oils for use after bathing.
Pyrometric Cones
What are pyrometric cones and how are they used in pottery? Here are the answers.
What are pyrometric cones and how are they used in pottery? Here are the answers.
Elements of 3-D Form
The major elements of any three dimensional form include shape, value, space, texture, line, color, and time and movement.
The major elements of any three dimensional form include shape, value, space, texture, line, color, and time and movement.
Oxidation and Reduction
Oxidation and reduction atmospheres are the two main kiln atmospheres possible when firing pottery. Both oxidation and reduction refer to the amount of oxygen available in the kiln while firing pottery.
Oxidation and reduction atmospheres are the two main kiln atmospheres possible when firing pottery. Both oxidation and reduction refer to the amount of oxygen available in the kiln while firing pottery.
Make a Slab-Built Pitcher
How to make a pottery pitcher using the slab building method.
How to make a pottery pitcher using the slab building method.
Refining Coil Pots
Once the initial coil pot has been formed, the surface and the walls can be refined through the paddle and anvil and the rib and hand techniques.
Once the initial coil pot has been formed, the surface and the walls can be refined through the paddle and anvil and the rib and hand techniques.
Bisque
Definition of bisque, bisqueware and bisque firing.
Definition of bisque, bisqueware and bisque firing.
Slip
The term "slip" as used in pottery.
The term "slip" as used in pottery.
Is Pottery Dangerous?
Is pottery dangerous? How dangerous is it doing pottery? What are the dangers to myself, to my children, pets, or home?
Is pottery dangerous? How dangerous is it doing pottery? What are the dangers to myself, to my children, pets, or home?
Firing Process for Low-Fire
The process of firing low-fire pottery, from dry greenware to finished pots.
The process of firing low-fire pottery, from dry greenware to finished pots.
Poisons in Pottery
There are poisons in pottery that potters need to be aware of. In this time of readily available information and safety equipment, it is only common sense to pay attention to what can harm yourself or those around you.
There are poisons in pottery that potters need to be aware of. In this time of readily available information and safety equipment, it is only common sense to pay attention to what can harm yourself or those around you.
Ceramic and Glaze Fluxes
Fluxes lower the melting point of the glass formers in glazes, clay bodies, and other ceramic materials.
Fluxes lower the melting point of the glass formers in glazes, clay bodies, and other ceramic materials.
Mayan Cylinder Vase with Deer
Mayan pottery cylinder vase with deer motif. This ceramic piece is probably from the Late Classic to Post-Classic period.
Mayan pottery cylinder vase with deer motif. This ceramic piece is probably from the Late Classic to Post-Classic period.
Make Handles for Pottery
You will want to make handles for many pots such as mugs, pitchers, teapots, and so on. Here are several ways to make handles that are commonly used in pottery.
You will want to make handles for many pots such as mugs, pitchers, teapots, and so on. Here are several ways to make handles that are commonly used in pottery.
Mid-Range & High-Fire Clays
What are mid-range and high-fire clay bodies? These clay bodies fall into two basic types, stoneware clay bodies and porcelain clay bodies.
What are mid-range and high-fire clay bodies? These clay bodies fall into two basic types, stoneware clay bodies and porcelain clay bodies.
Low-Fire Clay Bodies
Low-fire clays include red and white earthenware. low-fire clay bodies can be used for throwing and hand building pottery and ceramic sculptures.
Low-fire clays include red and white earthenware. low-fire clay bodies can be used for throwing and hand building pottery and ceramic sculptures.
Slumping and Draping Slabs
Two types of molds are used with clay slabs to create pottery.
Two types of molds are used with clay slabs to create pottery.
Finalize the Thrown Pot
Before it is taken off the potter's wheel, it is time to finalize the thrown form. Throwing the walls thins them, but there is much more that can be done to shape the form of the pot.
Before it is taken off the potter's wheel, it is time to finalize the thrown form. Throwing the walls thins them, but there is much more that can be done to shape the form of the pot.
Loutrophoros
Ancient Greek pottery loutrophoros, a vessel created to carry water during marriage and funeral ceremonies. This loutrophoros is thought to be by the Analatos Painter.
Ancient Greek pottery loutrophoros, a vessel created to carry water during marriage and funeral ceremonies. This loutrophoros is thought to be by the Analatos Painter.
Pyxis
Ancient Greek pottery pyxis, or cosmetic box, with lions, a goat, a bull and a swan.
Ancient Greek pottery pyxis, or cosmetic box, with lions, a goat, a bull and a swan.
Slab Build a Mug
Instructions for slab building a pottery mug.
Instructions for slab building a pottery mug.
Mayan Rain God Chac, 1200-1400 AD
Pottery urn in the image of the Mayan rain god, Chac. This ceramic piece is from Postclassical Mayapan.
Pottery urn in the image of the Mayan rain god, Chac. This ceramic piece is from Postclassical Mayapan.
Calyx-Krater
Ancient Greek pottery krater, a vessel used to mix water into wine, in the calyx, or flower-shaped, form.
Ancient Greek pottery krater, a vessel used to mix water into wine, in the calyx, or flower-shaped, form.
Mayan Vase with Noble, 600-900 AD
A Mayan pottery vase depicting a costumed noble. This ceramic piece was a burial offering.
A Mayan pottery vase depicting a costumed noble. This ceramic piece was a burial offering.
Campanian Kylix
Ancient Greek pottery kylix or drinking cup, circa. 400 - 350 BC.
Ancient Greek pottery kylix or drinking cup, circa. 400 - 350 BC.
How to Open Clay when Throwing
How you open the clay on the potter's wheel will effect the rest of the throwing process. If rushed or done with poor hand placement, the pot may be doomed to be off-center.
How you open the clay on the potter's wheel will effect the rest of the throwing process. If rushed or done with poor hand placement, the pot may be doomed to be off-center.
Mayan Figure from Huichol
Mayan pottery figure. This ceramic piece is from the Huichol area in present-day Mexico.
Mayan pottery figure. This ceramic piece is from the Huichol area in present-day Mexico.
How to Load a Kiln
Loading a kiln takes forethought and some knowledge in order to avoid destructive and expensive accidents.
Loading a kiln takes forethought and some knowledge in order to avoid destructive and expensive accidents.
Black Figure Amphora
Ancient Greek pottery black-figure amphora made in Athens about 520 - 500 BC.
Ancient Greek pottery black-figure amphora made in Athens about 520 - 500 BC.
Kyathos
Ancient Greek pottery kyathos or dipper showing Dionysus and a maenad.
Ancient Greek pottery kyathos or dipper showing Dionysus and a maenad.
Dinos
Ancient Greek pottery dinos, a large, deep bowl with a small, rounded lip and a rounded bottom.
Ancient Greek pottery dinos, a large, deep bowl with a small, rounded lip and a rounded bottom.
Throw a Basic Cylindrical Pot
How to throw a pot, especially a cylinder-shaped pot, is the foundation of working on the wheel. Take the time to build skills with cylinders; it will pay off as you eventually explore more complex forms.
How to throw a pot, especially a cylinder-shaped pot, is the foundation of working on the wheel. Take the time to build skills with cylinders; it will pay off as you eventually explore more complex forms.
How to Pull a Handle
Have you ever heard of pulling a handle for pottery? Many types of pots require handles, including mugs, pitchers, teapots, jugs, and so on. One of the most technically and aesthetically pleasing types of handles are pulled handles.
Have you ever heard of pulling a handle for pottery? Many types of pots require handles, including mugs, pitchers, teapots, jugs, and so on. One of the most technically and aesthetically pleasing types of handles are pulled handles.
Artistry and Aesthetic
Artistry and aesthetics are as much a part of pottery as the technical side of pottery craftsmanship. Technical skill, artistry, and aesthetic design are all part of what makes pottery great.
Artistry and aesthetics are as much a part of pottery as the technical side of pottery craftsmanship. Technical skill, artistry, and aesthetic design are all part of what makes pottery great.
Toltec Vessel with Mask 900-1150 AD
A tall pottery vessel in the Toltec style with a mask forming part of the ceramic piece's wall.
A tall pottery vessel in the Toltec style with a mask forming part of the ceramic piece's wall.
Decoration on a Hydria
Close up showing details of the decorations on an ancient Greek pottery hydria.
Close up showing details of the decorations on an ancient Greek pottery hydria.
Throwing Clays
Throwing on the potter's wheel makes some heavy demands on clay bodies. There are three key characteristics necessary for a clay body to work well for throwing.
Throwing on the potter's wheel makes some heavy demands on clay bodies. There are three key characteristics necessary for a clay body to work well for throwing.
Make Particle Board Bats
How to make inexpensive particle board bats for your potter's wheel.
How to make inexpensive particle board bats for your potter's wheel.
Crawling
Crawling is a glaze defect. Find out what it is, why it happens, and how to correct this problem.
Crawling is a glaze defect. Find out what it is, why it happens, and how to correct this problem.
Mayan Woman Figurine from Jaina, ca. 800-1000 AD
Ceramic figure of an ancient Maya woman from the island of Jaina, Mexico.
Ceramic figure of an ancient Maya woman from the island of Jaina, Mexico.
Crazing
What is crazing in glazes? Find the reasons for and solutions to the glaze defect know as crazing here.
What is crazing in glazes? Find the reasons for and solutions to the glaze defect know as crazing here.
How to Use Local Clays
Have you ever wanted to dig your own clay? Local clays can make wonderful slips and (when fired higher than the clays' actual maturity temperature) slip glazes. They can also be very interesting clays with which to create pottery.
Have you ever wanted to dig your own clay? Local clays can make wonderful slips and (when fired higher than the clays' actual maturity temperature) slip glazes. They can also be very interesting clays with which to create pottery.
Clay Artist Peter Holland
Interview with Peter Holland, a full-time clay artist from the U.K. who has been creating clay sculptures for over 20 years.
Interview with Peter Holland, a full-time clay artist from the U.K. who has been creating clay sculptures for over 20 years.
Cut Clay Surface Decoration
Carving large areas of clay can be used both to decorate pottery and to create sculptures.
Carving large areas of clay can be used both to decorate pottery and to create sculptures.
Begin a Pottery Project
Before you begin a pottery project, there are a few preliminary steps you should go through first.
Before you begin a pottery project, there are a few preliminary steps you should go through first.
6 Ways to Heat a Kiln
Kilns can be heated by a number of different heating sources. Kilns used for pottery are heated, or brought to temperature, using five main heating sources.
Kilns can be heated by a number of different heating sources. Kilns used for pottery are heated, or brought to temperature, using five main heating sources.
Mayan Plate with Metate Grinding Cocoa 600-900 AD
A Mayan plate depicting a woman using a metate to grind cocoa.
A Mayan plate depicting a woman using a metate to grind cocoa.
Sgraffito Mountain Box by Beth Peterson
A slab-built pottery box decorated in the sgraffito technique.
A slab-built pottery box decorated in the sgraffito technique.
A Collection of Pre-Columbian Pottery
A collection of pre-Columbian pottery and ceramic objects.
A collection of pre-Columbian pottery and ceramic objects.
Kantharos
Ancient Greek pottery kantharos, or deep drinking cup with two pronounced handles.
Ancient Greek pottery kantharos, or deep drinking cup with two pronounced handles.
Firing Schedule
The definition of a firing schedule or firing cycle as pertains to pottery.
The definition of a firing schedule or firing cycle as pertains to pottery.
Pyriform Aryballos
Ancient Greek pottery aryballos, a small jug used to carry perfumes and oil.
Ancient Greek pottery aryballos, a small jug used to carry perfumes and oil.
Bell-Krater
Ancient Greek pottery bell krater used to mix water into wine.
Ancient Greek pottery bell krater used to mix water into wine.
Dry Pottery and Clay Objects
You can dry the bottom areas of large pots and clay objects while you are still working on them.
You can dry the bottom areas of large pots and clay objects while you are still working on them.
Neck-Amphora
Ancient Greek pottery neck-amphora, one of the many types of amphorae, or storage jars, that has been identified.
Ancient Greek pottery neck-amphora, one of the many types of amphorae, or storage jars, that has been identified.
Read a Clay Body Recipe
Understanding clay recipes can be a confusing experience. Here are some tips for those who want to use clay body recipes and mix their own clays.
Understanding clay recipes can be a confusing experience. Here are some tips for those who want to use clay body recipes and mix their own clays.
Kylix Type B
Ancient Greek pottery kylix, or wdie drinking cup in the Type B style, which has a longer, thinner base stem.
Ancient Greek pottery kylix, or wdie drinking cup in the Type B style, which has a longer, thinner base stem.
Olmec Fish Vessel, ca. 1200-900 BC
Ceramic fish-shaped vessel identified as Olmec. Painted black with traces of cinnabar. 1200 - 900 BC.
Ceramic fish-shaped vessel identified as Olmec. Painted black with traces of cinnabar. 1200 - 900 BC.
How to Cylinder Wedge Clay
Wedging clay is an important preliminary step to working clay. It homogenizes the clay and removes air pockets.
Wedging clay is an important preliminary step to working clay. It homogenizes the clay and removes air pockets.
Throw a Mug
How to throw a mug on the potter's wheel, decorate it, and glaze it.
How to throw a mug on the potter's wheel, decorate it, and glaze it.
Before Glazing
Tips on what you should do before you begin glazing your pottery.
Tips on what you should do before you begin glazing your pottery.
How to Recycle Clay Scraps
The second step to recycling clay scraps is to slake the dried clay in water.
The second step to recycling clay scraps is to slake the dried clay in water.
Conch Shell with Emerging Vulture, 400-550 AD
A pottery conch shell with an emerging vulture, this is probably an example of Mayan ceramics.
A pottery conch shell with an emerging vulture, this is probably an example of Mayan ceramics.
Volute-Krater
Ancient Greek pottery volute krater used to mix water and wine together made between 440 and 450 BC.
Ancient Greek pottery volute krater used to mix water and wine together made between 440 and 450 BC.
Kernos
Ancient Greek pottery kernos, a vessel used to hold multiple offerings at one time.
Ancient Greek pottery kernos, a vessel used to hold multiple offerings at one time.
Mayan Figurine from Jaina, 600-800 AD
A ceramic figure of an important Mayan person from the island of Jaina. Mayan pottery.
A ceramic figure of an important Mayan person from the island of Jaina. Mayan pottery.
Kiln Shelf Basics
Kiln shelves are expensive. Be certain you get the right ones for your needs and care for them appropriately.
Kiln shelves are expensive. Be certain you get the right ones for your needs and care for them appropriately.
Aison Kylix
Ancient Greek pottery kylix signed by the vase painter, Aison.
Ancient Greek pottery kylix signed by the vase painter, Aison.
Zapotec Funerary Urn ca. 300-650 AD
A Zapotec pottery funerary urn from pre-Columbian Oaxaca.
A Zapotec pottery funerary urn from pre-Columbian Oaxaca.
Find a Potter's Wheel
Where do you look to find a pottery wheel to buy? Potters have several choices.
Where do you look to find a pottery wheel to buy? Potters have several choices.
Polychrome Bowl from Cholula, 900-1325 AD
Phase II polychrome pottery bowl from Cholula, Mexico, ca. 900-1325 AD. This ceramic piece shows painted designs in red, white, and dark brown.
Phase II polychrome pottery bowl from Cholula, Mexico, ca. 900-1325 AD. This ceramic piece shows painted designs in red, white, and dark brown.
Corinthian Amphoriskos
Ancient Greek pottery amphoriskos, or small jug, showing animals and a siren. This amphoriskos was made in Corinth.
Ancient Greek pottery amphoriskos, or small jug, showing animals and a siren. This amphoriskos was made in Corinth.
Folk Bird Plate by KayPottery
A pottery plate with folk bird design done in underglazes and sgraffito.
A pottery plate with folk bird design done in underglazes and sgraffito.
Raku
Raku is a type of low-fire pottery which often uses out-of-kiln reduction techniques.
Raku is a type of low-fire pottery which often uses out-of-kiln reduction techniques.
Mayan Cylinder Bowl 600-900 AD
Mayan cylinder bowl with images of humans with bundled offerings, ca. 600-900 AD.
Mayan cylinder bowl with images of humans with bundled offerings, ca. 600-900 AD.
Askos
Ancient Greek pottery askos, a flask form developed from animal-skin wine sacks.
Ancient Greek pottery askos, a flask form developed from animal-skin wine sacks.
Basic Pottery Equipment
The three most-often used pieces of equipment that potters can use are kilns, wheels, and some form of equipment used to bring dry clay to usable form.
The three most-often used pieces of equipment that potters can use are kilns, wheels, and some form of equipment used to bring dry clay to usable form.
Ash Glaze Recipes
A compilation of ash glaze recipes.
A compilation of ash glaze recipes.
Slip-Painted Bowl from Cholula, 900-1325 AD
Phase II slip-painted bowl from Cholula, Mexico, ca. 900-1325 AD. Glyphs encircle this ceramic piece.
Phase II slip-painted bowl from Cholula, Mexico, ca. 900-1325 AD. Glyphs encircle this ceramic piece.
The Cone Method of Wedging
Cone wedging clay compacts the clay into a spiraled cone shape, which many potters prefer when the clay is to be thrown on the potter's wheel.
Cone wedging clay compacts the clay into a spiraled cone shape, which many potters prefer when the clay is to be thrown on the potter's wheel.
How to Throw a Plate
Dry, trim, and decorate your pottery plate as desired.
Dry, trim, and decorate your pottery plate as desired.
Ash Glazes
One of the specific types of glazes that potters tend to talk about are the ash glazes. The vast majority of ash glazes use wood ash, although some potters have developed glaze recipes using ashes from rice straw and hulls, reeds, seaweed, and hay straw, as well as the ashes from other plants. Normally, ash glazes require high-fire temperatures, usually falling between cone 9 and cone 11.
One of the specific types of glazes that potters tend to talk about are the ash glazes. The vast majority of ash glazes use wood ash, although some potters have developed glaze recipes using ashes from rice straw and hulls, reeds, seaweed, and hay straw, as well as the ashes from other plants. Normally, ash glazes require high-fire temperatures, usually falling between cone 9 and cone 11.
Cycladic Jug
Ancient Greek pottery cycladic jug with a high spout and two nipples done in relief.
Ancient Greek pottery cycladic jug with a high spout and two nipples done in relief.
Lekythos
Ancient Greek pottery lekythos, usually used to hold oil or perfume during religious ceremonies. This lekythos is attributed to the Sappho Painter.
Ancient Greek pottery lekythos, usually used to hold oil or perfume during religious ceremonies. This lekythos is attributed to the Sappho Painter.
Bats
Bats are used by potters as throwing and working surfaces. Find out more here.
Bats are used by potters as throwing and working surfaces. Find out more here.
Dog-Shaped Rhyton
Ancient Greek rhyton in the shape of a dog. Rhytons were used for drinking and pouring libations out to the gods.
Ancient Greek rhyton in the shape of a dog. Rhytons were used for drinking and pouring libations out to the gods.
Understand Glaze Recipes
If you are unfamiliar with them , it can be hard to understand and use glaze recipes.
If you are unfamiliar with them , it can be hard to understand and use glaze recipes.
Throw an Inset Lidded Jar
How to throw an inset lidded jar on the potter's wheel. This type of lidded jar has a gallery incorporated into the jar's body.
How to throw an inset lidded jar on the potter's wheel. This type of lidded jar has a gallery incorporated into the jar's body.
Pyxis with Molded Heads
Ancient Greek pottery pyxis, or cosmetic box, with modeled female heads at the rim and friezes of lions, sirens, sphinxes, and birds.
Ancient Greek pottery pyxis, or cosmetic box, with modeled female heads at the rim and friezes of lions, sirens, sphinxes, and birds.
Pre-Columbian Monkey Bowl, Period Unknown
A pre-Columbian pottery monkey bowl.
A pre-Columbian pottery monkey bowl.
Make a Coil-Built Pitcher
How to make a pottery pitcher using the coil building method.
How to make a pottery pitcher using the coil building method.
Commercial Moist Clays
For many part-time potters, the best solution to the clay question is to buy commercially made moist clay. These ready-to-use moist clay bodies come in a vast assortment of temperature ranges, colors, and working characteristics.
For many part-time potters, the best solution to the clay question is to buy commercially made moist clay. These ready-to-use moist clay bodies come in a vast assortment of temperature ranges, colors, and working characteristics.
Where to Look for Classes
Classes in pottery or ceramics can help you expand your technical and expressive voice in clay. They can also be great fun. You may have decided that you would like to take a class in pottery, but aren't sure how to find one. Here are some places to look.
Classes in pottery or ceramics can help you expand your technical and expressive voice in clay. They can also be great fun. You may have decided that you would like to take a class in pottery, but aren't sure how to find one. Here are some places to look.
Leather-hard
Definition of the term leather-hard when used in pottery and ceramics.
Definition of the term leather-hard when used in pottery and ceramics.
Thrown Pottery Lids
Explore the types of pottery lids that are thrown on the wheel.
Explore the types of pottery lids that are thrown on the wheel.
Kiln Wash
Kiln wash is used to protect kiln shelves from damage during firings.
Kiln wash is used to protect kiln shelves from damage during firings.