Introduction and subject terms

Made from earth, water and fire. Clay is different from mud, since it has plasticity. This gives it the ability to hold together while its being shaped. CLAY

Ceramics – Clay objects that permanently retain their shape after they have been heated to specific temperatures. Pottery – Functional Ware, such as vases, pots, bowls or plates, shaped from moist clay and hardened by heat. BASIC TERMS

Wedge – A way of improving the workability of clay by reforming the mixture to make it homogeneous and even in texture while eliminating air bubbles. BASIC TERMS

Kiln – A structure built to fire clay at high temperatures. BASIC TERMS

Fire – Heating pottery or clay sculpture to a temperature high enough to render it hard and durable. BASIC TERMS

Pinch method: Hand building Technique that involves squeezing the clay, usually between thumb and fingers. CONSTRUCTION

Coil method: Hand building technique where rolls of clay are attached together to form pottery. CONSTRUCTION

Construction: Slab method: Hand building Technique that involves shaping ceramics from broad, flat, thick pieces.

Bisqueware – Ceramic ware that has gone through the first firing at a relatively low temperature and still maintains its porous state. CLAY STAGES

Glazeware – Ceramic ware that has been fired at a high temperature with glaze, which forms a coating of glass onto the surface. CLAY STAGES

Fettling knife – A long tapered knife used for cutting and trimming clay. Loop tool – A small loop with a handle used to carve clay away. TOOLS

Score – Scratching the edges of clay before joining them together. JOINING TECHNIQUES

Slip – A fluid suspension of clay in water used in joining clay pieces and for surface decoration. JOINING TECHNIQUES

Bond – when two pieces of clay are pressed together to hold their connection JOINING TECHNIQUES

Now it’s your turn to work on your pottery! END