Ceramics Vocab D/E

Decoration/Tools

Rib

A wooden or metal tool for smoothing or assisting in the throwing of a pot on a wheel. This name was given to the tool because older potters used a bone for this purpose.

Boss

An age-old decorative feature; a spherical hump traditionally formed by pressing the inside of a pot but today more frequently applied to the outside.

Trimming

The only essential feature of a turning tool is a short firm cutting edge which can be held at a right-angle to the rotating pot.

Sponge stick

A natural or polyester sponge fastened to the end of a dowel or stick, and used for absorbing surplus water from pots during throwing.

Dry Foot

The bottom of a pot that has been cleaned of all glaze before firing.

Stamping

An embossed or intaglio impression can be used to build up a pattern on clay.

Matte

The non-glossy surface quality of a completely fired glaze.

Spatula

A tool with a flattened, curved and rounded end. This tool is used for designing and trimming excess fat off a spinning form on the potters wheel.

Sprig

A base-relief on a medallion made in a small press mold and stuck with slip onto a pottery surface.

Needle

“Pricker” is the American term. A fine awl for cutting clay.

Foot

It is the part of the ceramic pottery piece on which the main shape stands.