Ceramics Final

Slab

An even sheet of clay made by gently throwing and/or rolling.

Scoring

Scratching into the surfaces of the clay to create a bond between two pieces.

Clay

A fine-grained soil or water-soaked earth that can be molded when wet but hard when fired.

Hand Building

Technique of building with clay using only the hands and simple tools rather than the potter’s wheel.

Shrinkage

The reduction in size of a ceramic piece after it has been fired, typically between 12% to 20%.

Slip

A half water, half clay mixture used to attach clay to clay.

Pinch

A method of making pottery in which a ball of clay is pressed, pulled, and pinched into shape with the hands.

Coil Construction

Creating the walls of ceramic forms by melding together ropes (coils) of clay.

Glaze

A coating of glass on the surface of fired work that fuses to create strength and a non-porous finish.

Kiln

A high-temperature 'oven' that fires clay, with common types including electric, wood-burning, and gas.

What shape should the clay make when wedging?

Spiral.

What are the 3 hand building techniques?

Pinch, Coil, and Slab.

List the 6 stages of drying clay in order.

Slip, Plastic, Leather-hard, Bone dry, Bisqueware, Glazeware.

What is the workflow order of clay processing?

Form, monitor drying, bisque fire, self eval, teacher eval, glaze, glaze fire.

Difference between Buff and Terra Cotta clay?

Buff clay is typically lighter in color and smoother, while Terra Cotta is reddish and more porous.

Describe how to create a pinch pot.

Take a ball of clay, press your thumb into the center, and gently pinch the walls to shape it.

How many coats of glaze should you apply?

Generally, 2-3 coats are recommended for even coverage.

What should you do to the bottom of a glazed pottery piece?

Ensure the bottom is clean and not glazed to prevent sticking to the kiln.

What is Glaze made of?

Glaze is glass that has been modified to melt onto clay.