From Clay to Kiln

From Clay to Kiln is a must-have guide for anyone working with ceramics, from absolute beginners, weekend crafters and students, through to practising ceramicists. In this book, Stuart Carey invigorates and encourages you through all stages of the pottery process. Covering all the information you need about tools and materials, he takes you through preparation and hand building, throwing and finishing your vessel, to glazing and firing.

You will gain an in-depth knowledge of how clay works and how to apply your skills to the wheel and beyond. With simple step-by-step tutorials, clear visuals and Stuart’s helpful hints and tips, you can jump straight in with confidence and create a piece of pottery that marries beauty, form and function. Including stunningly beautiful photography throughout, this is a book to inspire.

Book Contents

Meet Stuart 6

Chapter 1: Preparing and Hand Building 8
Meet the Materials 10
Wedging 12
Weighing and Balling 18
Hand Building 20

Chapter 2: Throwing 36
Body Position 38
Glossary of Hand Positions 40
Tools 46
Using a Bat 50
Planning a Project 52
Centering 54
Cylinder 58
Bowl 72
Plate 84

Chapter 3: Finishing your Vessel 90
Turning 92
Finishes 104
Handles 106

Chapter 4: Decoration: Glazing and Firing 120
Surface Finishes 122
Colour 128
Glaze and Glaze Making 130
Mixing and Sieving 136
Application 140
Firing 144
Faults and Flaws 148

Glossary 154
Index 157
Credits 160