Potter

Potter

A potter is a craftsman who shapes and creates objects from clay and other ceramic materials. Pottery is one of the oldest human crafts, with evidence of ceramic artifacts dating back to ancient civilizations. Potters use various techniques to create functional and decorative items, including wheel throwing, handbuilding, and slip casting.

History

The history of pottery dates back to prehistoric times. Early examples of pottery have been found in regions such as Mesopotamia, Ancient Egypt, and China. These early potters used simple tools and techniques to create vessels for storing food and water. Over time, pottery techniques evolved, and potters began to create more intricate and decorative pieces.

Techniques

Wheel Throwing

Wheel throwing is a technique where the potter shapes the clay on a rotating wheel. This method allows for the creation of symmetrical and uniform pieces. The potter uses their hands and various tools to shape the clay as it spins on the wheel.

Handbuilding

Handbuilding is a technique that involves shaping the clay by hand without the use of a potter's wheel. This method includes techniques such as coil building, slab building, and pinching. Handbuilding allows for more creative and unique shapes.

Slip Casting

Slip casting is a technique where liquid clay, known as slip, is poured into a plaster mold. The plaster absorbs the water from the slip, leaving a layer of clay that takes the shape of the mold. Once the clay has hardened, the mold is removed, and the piece is fired in a kiln.

Firing

Firing is the process of heating the clay to a high temperature to harden it and make it durable. There are two main types of firing: bisque firing and glaze firing. Bisque firing is the first firing that hardens the clay, while glaze firing is the second firing that melts the glaze and creates a glass-like surface.

Glazing

Glazing is the process of applying a liquid coating to the surface of the pottery before the final firing. The glaze can add color, texture, and a protective layer to the pottery. There are various types of glazes, including underglaze, overglaze, and engobe.

Related Pages

• Ceramics
• Kiln
• Clay
• Glaze
• Pottery wheel
• Ceramic art
• Earthenware
• Stoneware
• Porcelain