I have always been fascinated by the results of using copper in glazes fired in a gas kiln under a reducing atmosphere. Here I explore brilliant copper reds, nanoparticles, tin oxide and the influence of firing conditions on the final colour.
Boron is a versatile constituent of low- and mid-temperature glazes. Its compounds can contribute to glass formation and melting, depending on composition. These advantages do not, by themselves, guarantee durability or safety for food contact. […]
Discover the advantages and limitations of plaster moulds for complex, detailed ceramic objects. Find out whether this method suits your studio!
Hello everyone! Today I would like to write about a material often overlooked in the ceramics studio, yet extremely versatile and accessible: engobe. This liquid clay contrasts with the colour of the clay body beneath it, creating decoration. […]
A few months ago, I wrote about ash glazes. Recently, I have had some good results in this area and wanted to share the latest developments with you.
Hello everyone! This post explores a process widely used in industrial ceramics but, I believe, less common in studio pottery: making pieces with plaster moulds. Although the method removes the individually hand-formed character of each piece, it can help produce complex forms with less labour. […]
Hello everyone! This post is a little more technical, but I hope it helps potters having trouble applying glazes. A glaze may seem too thick or too thin, prompting us to add or remove water. But there are other factors to consider. […]
Hello! This post explores a new area I am investigating: making patterns in CAD—computer-aided design—software for ceramic work. Wheel throwing calls for intuition, while slab-built pieces require planning and the development of their constituent shapes. […]
Hello! I am sharing the results of my first firing. It took place in a gas-fired kiln, with an indicated target of 1,220°C and cone 6 on the middle shelf. Temperature readings and cone bending provide complementary information about the firing. […]
Hello! You have probably seen Portuguese tiles with blue decoration on white faience, or Chinese vases with blue brushwork. That blue comes from a cobalt-based pigment. This article explores its history and its use in ceramics. […]