Ceramics A Potter's Handbook Summary

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Ceramics A Potter’s Handbook by Glenn Nelson and Richard Burkett uses chapter 7 to detail different techniques used on the potter’s wheel. Prior to the invention of the potter’s wheel, pots would be trimmed or refined using a simple turning device. The first pots that were completely wheel thrown emerge around 3000 B.C., quickly becoming an essential tool in the world of ceramics.
The first step in the process is choosing a wheel. Those who may throw for many hours a day would most likely use an electric wheel, while a beginner may find kick wheels to be more comfortable. The wheel should be free of vibration, and close to the seat for the person throwing, as well as raised to an optimal height to maintain the position used for throwing for larger amounts of time.
The essential tools to have when throwing are a sponge, water, leather …show more content…

This is done when leather-hard. If too dry it may crack and if too wet, it may sag. Centering the pot upside down on the wheel and surrounding with clay allows it to keep its position for trimming. Trimming too slowly may lead to uneven work.
After trimming, appendages may be added, lids may be formed, and adjustments may be made for spouts and pouring. A carrot like shape is attached and pulled to make a handle on a pot using even pressure and wet hands. Spouts may be made when the pot is still soft, to allow proportionate drying. They must be made higher than the top of the pot, must be made using the fingers, and may not be simply an extension of the rim. The lid to a pot should be made with the actual pot in mind, in size and style. The easiest style would be flat with a simple ball knob for a handle.
Teapots are often more challenging for potters as they typically consist of four different parts, the body, the spout, the handle, and the lid. Forms may also be altered once thrown, depending on the shape and what type of alterations are

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