This is quite the guide. It gives a detailed look at the art of ceramics. It is designed for the novice as well as the expert, giving step by step directions on the techniques used in creating ceramics.
The book is divided into eight parts. The first deals with the materials, tools and processes of the art, discussing such basic things as what is clay, where do you get it, and how do you prepare it, etc. The tool section discusses general tools, throwing and turning tools, hand-building/modeling tools as well as decorating, “mould-making” and miscellaneous tools. There are discussions of health and safety equipment. There is a section on choosing wheels, and on general studio equipment. There is also a section on how to set up a workshop.
The second part talks about various forming techniques, while parts three and four discuss the prefiring decorations and then the firing of ceramics including discussions on which kiln, what fuel, what temperature, how to pack a kiln, etc. The next two parts talk about glazing and post glazing decorations, while part seven addresses how to design items to create. The last part deals with the professional practice of ceramics including how to photograph, promote, and sell your works.
Each part has step-by-step instructions accompanied by detailed photographs to walk the reader through the processes discussed. The photographs are so real that one can almost feel the clay. When the text describes a process it is very useful to be able to see how it is supposed to look. This makes the book very “hands-on” for the novice as well as the seasoned practitioner.
This is a very helpful book for those doing ceramics. The illustrations are wonderful. The instructions are clear and to the point.
