Expert: Leisha Hiester - 9/9/2010

Question
I am just getting started in ceramics. Was given a pouring table with old slip in it which had dried out. The lady said I could reconstitute it with water and practice pouring with it. Would it be OK to do this and fire the pieces as they come out or do I need to add other chemicals to it. Also, can I treat the trimmings from cleaning the same way?

Answer
Dear Judy,

Congratulations on starting out in ceramics!

It can be reconstituted, however it is a prolonged mixing process to get it back to it's orginal smoothness.There are slip testing procedures you can do to ensure uniformity, viscosity and weight. Do you know where she obtained her slip? If it is from a local distributor they should be able to supply you with these procedures and some helpful hints regarding sodium silicate.

Hope this helps, Leisha