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Pottery/Questions Answered by Expert Ric Swenson
| Subject | Date Asked |
| shivering | 10/19/2011 |
| Q: I am experiencing shivering on pieces and am desperate to fix this. The bisque comes from different ... A: shivering...ah I hate it. It is an imbalance of silica between clay body and the glaze. No cure I ... | |
| Mold making and RAM process | 10/4/2011 |
| Q: I am making multiple water features in ceramic,using a model in clay that will be sacrificed in the ... A: Yes, it terminates in the plaster, during the hardening...use temp. to gauge when to start purging, ... | |
| cooperative designs Bennington vermont | 9/15/2011 |
| Q: I would be most grateful for any information you might provide regarding the attached Bennington ... A: Looks like it is a simple rubber stamp? Haven't seen that before...so it must be 1940s-1950s. ... | |
| cooperative designs Bennington vermont | 9/15/2011 |
| Q: I would be most grateful for any information you might provide regarding the attached Bennington ... A: This is before my time there. ( I was there from 1982-1995) The Bennington 'Cooperative' mark on ... | |
| Bennington Bowl 1877 | 9/9/2011 |
| Q: I recently bought a blue bennington bowl. On the bottom, around the edge of the bowl is "bennington ... A: 1877 is the model number. Not very old. Designed and first made in the late 1970s...part of a ... | |
| celedon pot | 9/8/2011 |
| Q: I recently found what appears to be a very old hexagonal tea caddy with green glaze that might be ... A: It looks to be a common stoneware jar. The glaze could be an early celadon, but celadons are ... | |
| crazing | 7/25/2011 |
| Q: I use a charcoal earthenware clay body(South African), decorated with Amaco underglazes. I high fire ... A: The issue might be the fact that your plates are glazed on only one surface...the top? Glaze the ... | |
| Best Clay for Impact | 7/22/2011 |
| Q: I've been working with the same clay for about 3 years and I have no idea of which types of clay ... A: Try Kickwheel Ceramics or Devons in Atlanta. You probably want a tight bonding clay, but that also ... | |
| painting a class project | 7/22/2011 |
| Q: I am doing a class project with my class for a silent auction. I would like to do a cookie jar with ... A: paint will not be permanent...but if you want safe...use acrylic paints...it will last for years if ... | |
| Kiln not reaching cone 5 | 7/15/2011 |
| Q: I recently moved to a new studio and suddenly my Olympic kiln will not reach cone 5. It climbs ... A: It could be loose screw connections on the ends of the elements. Unplug the kiln and check inside ... | |
| Working with porcelain, increasing strength | 7/10/2011 |
| Q: I'm working with a ceramicist in a product design venture using porcelain. I'd like to gain a better ... A: The hardness and durability of porcelain is determined by the ratio of kaolin clay and feldspar ... | |
| recycled clay elasticity | 7/8/2011 |
| Q: I've been using and reusing cone ten stoneware clay (It's called 900). It seems to be loosing some ... A: If the clay has ben dried out and then re-wet and left wrapped up in wet towels/cloth for a few ... | |
| Switching from Cone 10-Cone 6 | 7/1/2011 |
| Q: I am interested in switching from a Cone 10 clay (stoneware) body to a Cone 6 (stoneware). What I ... A: I once switched to cone 6 from 10. The glazes are different and it will take some experimentation ... | |
| David Gil's work? | 6/14/2011 |
| Q: I recently picked up a bowl at a yard sale and was wondering if it is an old one by David Gil. At ... A: I have never seen anything of David's that looked remotely like this. Anything is possible...maybe ... | |
| Bisque vs. Glaze Firing time | 6/13/2011 |
| Q: Swenson, I recently purchased a used Cress Electric kiln (manual with sitter). I have it set up ... A: Firing times vary...the bisque must be very slow to start. I usually warm the kiln to about 200 F. ... | |
| Just bought a kiln | 6/5/2011 |
| Q: I just purchased a Cress fx-23 kiln and was wondering it i could get some assistance on operation. I ... A: I know Skutt and Olympic kilns....I do not know the cress. I suggest you go to their website for ... | |
| firing to cone 6 | 5/16/2011 |
| Q: I have novice plus knowledge of firing. I'm getting ready to fire my old hand built gas kiln to ... A: kiln vary a geat deal...but a general rule might be to start at 100-150 C. rise per hour at ... | |
| firing to cone 6 | 5/15/2011 |
| Q: I have novice plus knowledge of firing. I'm getting ready to fire my old hand built gas kiln to ... A: go at it slowly.... Take notes of gas settings and damper adjustments. put cone packs at several ... | |
| Age of Bowl/Censor (?) Chinese? | 5/2/2011 |
| Q: Many years ago I was told that this was quite old. If I remember correctly possibly over 200 years ... A: I couldn't find any help here...except that my friends suggested that the glaze is crawled and the ... | |
| Age of Bowl/Censor (?) Chinese? | 5/2/2011 |
| Q: Many years ago I was told that this was quite old. If I remember correctly possibly over 200 years ... A: Blue and white decoration started in and near JingDeZhen China about 1000 years ago. In the 15-16th ... | |
| Where to place my kiln | 4/26/2011 |
| Q: I live in a town home and am in the process of buying a shed (vinyl siding) and would like to place ... A: Sounds reasonable...keep all combustibles at least 2-3 feet from the kiln. Make the lean -to roof ... | |
| underglaze decorating technique | 4/25/2011 |
| Q: How do you make a very fine and clean black line on white clay or underglaze without it smearing? ... A: Yes, glycerin makes the glaze or glaze stain (like Mason's stains) flow....and not dry so fast that ... | |
| Coop Design to Bennington Potters Timeline | 4/18/2011 |
| Q: I picked up this great looking bird bowl, signed "Coop Design Bennington, Vt" at an estate sale ... A: Interesting piece. I have never seen this one. David started the COOP in 1947 after he finisshed ... | |
| vase | 4/13/2011 |
| Q: Do you have any of the maker of this vase ? It has an H on the base and K6, any information woul be ... A: If it is Chinese....and not Japanese...or Korean, it looks to be contemporary piece...not an older ... | |
| Chinese pottery | 4/11/2011 |
| Q: Would it be possible to identify the type of Chinese Porcelain provided in the attached photo. It ... A: A nice vase. Hard to place but maybe made in JingDeZhen...the pattern is typical. ... | |
| Orton pyrometric cones | 4/11/2011 |
| Q: I have a strange question. I used a 4-5-6-7 Orton cone setup on a kiln firing recently (large ... A: Indeed strange...I would have said the air flow did it...but you say not....hmmm... maybe not ... | |
| clear glaze fires with matt areas | 4/7/2011 |
| Q: In our studio we started using Duncan Pure Brilliance clear glaze on our low fire clay. On several ... A: It could be the glaze was not mixed very well.... ........could be the matt areas caused by being ... | |
| low fire glazes in high fire communal studio? | 4/4/2011 |
| Q: I am a part of a community pottery studio that has operated for 30 years using exclusively cone 10 ... A: The danger of mixing high and low fire clays can jeopardize the shelves and the kiln's life. The ... | |
| Kiln Firing Too Quickly For Bisque | 3/9/2011 |
| Q: A few months ago, I "repaired" a bad element in my Evenheat kiln. It's a small kiln with four ... A: Try this: load the kiln, put the one element on low for about a half hour...shut it off...close the ... | |
| blue and white covered dish.. baked enamel? | 2/27/2011 |
| Q: I bought this beautiful covered bowl or pot at an estate sale yesterday for $2. I love it. Can you ... A: Looks like a good bargain! You say it is baked enamel? Metal vessel with enameled surface? Usually ... | |
| Bennington Pottery | 2/27/2011 |
| Q: I purchased a Bennington Pottery oblong cooker #1896. It is 16" long by 5 3/4" wide and 3" tall. ... A: Made by RAM press (hydralic). You do not say, but I assume it is terracotta clay...reddish/brown ... | |
| reverse firing... | 2/19/2011 |
| Q: Im using a ^6 clay...but want to use a ^06 glaze. The ^6 clay must be fired to ^6 to get it's best ... A: Yes you can do this. The issue will be to get the glaze to stick to already vitrified clay. Water ... | |
| Firing process | 1/8/2011 |
| Q: I fire up to 04 (no higher temperature available) and I would like to know what the correct process ... A: Bisque fire at 04 or even lower (06 or 08) Then glaze and fire to the proper temp for that ... | |
| Bennington Pottery 1915 rimmed bowl | 1/1/2011 |
| Q: I just want to start by thanking you for personally answering previous questions concerning ... A: Not likley made until 1980S. The darker mustard base may have been a transition color...we ... | |
| Bennington Pottery 1915 rimmed bowl | 1/1/2011 |
| Q: I just want to start by thanking you for personally answering previous questions concerning ... A: You are right...the 1915 s 1915 m and 1915 L show the sizes. Sometimes as designs were improved ... | |
| Is this mass produced? | 12/27/2010 |
| Q: My mother-in-law has asked me to make inquiries about a set of pottery she was given by a neighbor ... A: Probably a Staffordshire, British made set. No idea of the "N". An antique shop might have a book ... | |
| kiln operation/ failure | 12/16/2010 |
| Q: I have an electric kiln that I've operated successfully for Cone 5 stoneware, and lent to another ... A: Probably some weak elements are causing the stall. Best to shut it down and start over after ... | |
| bisque firing | 12/14/2010 |
| Q: Doing a bisque fore last night my kiln tripped the breaker at 1298F. materials have the bisque ... A: It should be ok...but the body will absorb glaze more and be a little more fragile. Just be careful ... | |
| stoneware repair | 11/29/2010 |
| Q: Swenson, I chipped a stoneware butter dish made in the Czech Republic, not antique, but my wife is ... A: I hope I can help... Use an epoxy....since it is a butter dish....and not likely to be in the ... | |
| clay dug from back yard too much sand in it | 11/8/2010 |
| Q: I dug up clay from the yard mixed it with water and strained through screen material. I fired it to ... A: You can screen the clay through a seive. Hard to tell which would be best mesh...60...or 100...or ... | |
| Cooperative Pottery Design | 10/23/2010 |
| Q: I recently picked up a piece of pottery stamped on the back "Cooperative Pottery Design Bennington ... A: 1950-60s design by David Gil and his small company, Bennington, Vermont. Made by RAM press method, ... | |
| Bennington Potter Caserole Dish 9"x6" Stamp 1855 | 10/21/2010 |
| Q: Do you know of the year this item was made or the estimate value on this piece. It is brown with ... A: There were, I believe two sizes made ..the 1855 and 1856. David Gil designed that whole line ( ... | |
| Cooperative Design in Bennington, Vermont | 10/10/2010 |
| Q: Perhaps youn can help me identify a piece I just recently bought. It is an oval wall plaque ... A: David Gill, born of Russian immigrant parents in Harlem, NY, started Bennington Coop with a ... | |
| glaze and bisque fire combined | 10/4/2010 |
| Q: I read about this from the other expert but I had another question. It stated to load glazed pieces ... A: Best to experiment. If your vent draws gases down...it may indeed influence glazes a bit. I doubt ... | |
| butter keeper leak in pottery | 9/25/2010 |
| Q: I have a butter keeper that has a leak in the bottom in the center, looks like the glaze did not ... A: You might try an epoxy (two part marine epoxy is best) apply it to the outside surface and see if ... | |
| DAVID GIL BENNINGTON POTTERY | 8/28/2010 |
| Q: I HAVE A STUDIO TYPE POTTERY MUG WITH A DARK BROWN MOOSE WALKING AMONG GRASS. IT HAS THE NAME ... A: Doubt it. All David's works said bennington cooperative, or bennington potters. His middle initial ... | |
| indian pottery jug | 8/23/2010 |
| Q: I recently bought at an auction in the St Louis area a small jug that was called an authentic Indian ... A: sorry I can't too much help, but most Native American pottery I have seen from antiquity uses ... | |
| hanging clay pot | 8/12/2010 |
| Q: We got a clay pot that hangs with a thick rod like hanger that goes through 2 holes -1 on each ... A: WE MADE TENS OF THOUSANDS OF THOSE PLANTERS...doubt is worth too much,,,but it works well eh? the ... | |
| pottery | 8/11/2010 |
| Q: just bought some pottery from Costco - I didn't realize it was made in china and want to be sure it ... A: I can't guarantee anything...but if it is exported they check for heavy metals etc....in Canada and ... | |
| burnishing | 7/11/2010 |
| Q: What a great service! I am hand building bowls that I would like to use. I am presently burnishing ... A: As I understand it...when you burnish the surface of clay you are making the clay at the surface ... | |
| burnishing | 7/10/2010 |
| Q: What a great service! I am hand building bowls that I would like to use. I am presently burnishing ... A: wow...a lot of questions.. High fire will only enhance burnishing....IMHO... do not use oil to ... | |
| mid fire glaze problem | 7/5/2010 |
| Q: I am currently working with MFQ clay. After many months of successful firing I am now experiencing ... A: Is it a new batch of glaze? Same batch? Maybe something left out? or added twice? Try a new batch ... | |
| Potters Wheel | 7/2/2010 |
| Q: Can I convert a treddle wheel to electric A: yes, just figure a way to drive the shaft of the wheel using a dc motor...and a rheostat. Do you ... | |
| oxide glazes | 6/29/2010 |
| Q: I have been experimenting with oxides on raw pottery, fired between cone 06 and cone 07. I am ... A: try triaxial blends...three at a time....Fe02 or iron oxide...Fe203...ferrous oxide...1/2 % is ... | |
| 04 glaze on Cone 6 bisque | 6/23/2010 |
| Q: Found a very attractive Cone 04 glaze, have cone 6 clay. If I fire the greenware I want this glaze ... A: It should work fine...however...getting the glaze to stick to a vitrified body will be a challenge. ... | |
| glazing | 6/22/2010 |
| Q: Why do some glazes have bubbles or holes after they are fired? A: Bubbles maybe from not enough time/temperature...re fire and see if they smooth out at a sightly ... | |
| slumped porcelain | 6/20/2010 |
| Q: I made some porcelain forms and tried to make them as thin as possible( about 3mm thickness) in ... A: Maybe try bisque at lower than 1200 C and then use low (cone 06 or lower) glazes....it will be a ... | |
| slumped porcelain | 6/19/2010 |
| Q: I made some porcelain forms and tried to make them as thin as possible( about 3mm thickness) in ... A: Maybe lower the final firing temp. a bit...Even if you fire them upside-down the might slump in the ... | |
| re-glazing & re-firing an older item? | 6/6/2010 |
| Q: Greetings! I have found a lovely glazed ceramic mirror frame that is is the most GHASTLY color (a ... A: It will be difficult to get the second layer of glaze to stick to the already fired glaze. Use ... | |
| David Gil/Yusuke Aida Partnership | 5/26/2010 |
| Q: Rick! I was wondering what the line of plates with the lugged bowls and single strap handled mugs ... A: Y. Aida did most, if not all, of the numbered 1600 series works. . I was told. I hadn't seen that ... | |
| Kilns | 5/24/2010 |
| Q: What is the best electric kiln for elementary/middle level classroom use. It should be large in ... A: My preference is for the SKUTT Kiln (Portland, OR.) I used one in my own studio for many years and ... | |
| bats | 5/20/2010 |
| Q: I'm just starting out in my own studio, and need to handle quite a bit of production right away, but ... A: I have used masonite bats, plaster bats and formica covered fiber board bats. I like the formica ... | |
| FAVOR | 5/19/2010 |
| Q: BUT I DONT RECOGNIZE THE MARK OR WHERE IS FROM, CAN YOU HELP ME WITH THIS OR ANY INFORMATION ABOUT ... A: Sorry I do not recognize the design. I think it is not from JingDeZhen..maybe Fujian? These were ... | |
| white bennington stoneware | 5/12/2010 |
| Q: for years I looked forward to skiing in Vermont so I could stop at Bennington pottery and add pieces ... A: If you saved the chips you can use 2 part epoxy to re-attach the pieces...then diplay them. They ... | |
| reproducing plaster decorative tiles from ceiling trim | 5/8/2010 |
| Q: we are in need of someone that can reproduce decorative tile that were used to highlight the ... A: Any local potter in your area can probaly do that work. To find a local potter, go to the College ... | |
| warping | 5/6/2010 |
| Q: After 3 years away from my studio I have resumed my pottery work. Without changing my previous ... A: no easy answer without being there. Maybe your clay body has changed? Are the shelves perfectly ... | |
| over-fired biscuit to be glazed | 5/4/2010 |
| Q: I have an electric kiln with a controller that I had not used before. It is new to me but a 1994 or ... A: If your bisque is vitrified (overfired...glasslike) it is difficult to get the glaze to stick. ... | |
| Clay body firing black | 4/30/2010 |
| Q: Is there a commonly available clay body that fires a true black, or deep, deep, grey? I belong to a ... A: Most supply houses have a black clay stoneware clay. Kickwheel pottery supply in Atanta has a good ... | |
| clay body | 4/17/2010 |
| Q: Do you know what the word crank--as in crank clay body means? I have several books from the UK and ... A: I only know that I have heard that CRANK means (in UK) refractory support for firing...like a kiln ... | |
| Kiln Troubles | 4/16/2010 |
| Q: I had written you previously about the explosions in my old Cress Kiln (Model EB-23). I have already ... A: If the piece is close to the element...it will get too hot too fast in that area. Try a shorter ... | |
| Kiln Explosions... | 4/8/2010 |
| Q: I recently purchased an old Cress kiln (Model EB 23) and have been using it for a few months now. ... A: It could change the surface to add grop...particularly where the piece is trimmed. Burnishing that ... | |
| flaking glazes | 4/8/2010 |
| Q: I read your answer to another flaking problem but I was wondering if hard water could affect my ... A: Make sure the glazes are very well mixed...sometimes glazes pack down and particularly the ball clay ... | |
| Kiln Explosions... | 4/7/2010 |
| Q: I recently purchased an old Cress kiln (Model EB 23) and have been using it for a few months now. ... A: Formulations for stoneware vary a lot. Doing both things will give you a near 100 % chance of ... | |
| Kiln Explosions... | 4/7/2010 |
| Q: I recently purchased an old Cress kiln (Model EB 23) and have been using it for a few months now. ... A: Thick sections of clay take a long time to dry. When making clay sculptures with my students, we ... | |
| flaking glazes | 4/7/2010 |
| Q: I read your answer to another flaking problem but I was wondering if hard water could affect my ... A: You can probaly save them. If flaking is happening you can add some CMC gum to the glaze....a cup ... | |
| flaking glazes | 4/7/2010 |
| Q: I read your answer to another flaking problem but I was wondering if hard water could affect my ... A: Hard water can indeed have some bad effects on clay slip and glazes. Experimenting will reveal ... | |
| old jen ken kiln | 3/30/2010 |
| Q: I have a stupid question. I haven't played with a kiln since high school. That was more years ago ... A: Likely the white powder is kiln cement...old and exposed to moisture. It could contain asbestos if ... | |
| baking stoneware | 3/29/2010 |
| Q: I have a flat, round baking stone that has cracked into 3 pieces. Is there any glue that will work, ... A: It's history. Go to a ceramic supply store and buy a kiln shelf...the size and shape you want. They ... | |
| outdoor clay fireplace | 3/22/2010 |
| Q: We have a large ourside adobo style clay fireplace. It developed cracks and has come apart in large ... A: Refractory mortar mix. It is used to mortar fireplace bricks and furnaces and ceramic kilns. I ... | |
| outdoor fountain | 3/21/2010 |
| Q: The glaze (and paint) of my outdoor fountain is badly chipped due to my using Clorox last year to ... A: I would try Thompson's water seal to seal the surface...and make it fairly water-proof... if you do ... | |
| leaking pitcher | 3/18/2010 |
| Q: I have a pitcher that leaks through the pores. It is painted and glazed, within and without. ... A: It is probably low fired terracotta ware. I do not know of a way to make it stop leaking...other ... | |
| flower pots from China for baking | 3/12/2010 |
| Q: Is it safe to use flower clay pots from China for baking? I have purchased some from Walmart and ... A: I cannot tell you for sure. Flower pots are made from terracotta...ie Earthenware clays that come ... | |
| lead glazes | 2/26/2010 |
| Q: I have just changed from using stoneware to earthenware: Q. Is Lead Bisilicate (which seems to ... A: Any form of lead or other heavy metal (cadmium, selenium, etc....) is NOT appropriate for wares to ... | |
| Bennington Pottery wall plaques | 2/22/2010 |
| Q: I'm sorry that I don't have a camera to send you pictures, but will describe them to the best of my ... A: I have not seen the ones you describe...but probably made by David Gil ( aka David Goldfarb) in ... | |
| Gold clay | 2/17/2010 |
| Q: Is it possible to put gold or silver clay on a bisqued piece, so I could fired the piece and the ... A: Yes I believe it is possible...but I think you would want to high fire the unglazed piece ... | |
| What Cone temp to use | 2/17/2010 |
| Q: I have been given some bisqued stoneware. Can I use my clay glazes on it and what cone temperature ... A: Stoneware can fire to a low temp. or a higher temp. Earthenware is generally low temp (cone 05 or ... | |
| firing glazed pottery | 2/17/2010 |
| Q: I've dipped my pottery piece in glaze and am ready to fire it. I've heard of putting small clay ... A: Have you cleaned the glaze from the bottom? It is called dry footing..If you clean off the glaze ... | |
| Bennington Potters Stamps / Styles | 1/15/2010 |
| Q: I've newly become interested in Bennington Potters, especially David Gil and Yusuke Aida's actual ... A: John, I do not know if they have a comprehensive catalog of the entire history from 1947 to now. ... | |
| firing/mason stains | 1/15/2010 |
| Q: Haven't done this in a long time and don't remember If I use the mason stain without a clear glaze ... A: Mason's stains can be used under a clear glaze...or mixed with the clear glaze and applied directly. ... | |
| Repainting glazed clay plates | 1/11/2010 |
| Q: I have some hanging clay plates and I would like to change the design on them. Can I paint the ... A: You can paint with an epoxy type or marine enamel...acrylics wo'nt stick well...no water based paint ... | |
| painting on clay sculpture | 1/9/2010 |
| Q: I have a 50+ year old beautiful art piece from India (Assam) which is showing signs of neglect ... A: Visit a museum that has an expert in restoration. They can help you decide what to do to restore ... | |
| Bennington pottery fish | 1/8/2010 |
| Q: I have a white fish dish that was given to me as "a Bennington fish." It's 9 1/2 inches from mouth ... A: I am not familiar with such Bennington works. I worked in Bennington in 1982-1995 time frame for a ... | |
| clay repair | 1/5/2010 |
| Q: I have 2 clay water pitchers that the handles are broken off of. They appear to be red clay they ... A: maybe grind the small chips of terracotta to a powder...with a mortar and pestle....( or get a ... | |
| using supports in fired clay | 1/5/2010 |
| Q: I'm new to working with clay. If I use newspaper as an internal support, won't it just burn up when ... A: Yes, of course the paper will burn away and make A LOT of smoke...vent the kiln...open the door. do ... | |
| Don't know what I have | 1/5/2010 |
| Q: A close friend of the family recently passed away. Before he did, he told us to hold on to this ... A: It looks nice. Is it signed on the foot? Worth? I have no idea. If made by Peter ... | |
| Glaze Firing | 1/4/2010 |
| Q: Is it possible to use a low fire glaze with a high fire clay (or more specifically slip casted ... A: Yes...of course you can underfire stoneware or porcelain... it will work... BUT it will absorb ... | |
| pin holes | 1/4/2010 |
| Q: I tried my hand at majolica using 2 coats of a low fire satin glaze and two coats of either Duncan ... A: yes...re-glaze and re-fire... make sure you reach the proper temperature by soaking at the high ... | |
| blue colored clay | 1/3/2010 |
| Q: Where can I get or how can I make blue clay?hu A: Use a white stoneware clay or porcelain and mix in (Wedge/knead...or for casting slip...stir) you ... | |
| value/age | 1/1/2010 |
| Q: I have a greenish colored with blue fleck covered jar stamped Bennington Potters Cooperaive Design ... A: I believe it is early David Gil design. His numbering system started in 1947 in Bennington with 1300 ... | |
| centering clay | 11/15/2009 |
| Q: I have just begun throwing clay on the wheel. After one class session (two months) I developed ... A: the height of the chair you sit at is important. I try to sit on a stool that is slightly higher ... | |
| glazes | 11/11/2009 |
| Q: My question is I am a college student and I use the clay and kiln that my school has. They only have ... A: For that link..google 'Orton Ceramics' Bisquing is usually cone 06 to 04 or so. The Orton cone ... | |
| firing temperature | 11/9/2009 |
| Q: I am using a transparent stoneware glaze for the first time and wondered what temperatures I should ... A: There is a wide range of temperatures depending on how the glaze is formulated. The clay and the ... | |
| Kiln Question - And Glaze Question | 11/7/2009 |
| Q: I have a kiln that I use for glass firing, will ceramic firing work in the same kiln, or, will ... A: should work fine...firing temps for clay are higher...so assuming your elements are in good ... | |
| clay shrinkage between bisque/ glaze firings | 11/4/2009 |
| Q: Wondering if there's a formula for figuring our the amt. of shrinkage between a bisque firing (o4) ... A: Clay bodies vary in their shrinkage. 9 to 13% is normal from thrown to glaze fired. I have not had ... | |
| Centering | 11/3/2009 |
| Q: Another question occured to me as I was "surfing" the answers here. Is there a trick to centering ... A: Get the clay into a ball put it on the wheel head and slowly rotate the wheel...slap the clay as it ... | |
| Prices | 11/3/2009 |
| Q: Ric, I am a hobby potter who has finally gotten good enough not to be embarassed to give her ... A: do some research...go to some craft galleries and poke around for similar works to yours...check out ... | |
| kiln / oven | 10/23/2009 |
| Q: im interested in making a few personal fixtures and some chilli bowls and coffee mugs and vases. i ... A: sorry can't help you. A kiln goes to 1860 F up to 2300F. an oven goes to 500F. read THE KILN BOOK ... | |
| low-fire kiln - safe materials question | 10/23/2009 |
| Q: We have an art parent at elementary school who has produced a class clay project with no names on ... A: use a cobalt ceramic pencil..and write the names...you can get one from a local ceramic supply ... | |
| Red iron oxide | 10/22/2009 |
| Q: I bisqued a bottle to ^06 then gave it a good and dark wash with red iron oxide, then glazed it ... A: I do see evidence of oxide....but not enough...and did you rub it with a damp sponge to push it into ... | |
| Red iron oxide | 10/22/2009 |
| Q: I bisqued a bottle to ^06 then gave it a good and dark wash with red iron oxide, then glazed it ... A: good question...it should not have disappeared completely....you say it was applied in a dark wash ... | |
| kiln ventilating | 10/17/2009 |
| Q: I live in a retirement community that has just accepted a clay kiln as a gift. It will be placed in ... A: You can buy an electric kiln forced air ventilation to attach to the bottom of the kiln. I believe ... | |
| Glaze tinking??? | 10/13/2009 |
| Q: I made a new glaze. When I pulled my test piece out of the kiln, it was tinking...there is some ... A: Crackle glazes are common. It is a slight defect called crazing usually caused by an imbalance of ... | |
| oil paint on bisque | 10/9/2009 |
| Q: I see one can paint on an item with oil paint, should something be done to it first, or just start ... A: painting on a glazed ceramic surface is like painting on glass. On bisque it will work well.....but ... | |
| terra cotta | 10/6/2009 |
| Q: what is the firing temp for terra cotta? Also, what is the appropriate glaze to use on terra cotta? A: terracotta can be fired at a wide range of temperatures....depending on the formulation. It is ... | |
| Marks on white china plates | 10/5/2009 |
| Q: I purchased a set of White Bone China and have discovered that the more I use it, the more light ... A: Scotchbrite might help. But be careful..if the white glaze is soft, it might dull the glaze over ... | |
| glaze issues | 10/5/2009 |
| Q: I use Duncan underglazes and glazes. On 03/04 bisque I paint entire piece with thin coat of white ... A: Hard to know exactly that might be happening. Try removing the thin white undercoat where the spots ... | |
| re-firing | 10/5/2009 |
| Q: When I re-fire..do I need to do anything to the pot..Do I just re-dip or re-brush??? I have been ... A: Getting the to stick to an already high fired piece is difficult. warm the piece in your kiln....or ... | |
| Decorating Stoneware Mugs | 9/30/2009 |
| Q: Our girl scout troop would like to decorate coffee mugs to give to patients at a veteran's hospital. ... A: paint or anything put in the oven to fix the color will not last even one trip through a dishwasher. ... | |
| more Barium carb questions | 9/25/2009 |
| Q: It was recently brought to my attention that Barium Carbonate is being added to the clay body I use ... A: Monona knows a lot, but I fear she 'protests too much'....there is no proven and documented illness ... | |
| barium carbonate | 9/24/2009 |
| Q: It was recently brought to my attention that Barium Carbonate is being added to the clay body I use ... A: Lots of talk about it, but substantiation of it's harm, unless you 'eat' Barium carbonate....a fair ... | |
| Bisque Firing Schedule | 9/21/2009 |
| Q: We just set up a pottery studio in our home and will be firing our first cone 05 bisque (cone 5 ... A: cooling for 24 hours is probably fine. I would roll a small piece of newsprint and stick it in the ... | |
| metals and pottery | 9/21/2009 |
| Q: Is there a metal that will fire in the electric kiln up to cone 10? If so where might I look for ... A: Ni-chrome and Kanthal wire are used to support ceramic jewelry...They are metal wires that come in ... | |
| Bisque Firing Schedule | 9/19/2009 |
| Q: We just set up a pottery studio in our home and will be firing our first cone 05 bisque (cone 5 ... A: at first go very slowly ...ie overnight to drive out the H20 in thicker clay sections. In the ... | |
| Kiln coil | 9/17/2009 |
| Q: I've recently bought a used (but in excellent condition) Skutt Electric Kiln. The previous owner had ... A: Sorry... my internet connection was down for several days... The elements should be held in place ... | |
| Bisque Firing Schedule | 9/16/2009 |
| Q: We just set up a pottery studio in our home and will be firing our first cone 05 bisque (cone 5 ... A: Sorrry...my internet connection has been down for several days... Go slow....leave the door open ... | |
| Paint used for pottery | 9/16/2009 |
| Q: I painted pottery at one of the local paint pottery studios where you pick a piece, paint it and ... A: Sorry my internet connection has been down for several days... Not sure I understand the ... | |
| Glaze Rubbed Off and Consumed | 9/14/2009 |
| Q: I recently purchased a set of glazed ceramic plates from a dept store (said they were dishwasher, ... A: Sorry...my internet connection was lost for the past few days.... Return them to the store ... | |
| bat holes are too big | 9/10/2009 |
| Q: Is there a way to make the holes on the plasti-bats smaller so they don't wobble on the bat pins or ... A: Re-drilling is probably the best idea. Make a template that is exactly right in spacing mark for ... | |
| deflocculated slip for casting | 9/8/2009 |
| Q: I've been given some casting slip [at least 20yrs old, factory closed down] but still in its plastic ... A: i'm sorry I do not have such experience...old casting slip might loose some of it's defloc. ... | |
| reclaiming clay | 9/7/2009 |
| Q: I haven't been able to do pottery for 4 years and I am having to move from one house to another, ... A: Let it all dry completely...break the chunks into dust...sprinkle the clay into water and let it sit ... | |
| Glazing | 9/4/2009 |
| Q: by accident we fired a bisque kiln to glaze temperature (1200 degrees C.). Is there any possibility ... A: difficult to get the glaze to stick. Heat the pieces in your oven or atop a hot kiln....handle with ... | |
| baking terra cotta | 9/4/2009 |
| Q: I want to make low fire terra cotta pots to bake bread in-- similar to store bought flower pots to ... A: Interesting question. Millions around the world use low temp common earth clay...ie terra cotta ... | |
| Cone 3 Clay? | 9/3/2009 |
| Q: how are you? Is there such a thing as a type of clay that can be fired to just cone 3 ? I heard of ... A: Clays are usually formulated to fire best at a range of temperature. Some have a narrow range ans ... | |
| pottery wheel | 8/31/2009 |
| Q: I bought a used Pacifica GT400 a few months ago. It has sat unused for at least 7 years. It worked ... A: Guessing that Maybe someone sat on the wheel head and bent the shaft.? That happened to one of our ... | |
| arts | 8/30/2009 |
| Q: 1. a piece of pottery hand made from a mold is it a art? 2. a piece of pottery made an sold to a ... A: ah......... the age old question...debated endlessly among artists and craftspeople worldwide. I ... | |
| which pottery wheel to buy? | 8/30/2009 |
| Q: I have become addicted to pottery and plan on buying my own wheel. I don't plan on becoming pro, but ... A: I have a Brent CXC. Bought it in 1972. Never a problem and have thrown more than 100 lbs on it many ... | |
| Clay in Raku | 8/28/2009 |
| Q: When Raku firing, do i need to use "raku" clay? or can I use white stoneware ^6. What ^ is best for ... A: Any clay can be used for Raku....but, grogged clay that can take the heat shock is best. ie clays ... | |
| Plates | 8/26/2009 |
| Q: While sitting in the pantry they seem to growm more mold and i have to thoroughly wash and dry them ... A: Dishes put away wet ...in a dark place can grow mold. It is a very common problem and the rason ... | |
| black clay firing | 8/25/2009 |
| Q: Is bad coal good clay? We in Eastern Montana have the bad lands full of clays. I have dug up some ... A: I have heard of basalt clays that are black. Do not know what a "bad coal" is, however. Test a bit ... | |
| My French pottery smells | 8/16/2009 |
| Q: While living in Europe, I purchased pottery from Soufflenheim, France. I was assured the pottery was ... A: Is it terracotta ware? reddish color? rather porous? That would be a common problem. The porous ... | |
| composition of porcelain/china | 8/9/2009 |
| Q: I have started to research composition of dinnerware. Is it correct that china and porcelain are one ... A: The naturally formed, pure porcelain clay found a thousand years ago near JingDeZhen..at Gao Ling ... | |
| composition of porcelain/china | 8/9/2009 |
| Q: I have started to research composition of dinnerware. Is it correct that china and porcelain are one ... A: www.clayart.org or potterybasics.com Alumina and silica are two of the most common elements on ... | |
| Reglazing Pottery | 8/8/2009 |
| Q: Is it possible to reglaze an old piece of pottery that is used for container gardening? Thank you. A: Possible yes...easy-no. Getting glaze to stick to a glazed surface is like trying to apply glaze to ... | |
| Kiln and envirovent | 8/4/2009 |
| Q: I have just purchased a used Olympic kiln which came with a Skutt Envirovent Model SE1. I keep my ... A: It can help to even out the firing and remove combustibles during the bisque. Firing outside ir is ... | |
| Hairline cracks in planter | 8/1/2009 |
| Q: Today I purchased a large glazed pottery planter, 30" in diamater, at a local nursery. It was in a ... A: eventually it will fall apart...maybe 5 years/....or 50 years from now... epoxy will help to hold ... | |
| Glazing and clay differences | 7/30/2009 |
| Q: If clay is bisque fired to its mature temp at ^10 is it then ok to glaze with a ^6 glaze? Thanks! A: Yes you can do that. The problem will be getting the glaze to absorb into the clay body. You ... | |
| low-fire glazes fired over cone 6 | 7/27/2009 |
| Q: I have a sculpture that has cone 6 glazes on it.I want to refire the piece with low-fire glazes ... A: Yes. It is done all the time. Getting the low temp. glaze to stick will be the issue. Brush ... | |
| Pizza stone | 7/25/2009 |
| Q: I am making a clay pizza stone to fit our grill. I intend to leave it unglazed (otherwise the pizza ... A: mnO2 is not good...is there a LOT of it?..trace amounts are not to worry about.... It will not leach ... | |
| reduction fireing | 7/24/2009 |
| Q: Now i have a larger two burner kiln burners come in from underneath and when i try to reduce by ... A: Yes, it can be very frustrating to loose good work to a poor firing. Is this a commercailly built ... | |
| reduction fireing | 7/23/2009 |
| Q: Now i have a larger two burner kiln burners come in from underneath and when i try to reduce by ... A: Burners nedd primary and secondary air sources. The primary is under the orrifice and there should ... | |
| Firing Slip | 7/19/2009 |
| Q: I want to make earrings about 1&1/2" in diameter using the slip method in a mold and I would like to ... A: There is a type of clay that some jewelry makers use...I think the name is something like ... | |
| reusing old porcelain | 7/17/2009 |
| Q: I am wanting to recycle old porcelain plates by painting them and glazing them. It's a craft project ... A: yes, some are quite soft, but others are quite vibrant and solid in covering old colors. ... | |
| reusing old porcelain | 7/16/2009 |
| Q: I am wanting to recycle old porcelain plates by painting them and glazing them. It's a craft project ... A: That's called CHINA PAINTING and it's a popular hobby. Ceramic low temperature glazes are used but ... | |
| clay body | 7/16/2009 |
| Q: I want to make small baking dishes for my niece's cafe. What clay body would be best for bake ware? A: Best to use an open clay body...not too vitreous (glasslike) A clay body that is fired to a lower ... | |
| buying a used Olympic kiln | 7/16/2009 |
| Q: I have an opportunity to buy a used Olympic 1823WHT kiln with 3 inch walls - fires to cone 10. The ... A: Sounds good. You can test whether the elements work by simply turning the kiln on to high, waiting ... | |
| clay | 7/6/2009 |
| Q: I live in N.Florida and have been offered local clay from an area in St. Augustine Fl. It is in a ... A: first...what is a good result? What do you expect? it is plastic? can stretch? fire to a good ... | |
| Broken cones | 7/4/2009 |
| Q: I have a small electric kiln that I got used, and have fired three times. The first two times I ... A: Inspect the cone before you use it. Keep cones in a dry place. Age doesn't matter as long as the ... | |
| Making a large terra cotta status | 7/3/2009 |
| Q: I am a docent at the Terra Cotta Warrior exhibit in Houston. I am looking for more detail on how ... A: This is conjecture, but I believe it is the same way that life size and larger sculptures are still ... | |
| raku | 6/18/2009 |
| Q: I am wondering if I can immerse a finished piece of raku in water for a period of 2 hours without ... A: As long as it have at some point been bisque fired to the point were it has started to sinter (clay ... | |
| Slip casting | 6/16/2009 |
| Q: how are you.I am trying to find another method for slip casting.I fill the moulds,let the clay dry ... A: different plaster types dry faster and cast faster than others...Pottery Plaster # 1 is porous and ... | |
| Tile making process questions | 6/14/2009 |
| Q: I make handmade tiles, sometimes several hundred square feet at a time. I am looking for efficient ... A: Drying them on squares of plaster wall board works well..You can get scraps of wall board from a ... | |
| low fire vs high fire clay for elementary | 6/11/2009 |
| Q: As an art teacher, I have only taught using high fire stoneware the past 20 years grades K-12 but ... A: What is their reasoning? I think high fire is a better choice for all students. Maybe someone is ... | |
| Oxides | 6/9/2009 |
| Q: I have just started pottery. I am making ceramic pendants. I do not understand oxides and how they ... A: Yeah somewhat scientific...geology.... coloring oxides has certain properties....after firing in ... | |
| Hanging glazed earrings in kiln & porcelain | 6/5/2009 |
| Q: I wanted to make some earrings and glaze fire them. I've noticed the bead rack kiln furniture wire ... A: Kanthal wire is normally used to suspend jewelry in the kiln. The thinner wire will probably not ... | |
| glazing pinch pots | 6/2/2009 |
| Q: One of my special needs students painted the glaze over the entire pot. Even after washing/brushing ... A: Not to worry...unless there is a LOT of glaze there....a small amount will not hurt. If you are ... | |
| 400 bricks with picture. oops ignore other. | 6/1/2009 |
| Q: i really apreciate the input... and now a follow up. i do have fred olson´s kiln book. but the ... A: your sprung arch will support a stack....In fact you could probably stand on it! but maybe not when ... | |
| 400 brick kiln | 6/1/2009 |
| Q: i really apreciate the input... and now a follow up. i do have fred olson´s kiln book. but the ... A: Chimneys are reasons that fireplaces, woodstoves and kilns work well. There MUST be a draft to pull ... | |
| updraft wood kiln | 6/1/2009 |
| Q: hey there experts! i live in the southern most tip of mexico, where pottery supplies are quite ... A: Without a chimney stack, you might have some trouble drawing the flames up to the top reaches of the ... | |
| Broken pieces | 5/25/2009 |
| Q: I have a flat piece that was going to be a wall-hanging. It is textured and glazed and it is really ... A: I don't understand when you say "second bisque firing" why would you bisque already glazed pieces? ... | |
| castable refractory | 5/22/2009 |
| Q: I wan to build a kiln. Is it possible to cast the walls and crown of my kiln ? Are there recipes for ... A: A cone ten clay with paper would not work, IMHO. Real risk of melt down and sagging...of the crown ... | |
| Placement of my kiln, and help using kiln | 5/21/2009 |
| Q: I recently purchased a kiln from an old art teacher. It is a Skutt electric kiln. I was wanting to ... A: Anna, First contact Skutt online and get a set of directions for use of your kiln. They are in ... | |
| Low fire melt down | 5/15/2009 |
| Q: I have a small skutt kiln, model k ks-818-3". I fire both low and high fire clay with a kiln sitter. ... A: It sounds pretty bad. Chipping the pieces out and patching with kiln cement might be your only path. ... | |
| Fettling and sponging | 5/12/2009 |
| Q: how are you.I have many small slabs approximately 22cm x 37cm and 1 cm thickness to fettle and ... A: let them dry slowly and flip them so they do not warp. In San Antonio...We dried tiles on pieces of ... | |
| Terra Cotta Strawberry Planter | 5/11/2009 |
| Q: I was given a terra cotta strawberry planter. I had planned to plant herbs in it. Dirty motor oil ... A: Maybe clean it with isopropyl (rubbing)alcohol? I have not run into this problem before. I know ... | |
| How to high fire to cone 6 | 5/10/2009 |
| Q: I am a new potter and have a small Duncan Teacher's kiln that I have been using for several years to ... A: If you are letting your wares dry for 24 hours...no problem. I have seen people put freshly glazed ... | |
| How to high fire to cone 6 | 5/10/2009 |
| Q: I am a new potter and have a small Duncan Teacher's kiln that I have been using for several years to ... A: Make sure the glaze is cleaned off the foot of each pieces...I use a small sponge. If there is any ... | |
| re-firing a glased bisque mug | 5/4/2009 |
| Q: I own a craft store - we also do paint your own pottery. A customer painted a bisque mug with ... A: just looking at it....it appears that the rim was glazed with a white glaze instead of a clear? I ... | |
| clay bodies and glazes | 5/1/2009 |
| Q: I have not worked with clay for thirty years. I have a BS in art, with emphases in ceramics. I have ... A: Pat, Sounds like a good direction to go. Using local brick clays is something I am doing in China ... | |
| Glaze | 4/30/2009 |
| Q: How do I Airbrush ceramic glaze A: Ceramic materials are very abrasive and will quickly wear out an airbrush nozzle. I use a simple ... | |
| underfired and crawling | 4/28/2009 |
| Q: I have a kilnload of large, underglaze-painted pots underfired (aiming at 1100C) due to a power cut ... A: no sure fire solution.(pun intended) I would set the pieces aside and fire a few....using ... | |
| Career in pottery. | 4/28/2009 |
| Q: For a very long time I have been passionate about doing creative activities. I love painting over ... A: Kajal, Big questions...many possible answers. 1.) seek out a successful local potter and ... | |
| low fire clay/glaze | 4/24/2009 |
| Q: I asked earlier question re flowers floating on low fire clay. At first I did not use anything to ... A: If this is the first time this has happened in 15 years, SOMETHING has changed. We once had ... | |
| BEST KILN | 4/24/2009 |
| Q: I am going to be buying a new kiln for my ceramics program and wonder if you could give my some ... A: There are a lot of good kilns out there. Paragon makes fine kilns. Howard Arnold is the contact man ... | |
| mexican outdoor oven - pizza oven | 4/24/2009 |
| Q: I hope u can help. I have one of the above and the oven is falling to bits. The bulb of the oven is ... A: Those things are fragile and fired to very low temperatures. Pit fired in Mexico. You can try ... | |
| Making slabs of clay | 4/23/2009 |
| Q: how are you.I make slabs approximately 20cm x 30cm and 2cm thick from clay.Then I engrave names on ... A: dry them on an aborbant surface, like a piece of gypsum drywall...sheetrock...turn them periodically ... | |
| low fire clay/glaze | 4/23/2009 |
| Q: I asked earlier question re flowers floating on low fire clay. At first I did not use anything to ... A: You must 'attach' the pieces together...laying them on top does not attach them. Roughen the two ... | |
| clay/glaze problems | 4/23/2009 |
| Q: I've been using a new Trinity low-fire clay. I've stuck small flowers to plates, fired at 03 to ... A: how are you attaching the pieces? using slip? scratching the surfaces? using vinegar in the slip? ... | |
| firing stoneware | 4/20/2009 |
| Q: If I am not going to glaze my finished stoneware piece, is it necessary to fire it in a cone 04 ... A: Not necessary to bisque it first....but remember that this glaze firing must be started just as ... | |
| Acrylic paint and Mid-fire clay | 4/18/2009 |
| Q: I am unhappy with glazes on the outside of my work (too shiny, not consistent etc) and was told that ... A: Possible yes. Valid as ceramic...no Why not use matt glazes that are not shiny? or use glaze stains ... | |
| Oil painting on bisque | 4/17/2009 |
| Q: I was wondering if you can paint directly on bisque ware with oil based paints or if you need to ... A: Yes you can. It will not be as durable as glaze or china paints however. Ceramics should be fired ... | |
| Paragon A82B | 4/16/2009 |
| Q: The bottom of my kiln is really messed up from overfiring and melting of clay. Can I just take it ... A: My advice is to call Paragon in Texas and get their advice directly. They are very helpful. ... | |
| Firing in a Paragon A82B | 4/13/2009 |
| Q: This is the second time I fired greenware to bisque and when I opened the kiln everything was ... A: wrong clay? wrong temp? Just figure out the right temp. clays and glaze have optimum temps. ... | |
| painting corelle dinnerware | 4/11/2009 |
| Q: can we paint on white plain corelle dinneware that was brought from store? can we paint on already ... A: China paints are just low fire glazes...colorful...bright colors. Get them at any ceramic hobby ... | |
| painting corelle dinnerware | 4/10/2009 |
| Q: can we paint on white plain corelle dinneware that was brought from store? can we paint on already ... A: corelle is a form of glass....mostly silica...very little if any alumina...like clays. Corning ... | |
| no clue what I'm doing | 4/10/2009 |
| Q: I have a bowl that has been fired w/ no paint on it. I am painting it for a school project and was ... A: Enamel or acrylic Paint will not survive the temperature of a kiln. Depending what minerals were ... | |
| cracking after glaze fire | 4/6/2009 |
| Q: I am a functional potter from Montana. I recently did a firing where I accidentally fired to cone ... A: There might be several explainations: That particular glaze, overfired slightly might be more ... | |
| Pottery Glaze | 3/28/2009 |
| Q: Have old piece of pottery that glaze is flaking off,can glaze be completely removed or touched up? A: Looks like maybe old low fired ware. Not much you can safely do. BUT you can try applying a low ... | |
| electric kiln glaze firing | 3/22/2009 |
| Q: Could you pls help me out I have just started wheel throwing pottery after a relatively short ... A: Stilts are usually used for low temperatures. cone 5 and above, potters usually remove all glaze ... | |
| Cracks | 3/21/2009 |
| Q: Good Morning.........I am a little frustrated this morning and I am hoping you can help me. I am a ... A: Firstly, how thick are the pieces? Are they of even thickness throughout? What clay body are you ... | |
| Imperfections in piece after final firing | 3/21/2009 |
| Q: I recently made a platter with a 15 inch diameter in a slump mold. It was 3/8 of an inch thick. All ... A: Some say that clay has "memory". Once it has been moved or scarred, the firing will help the clay ... | |
| low fire pieces and oven usage | 3/17/2009 |
| Q: My students are using low fire clay and low fire glaze (06). They want to make pieces they can bake ... A: The only real issue is heating and cooling the ceramics SLOWLY. Do not put the pie in a pre-heated ... | |
| Repainting Ceramic Cake Stands | 3/16/2009 |
| Q: I'm interested in repainting porcelain department store cake stands but they still need to be food ... A: Do you mean with paint? or glazes? Paint will not stick for long to a glazed ceramic surface...do ... | |
| firing air dry clay | 3/12/2009 |
| Q: I have some very old clay that I am rehydrating. I am not sure but there may be about 10 to 15% air ... A: If by air dry clay you mean plastaline? Clay mixed with oils....? If it has dried and it will even ... | |
| red raku glaze recipe | 3/9/2009 |
| Q: I am searching for a red raku glaze recipe as the manufactured one I use from Scarva Pottery ... A: sorry...all my raku recipes are in Atlanta...and I am in JingDeZhen, China. There should be other ... | |
| health issues in clay pots | 3/7/2009 |
| Q: I am wanting to serve food out of a plain clay flower pot. Can this to your knowledge be a health ... A: Many people around the world eat from plain terracotta wares. The clay will be quite porous and ... | |
| Using cone 04 and 06 glazes | 2/26/2009 |
| Q: I'm planning to paint a bisque teapot to match my china. I have a gold glaze that is supposed to be ... A: If you re-fire a cone 06 glaze to cone 04 (which is about 70 degrees F. hotter,) it might affect ... | |
| cooperative design | 2/25/2009 |
| Q: I have a pitcher and set of 8 mugs stamped cooperative design bennington vermont. Could this be an ... A: David Gil did almost all the design work at Bennington Potters Inc....from 1947 till he died about 5 ... | |
| Releasing molds | 2/25/2009 |
| Q: I've recently been experimenting with making plaster press molds. The items I am making molds of ... A: new molds never work well. Try a few more casts and the mold will probably improve and release ... | |
| Plaster Casting Arms | 2/24/2009 |
| Q: and i was wondering if you could give some tips and pointers on how to cast my arm. I'm trying to ... A: Wow...big question. Are you going to slip cast ceramic arms in plaster molds? If so...I suggest you ... | |
| Low Fire Glaze problem! | 2/23/2009 |
| Q: I teach jr high art- I have 4 student sculptures that recently had glazing problems. Re-creating ... A: Yes. Try a re-fire at a little hotter temperature. Clay can be re-fired countless times. If that ... | |
| Wedging Clay | 2/21/2009 |
| Q: Do you have to wedge clay that comes packaged from distributor. I've heard that it's not necessary, ... A: Clay that has been run through a de-airing pug mill might need little kneading or wedging. ... | |
| Bisque firing a ^6 clay | 2/21/2009 |
| Q: I've thrown pottery for about 3 years and always had someone else fire it for me. I bought my own ... A: You want the clay to be fired at a lower temperature than the glaze fire. The bisque should be easy ... | |
| Ceramic and Glass | 2/20/2009 |
| Q: I will be starting my student teaching very soon and I would really like to do a project where the ... A: One idea might to have the students make ceramic wall pouches. You can make them any size. Make a ... | |
| oxides | 2/19/2009 |
| Q: I am a huge fan of using red iron oxide as a stain with carved pieces, without the use of a glaze on ... A: Although they are more expensive than simple oxides like red iron oxide you might try body stains or ... | |
| removing "wash" from a pot | 2/13/2009 |
| Q: I just recieved a nice handthrown jar with a cover, all around the edge of the cover is a white ... A: A stiff bristle brush will usually remove it...use some water with the brush. If it doesn't come ... | |
| fireing of an ald kiln | 2/7/2009 |
| Q: I pray you can help me, I do ceramics for a hobby and I was given an old kiln, it has "reward ... A: First, GOOGLE Reward Kilns. You should be able to get kiln instructions on-line. use of Cones ... | |
| Kiln location | 2/5/2009 |
| Q: My dear Ric. I am hoping that you can help me. I have a blue diamond kiln that was given to me a ... A: The size depends on what you need to comfortably work in that space loading and unloading the kiln. ... | |
| Kiln location | 2/4/2009 |
| Q: My dear Ric. I am hoping that you can help me. I have a blue diamond kiln that was given to me a ... A: Wow. Lots of questions. I will try to help. Putting the kiln outside is a good idea because your ... | |
| Brushing on glazes | 2/3/2009 |
| Q: I am relatively new to this. I have read on a mfr's website about "brushing" glazes. I bought some ... A: It does take practice to brush glazes on smoothly. Several thinner coats put on at diagonal ... | |
| kiln temp | 2/1/2009 |
| Q: do you know how I can find out if a American beauty kiln model AB will fire cone 6 for stoneware? ... A: Contact the manufacturer through the internet and get their online instructions. If they are not in ... | |
| plaster mold making | 2/1/2009 |
| Q: I would like to make a plaster slip casting mold for dinner dishes. Can you tell me how to do that? A: There is not an easy answer. I suggest you borrow a copy of 'Moldmaking for Ceramics', by Donald ... | |
| Making Bucchero ware | 2/1/2009 |
| Q: I'm interested in trying to re-create the ancient etruscan bucchero ware: black pottery made by ... A: Reduction firing can be done in a kiln that burns fuel (not electric neutral atmosphere where heat ... | |
| refiring | 1/27/2009 |
| Q: I work with cone 6 stoneware/glazes. What is the best way to prepare the surface of a piece that has ... A: Just make sure surface is clean...thicken the glaze by letting it settle and scoop some water off ... | |
| Porcelain | 1/22/2009 |
| Q: Please if you can tell me something about this item and if there is a market. Has been in my family ... A: It looks quite old and in good shape....from the photo. I googled: 'Eking, English Porcelain' and ... | |
| Clay Mask | 1/14/2009 |
| Q: I am a properties artisan at a regional theatre, and we are making a replica of a Congo tribal mask. ... A: Interesting question. The first rule of water based ceramic clay is that it shrinks when drying. ... | |
| way overfired | 1/11/2009 |
| Q: I used very white #10 clay (a low fire)...my kiln in 4 hours on high only got up to 1370 degrees ... A: Yes you can and should clean up the mess. CAREFULLY use a chisel to chip the melted clay out...it ... | |
| glazes | 1/8/2009 |
| Q: is it possible to paint with different coloured glazes on the same plate, do the colours all meld ... A: Yes. The glazes will melt together and blur the edges a bit. If you keep them carefully separated, ... | |
| i need all info and instructions on how to use a kiln | 1/6/2009 |
| Q: i got one but don't know how to use it i have lot's of paint's and pottery but how do i use the kiln ... A: First, find out the brand of kiln. Then go to their website to get instruction booklet for that ... | |
| kiln repair | 1/6/2009 |
| Q: I'm actually a glass fuser sneaking in here with a kiln question. I have an Evenheat Kiln that has ... A: Yes, soak the piece in water for a second...sponge the area where you will repair...with water. Use ... | |
| kiln doesn't heat up | 1/3/2009 |
| Q: I have a second hand Cress FX27 kiln. I had the wiring checked when I got it, and the electrician ... A: Turn the kiln on....with the door open and watch the elements. They should start to glow on hot ... | |
| earthenware underglaze on stoneware clay body | 12/30/2008 |
| Q: Ric: Middle School Visual Arts teacher here (: We traditionally work with an earthenware clay body ... A: You are right to want to test first.....but I see no reason that what you propose wouldn't work. ... | |
| glazing | 12/24/2008 |
| Q: I just mistakenly fired a "bisque" load to cone 5. I always fire to 04, glaze and then glaze fire ... A: The problem becomes getting a thick eough coat of glaze to stick to the pots. It will take some ... | |
| Too Risky To Fire In Kiln | 12/14/2008 |
| Q: I've been trying to work on a clay sculpture (A "piggy" bank in the shape of a cat) but I'm too ... A: Janessa, I'd use a heavily grogged/sandy clay that is OPEN and will dry well. Scupture clay or raku ... | |
| Glaze and Firing | 12/13/2008 |
| Q: I purchased Laguna Dynasty Glazes (C-5)and there are not instructions on jar as to how many coats to ... A: FIRST: Make sure the glaze is well mixed....glaze tends to sttle with heavy materials packing in the ... | |
| firing | 12/11/2008 |
| Q: i am making x-mas ornaments and have some red clay they are now dry and i want to fire them but i ... A: Even a low fire is at least 1000 F. Take the pieces to a local ceramics shop (look in the yellow ... | |
| repair a ceramic item made at school | 12/10/2008 |
| Q: my jr high school son made a sign and a bowl in his ceramics class and the sign broke in half and i ... A: If it is not yet fired, fire it then use two part epoxy to glue the broken pieces together. If not ... | |
| glazing greenware | 12/10/2008 |
| Q: We have an electric kiln at our elementary school. We always use low fire clay. We also glaze our ... A: The wax will burn off at glaze temp and leave little evidence of it ever being there. It is smelly ... | |
| Repairing glaze on ceramic table top | 12/9/2008 |
| Q: I have a Danish design table with ceramic tiles on top which has been outside in the garden for some ... A: Interesting problem. Exposure may have damaged the actual surface of the glaze. Abrasive cleaners, ... | |
| natural gas supply for kiln | 12/9/2008 |
| Q: I am getting a used gas kiln about 9 cu.ft. It is set up to fire on natural gas. My gas company ... A: One pound of pressure should be enough. My 24 foot Olsen Kiln used less than half a pound of ... | |
| cracked greenware bowl | 12/8/2008 |
| Q: Is there any way to repair a fully dry greenware bowl that split on the mold. I could not remove ... A: You should remove pieces from the mold when they are still moist....they will crack if left in the ... | |
| Glaze Crawling | 12/7/2008 |
| Q: I am having a huge problem with glaze crawling around the rims. I work with porcelain and have been ... A: Three things occur to me. 1.) dust on the rim can cause crawling. Sponge off the ware before ... | |
| Clear glaze | 12/4/2008 |
| Q: I am using Amaco's Sahara Dry Clear Hf-10 glaze over underglaze and everything worked out fine in ... A: Sounds under-fired. Try firing again at the proper temp? You can re-fire until it works. It might ... | |
| pit holes | 12/3/2008 |
| Q: I was wondering if you dipped the bisqued stoneware pot and still got the pitting or pin holes is ... A: rub the same glaze into the pinholes and re-fire. It usually works....you can re-fire as many times ... | |
| kiln capabilities | 12/2/2008 |
| Q: If I fire a cone 5 glaze at cone 6, would the color be lost or made less vivid? Or, if I fire a ... A: Of course it depends on the glaze. Some colorant oxides are very sensitive....most are not that ... | |
| Glaze crazing | 12/2/2008 |
| Q: I just unloaded a glaze kiln (cone 10 reduction on grolleg porcelain) and alot of my glazes are ... A: Sounds like a quick cool to me. You can re-fire the pieces and cool them more slowly this time. ... | |
| kiln wash | 12/2/2008 |
| Q: We are firing to cone 10 in reductions and using silicon carbide shelves. Every time we fire a ... A: Kiln washes vary in composition and formulae. I used 50 percent silica (Flint) and 45 percent ... | |
| Glazes and clays | 11/30/2008 |
| Q: Can I use a medium (Cone 6) glaze on stoneware/high fire clay? Thank you Debby A: yes, usually that will work fine. Of course some glazes will work better than others. Can you do ... | |
| Porcelain buttons | 11/30/2008 |
| Q: I would like to find a source for porcelain that would be suitable to make buttons. I have a kiln, ... A: Nearly any porcelain made for wheel throwing or handbuilding should work well for making buttons. ... | |
| Lattice work | 11/29/2008 |
| Q: I made a lattice plate that came out stunningly. I have tried to repeat the exercise a few times ... A: It sounds like the clay is a bit dry. Try wrapping the clay in a wet towel and put it in a plastic ... | |
| slip as glaze | 11/28/2008 |
| Q: I teach 7 & 8th grade art as well as painting and drawing 9-12. I have had to learn to do pottery to ... A: Just water down some white/ or porcelain clay into a slip...that will take some work, but it's a ... | |
| Firing electric kiln | 11/25/2008 |
| Q: I recently bought a 2nd hand kiln (Estrin)and am doing a trial run: I put a cone plaque in with 3 ... A: I had not heard of the kiln before, but there are folks who know how to repair them or replace the ... | |
| Firing electric kiln | 11/24/2008 |
| Q: I recently bought a 2nd hand kiln (Estrin)and am doing a trial run: I put a cone plaque in with 3 ... A: Debby, ...first of all I am not sure your electric kiln will go to cone 9. If you want to fire to ... | |
| Function of Pottery | 11/20/2008 |
| Q: I have a peice of pottery that I need to identify and research for a final project in a class. I ... A: I can't tell the size...but maybe a covered cheese or butter dish. A Brie cheese round would fit ... | |
| I need to harden work and kiln is broken! | 11/17/2008 |
| Q: Help! I am a first year teacher who ran a class on ceramic kilns. My entire class made them, then ... A: Pit fire. The ancient method. Dry the pieces well, build a bonfire in a dug pit about 2 feet deep, ... | |
| firing cone 10 clay with cone 5 glaze | 11/14/2008 |
| Q: I have a pot made of cone 10 soldate fired to 08 bisque, can I use a cone 10 glze under a cone 5 ... A: If you have had success before, just do it the same way. Cone ten clay should be fired to cone ten, ... | |
| Glaze problem | 11/13/2008 |
| Q: I recently mixed a batch of glaze but made it too runny which resulted in a very poor finish. The ... A: Easy to fix the thin glaze. Just let it sit stil for several days and the glaze solids will sink ... | |
| Glaze problem | 11/12/2008 |
| Q: I recently mixed a batch of glaze but made it too runny which resulted in a very poor finish. The ... A: You say the glaze was too runny. Do you mean it was applied too thinnly? or that you formulated it ... | |
| kiln location | 11/12/2008 |
| Q: i must move my kiln out of its current home (my basement). i'd like to fire it in the garage-no ... A: I lived in Alaska for 25 years. IMHO freezing won't hurt the kiln or your wares either. Raw Clay ... | |
| clay work with my grde 3 class | 11/10/2008 |
| Q: What's involved in firing tiles? Can I reglaze already,glazed tiles? (eg. colour on white tiles.) A: Yes that can be done. Stay with low temperature glazes. Commercial tiles are usually fired at a ... | |
| terra cotta chimenea | 11/5/2008 |
| Q: I have an outdoor terra cotta chimenea that I never have had a chance to use so far this year. It ... A: You can try furnace cement. It is available at most hardware stores. It will take the heat and if ... | |
| kiln firing | 11/4/2008 |
| Q: I recently acquired a used manual kiln. It is a Gare Model 9 with a Dawson kiln sitter. I have ... A: there are only about 36 degrees difference between cones at that temp. The large and small cones ... | |
| transfers | 11/3/2008 |
| Q: Do you know where I can order or purchase a farmal tractor decal to put on a pottery peice for my ... A: I'm not sure, but you can try Heinrich Ceramic decals in Worcester, Mass. You can reach them ... | |
| stoneware mugs leak | 11/1/2008 |
| Q: I recently started using Cone 5 stoneware clay to make mugs, bowls, etc. I bisque fired to Cone 05 ... A: If the water you put into the cups is a different temperature than the surrounding air...steaming ... | |
| porcelite | 10/30/2008 |
| Q: Ric you ansewered the question about porcelite wrong as the substance you are refering to is for ... A: so what is a porcelain bathtub made from? Steel? You are obviously not in tune with the ceramics ... | |
| propane firing | 10/29/2008 |
| Q: I have a an Olympic Torchbearer Kiln and I am having trouble with my propane tank freezing when I ... A: This is always a problem with propane....and especially in cold weather and/or the demand is high. ... | |
| what kinds of clay can be compatible with the Duncan and Mayco (USA) hobby glazes | 10/29/2008 |
| Q: It's my first time to ask questions here. I'm new to this industry. I have relized that bisque/glaze ... A: you should get a basic book about clay and study it. There is too much information you ned to know. ... | |
| firing | 10/28/2008 |
| Q: I have a kiln that you program, you do not use the little cones in it. We are firing bisque that has ... A: The glaze container should have the cone number wrtten on it. ie. cone 06 or whatever. That cone ... | |
| kilns | 10/24/2008 |
| Q: I want to open a small pottery studio but I don't know how big,what kind of kiln and what other ... A: WOW Big questions.... maybe start with an electric kiln. Suitable size. Like Paragon, or ... | |
| glaze | 10/23/2008 |
| Q: My students have made an "impression" piece. I have fired the slab pots with the shells, leaves, so ... A: Yes....just use your current glazes and rub them into the impressions. Water them down..... You will ... | |
| glaze | 10/22/2008 |
| Q: My students have made an "impression" piece. I have fired the slab pots with the shells, leaves, so ... A: you can stain the impressed areas with colorants like the oxides or glaze stains that give glazes ... | |
| removing was resist | 10/19/2008 |
| Q: I'm a beginner at this. Goofed today and got wax resist on the side of two mugs. Can I sand it off ... A: there are several ways to remove wax resist... chemically....by acetone.....nail polish ... | |
| Hard Clay | 10/13/2008 |
| Q: I have about a thousand pounds of clay that is in plastic bags. The clay is a couple of years old ... A: Is it completely dried out? If so....take it out of the bags, let it dry to bone dry, break it into ... | |
| buying an electric kiln | 10/12/2008 |
| Q: i am going to purchase a kiln soon. i'm looking at the olympic oval model 2518. it's 7.93 cu ft ... A: Susan, Yes good quality and value for the money. I have dealt with Olympic several times on their ... | |
| How to stick handles to mugs. | 10/9/2008 |
| Q: I have problems sticking handles to casting mugs.Small cracks develop at the sticking place after ... A: Use a dulled chopstick to PEG the moist slip....push it into the joint...maybe even use a little ... | |
| low fire glazes | 10/8/2008 |
| Q: I am an old high fire stoneware potter who is looking to make a few low fire mugs in reds and ... A: Mayco, Amaco,and Coyote all sell low fire glazes, in dry and liquid forms. You could try a ... | |
| spongeware pitcher mark | 10/6/2008 |
| Q: Good evening. I was wondering if you could help me with a trademark symbol. I can't seem to find ... A: sorry, not my expertese. Spongeware was made a lot in England....then early in Bennington,VT and ... | |
| Old pottery vase ID help needed | 10/5/2008 |
| Q: It has a mork I can't find anything about. Here is a pic I have more but I can't post them here A: It looks beautiful. The plain clay, unglazed brown color tell me it is probably recent....within the ... | |
| Pottery wheel conversion? | 10/2/2008 |
| Q: Firstly, thanks for taking this email. I purchased a kick wheel for my girlfriend about a year ago. ... A: I have used lathes a little and potter's wheels a lot. wheel is Vertical shaft...lathe is ... | |
| Cleaning oven to table ware | 9/26/2008 |
| Q: The China we have is an over to table ware. It is very thick pottery like set. We have recently ... A: If it is just dirt, a dishwasher should take off the stains...dishwasher soap is quite caustic and ... | |
| Propane burners | 9/25/2008 |
| Q: I have been teaching at my high school for 9yrs. For 9yrs I have been trying to get a what I thought ... A: The orifice at the end of the burners.....where the gas comes out will be smaller for propane ... | |
| reglazing pottery | 9/21/2008 |
| Q: I have some old hull china that has been in the family for a long time and was wondering if there ... A: You can try just re-firing the pottery. No need to reglaze, unless the existing glaze is actually ... | |
| earthenware with high fire glaze? | 9/19/2008 |
| Q: when i went to the store to buy glaze, i told the guy i had stoneware so he suggested cone 05 for ... A: If the clay you have is an earthenware and should be fired at ^06 (1900 F.) and you glaze it with ... | |
| low fire clay and high fire glaze | 9/14/2008 |
| Q: Can I use a high fire glaze on low fire clay (125) with decent results A: NO! do not do that. You can use LOW fire glazes on high fire clay, but not the opposite. and low ... | |
| Raku kiln | 9/12/2008 |
| Q: I am getting ready to purchase an older Olympic raku kiln 18" (about 8 years old but in good shape) ... A: The only difference is the size of the tiny 'orifice' tip of the burner. A propane orifice is ... | |
| firing low fire high | 9/8/2008 |
| Q: My question is simple...what happens when you fire cone 3 glazes to cone 5 temps. I guess i am ... A: Of course it depends entirely on the make-up of the glaze. Glazes are a combination of minerals, ... | |
| mixing ash into clay? | 9/8/2008 |
| Q: i scuplt mostly using sculpy. my 5 year old friend's dog willy died and she asked me (with big ... A: To make a more permanent sculpture....make the shape of stoneware clay...bisque fire it somewhere in ... | |
| problem with wheel head? | 9/5/2008 |
| Q: I bought a used wheel a year ago. I always had problems with it, but it sat outside on a ... A: My first idea is that maybe someone sat on the wheel head at some point and maybe the shaft is ... | |
| dug clay | 9/2/2008 |
| Q: I dug some clay from my property; mixed it with water to a slurry then screened it to remove chunks ... A: kaolin is also a type of clay. Usually it is quite high in feldspar. In the raw state it is quite ... | |
| dug clay | 9/2/2008 |
| Q: I dug some clay from my property; mixed it with water to a slurry then screened it to remove chunks ... A: particle size of materials for clays are all-important. Is it a calcined kaolin? that can help. ... | |
| missing pottery chip | 9/1/2008 |
| Q: How can I repair a platter that is chipped on the upper side? it is a painted serving platter that ... A: difficult to make it 100 percent again. Cosmetically you can try acyric paint...Build up some white ... | |
| Porcelain | 9/1/2008 |
| Q: Ric, is there any paint(enamel?) that I can use on fired porcelain, (in this case a freestanding ... A: Epoxy paint might be the answer. Maybe the kind used to paint garage floors. There are marine ... | |
| stoneware glaze | 8/28/2008 |
| Q: I am a novice potter and have been using a low fire red clay (bisque 04) and glaze (06). The store I ... A: For a cone six clay body, common practice would be to bisque at cone 06 (1830 F.)...apply a cone ... | |
| stoneware glaze | 8/27/2008 |
| Q: I am a novice potter and have been using a low fire red clay (bisque 04) and glaze (06). The store I ... A: The lower temp. glazes will work. BUT, The body will be a little soft (ie not as vitrified and ... | |
| Raku color | 8/26/2008 |
| Q: how are you? I've been firing Raku since this year.I read that unless the piece is submerged in ... A: Theories vary on the best ways to secure the colors. After reduction I have usually quenched them ... | |
| Kiln repair | 8/25/2008 |
| Q: Can you recommend someone who can repair my kiln.... I think it needs new heating coils. It just ... A: No, not in Anchorage....I visited there in Jan.-Feb but back in JingDeZhen, China, teaching again. ... | |
| Bennington Pottery Agate | 8/21/2008 |
| Q: I just inherited a set of the Agate pattern in the cobalt blue and tan. I love it, but can you tell ... A: There are numbers and letter on the bottoms of all pieces. YA = Yuske Aieda, Japanese designer who ... | |
| glaze formulas | 8/19/2008 |
| Q: I am looking for a food safe ^6 glaze in the lavender or wisteria, periwinkle shades of purple. I ... A: Easier to find those shades at lower temps but try Meagn at Kickwheel Pottery Supply in Atlanta, or ... | |
| leak in pottery mug | 8/15/2008 |
| Q: How can I safely fix a pottery mug that has a slow leak in the bottom. I tried sealant but it did ... A: You can try a two part epoxy and apply it to the bottom of the piece, where the leak is. This may ... | |
| Raku Firing | 8/14/2008 |
| Q: I want to raku fire pieces such as vases but would like for them to be used and hold water. I ... A: Raku is inherently weak in my opinion. With a lot of trial and error you may have luck. Some ... | |
| rolling/pressing clay | 8/13/2008 |
| Q: I have purchased white earthenware clay, I am trying to roll it to make round discs. It is sticking ... A: Cloth. Many use a light canvas material to cover their work table. If you have an old bed sheet, ... | |
| Unfired Pottery | 8/13/2008 |
| Q: have a rather large vase that I'd like to paint but it hasn't been fired. When you run your hand ... A: You really should fire it first, but if that is not possible, just lightly sponge the surface to ... | |
| cone 5 clear matt glaze,tile casting | 8/9/2008 |
| Q: question 1. why cant we find a cone 5/6 clear matt glaze--and we had one once -but it turned milky ... A: I am quite sure such glazes are available in commercial form. Have you contacted Mayco, Amaco, or ... | |
| porcelian firing tempertures for bisque// and glaze? | 8/7/2008 |
| Q: I am a glassblower ...someone renting our house broke a lid from a canister set so I have recreated ... A: marcie, I think one of the major differences about clay and glass...in production, is that clay ... | |
| scratches on pottery dinnerware | 8/4/2008 |
| Q: I recently purchase some hand-crafted pottery dinnerware from a local artisan's shop. It is not ... A: Laurene, Are the marks grey in color? If so it is metal coming off the knives while people are ... | |
| paint on 70 yr old clay pot | 7/30/2008 |
| Q: I have an 18" tall clay flower pot that sat on parents porch many years. It is approximately 65 ... A: Carol, Clean the surface and give it a thin coat of oil based paint. Paint does weather after that ... | |
| paint old fired pottery | 7/29/2008 |
| Q: I have some figurines that are about 25 years old. They were painted when new with a white shiny ... A: Bob, As with all painting, you should sand and remove all chips and flakes. Remove the dust from ... | |
| firing cone 10 clay at cone 6 | 7/26/2008 |
| Q: I am new to the pottery realm and bought cone 10 clay for my first batch of bowls and plates. I ... A: Kelly, You can do that. The results will depend on the glazes you choose. The cone ten body will ... | |
| Kiln maintenaince and care | 7/22/2008 |
| Q: I have done pottery in teaching studios off and on for many years. I don't have access to one where ... A: You don't say the brand of kiln you bought. The manufacturer no doubt has instructions and ... | |
| once firing at cone 6 | 7/15/2008 |
| Q: I would like to save on energy. Can I glaze and fire at cone 6 in my electric kiln if I ramp up ... A: Some glazes will work well for once firing. Usually CMC Gum (carboxy-methyl -cellulose....the same ... | |
| selecting clay for pottery | 7/13/2008 |
| Q: I am not doing pottery, per se, but I am writing a short story about a potter and I was wondering if ... A: Common surface clays are avalilble thoughout the world. Brick clay is common every where....... Clay ... | |
| Opinion on kiln | 7/9/2008 |
| Q: I am new to working with clay. I am hand building objects and experimenting with slab building. I ... A: Of course I can't see it from here....but it sounds like a good deal. If you get it, have it wired ... | |
| What is the wire used that can be fired in clay? | 7/2/2008 |
| Q: I am making some small jewellery items and require to fire a wire loop in the pieces. I have seen ... A: I believe there are two names that you can search for in your local ceramics supply store. ... | |
| Fireclay | 6/27/2008 |
| Q: I have a fireclay sink that is white. I has a chip in it and needs to be repaired to the point of ... A: It will be difficult to get the glaze to stick to the shiney glazed surface. I have never done this ... | |
| Fireclay | 6/27/2008 |
| Q: I have a fireclay sink that is white. I has a chip in it and needs to be repaired to the point of ... A: Porcelain, or vitreous china for sinks, toilets, etc. is usually high fired to about 2380 F. Then ... | |
| Gas or Electric? | 6/26/2008 |
| Q: My sister and I have taken a few years worth of pottery classes at our local community college. We ... A: When I built my studio in Anchorage, I started with an electric Skutt kiln....and worked at cone ... | |
| Repairing Stoneware | 6/20/2008 |
| Q: We dropped a stoneware cookie sheet from Pampered Chef this morning and there is a clean break ... A: sorry...I have never had any luck with glue when it has to go in the oven. I have tried epoxy but ... | |
| Question about Tonala Pottery | 6/19/2008 |
| Q: I found a few pieces of this pottery in my basement when I moved in. It doesn't look old, but there ... A: Not my area of expertese..... It is folk pottery from Mexico, no doubt. Common and sold widely. ... | |
| pinging | 6/13/2008 |
| Q: I am an impatient pottery and cool my kiln quickly by venting the lid about 8-12 hours after shut ... A: I have heard of pots dunting months later....never happened to me, but.... pinging can continue ... | |
| pinging | 6/12/2008 |
| Q: I am an impatient pottery and cool my kiln quickly by venting the lid about 8-12 hours after shut ... A: The pinging is probably the glaze crazing.....you may not see it....but it's the quick cooling ... | |
| Making Tiles | 6/9/2008 |
| Q: I've started trying to make my own tiles with some success. However, I am confused about ... A: they will shink a little more in bisque fire and quite a bit in glaze fire. The shrinkage of course ... | |
| pottery | 6/5/2008 |
| Q: ihave a pair of figurines of a boy and girl covered in fruits cream coloured and gold guilt edging , ... A: I found 380 references to "klm staffordshire earthenware ceramics" on GOOGLE just now. The more ... | |
| Slip Casting and Jolleying | 6/2/2008 |
| Q: i'm a student and was wondering if you could help me out with a project i have to do. i wanted to ... A: Production people are usually semi-skilled folks...off the street. Any one can be trained to do ... | |
| Slip Casting and Jolleying | 6/1/2008 |
| Q: i'm a student and was wondering if you could help me out with a project i have to do. i wanted to ... A: Other than the fact that both production systems use plaster molds, the two are very different. ... | |
| blue lady | 5/30/2008 |
| Q: My mother inherited a figurine - we call it the blue lady. We were trying to figure out how old and ... A: Sorry, most of my knowledge is pretty practical. I do know that htere are reference books available ... | |
| Reglazing toilet tanks | 5/26/2008 |
| Q: I have several salvaged ceramic toilet tanks in wonderful pastel colors that I use as flower pots ... A: Yes, possible. Of course you have to have a kiln big enough and shelves srong enough to support ... | |
| ceramic figuerines | 5/24/2008 |
| Q: I have a pair of book ends one a lady and one a gentleman dressed in top hat and crinoline. They ... A: Usually there is a maker's mark on the bottom. That will help you ID the maker. You can contact a ... | |
| Repairing Stoneware | 5/21/2008 |
| Q: My mom recently shipped me four Iron Mountain Stoneware mugs. Two of them were damaged during ... A: only one real chance. Use a low fire glaze....attach the pieces with just a tiny bit of epoxy....to ... | |
| bisque firing with low fire glaze | 5/19/2008 |
| Q: After being part of a clay co-op and taking classes in another city, I decided to jump in and bought ... A: Yes you can do that. It is quite common to do once firing. Just make sure you leave the foot of ... | |
| Breakage in gold firings | 5/18/2008 |
| Q: Recently, I have experienced almost total breakage in my gold firings. My only change in firing is ... A: If you didn't have problems before....and now you do have problems...it is likely that anything that ... | |
| Unmarked Pottery Vase | 5/18/2008 |
| Q: I am looking for some information on a a lovely pottery vase I recently acquired. The vase measures ... A: Without a maker's mark, it is difficult to know the origin and value. All manufacturers use a ... | |
| Need a little help | 5/14/2008 |
| Q: I found this old looks like clay pot it is pretty just don't know if its something worth looking ... A: There is usually a maker's mark under the foot (bottom outside) Clean the foot with a stiff brush ... | |
| Re-Firing plates for glaze fire | 5/11/2008 |
| Q: I fired about 12 plates last night and unloaded the kiln this morning to find dull colored matte ... A: Did the pieces warp or distort in shape at all? That would indicate svere over fire. If not ... | |
| pottery | 5/6/2008 |
| Q: I seem to be having a problem with "s" cracks in the bottom of my pots. Someone said it was the ... A: A common problem. Some believe wedging more will help. Wedging and kneading are of course ... | |
| Name for a type of pot | 5/4/2008 |
| Q: I am looking for the name of a pot which has three handles. I had a very large pot like this in ... A: Interesting question. It made me curious! I just GOOGLED "Three handled pottery" and got 530,000 ... | |
| Shivering | 4/29/2008 |
| Q: I am using a Gare White Satin Finish glaze on my 04 White Earthenware bisque and it is shivering ... A: some glazes just won't work on that clay body apparently....you will have to use a fdifferent clay ... | |
| Glaze Recipe & Burnishing | 4/29/2008 |
| Q: Two questions Looking for high fire 1, black glassy glaze, 2, white glassy glaze, 3, crystaline, ... A: Go to the internet to find glazes recipes. There are thousnads in books and on-line. Unfortunately ... | |
| refire | 4/26/2008 |
| Q: I had a senior moment and fired my greenware to 06 instead of 04. Can I just refire it? Can I fire ... A: Yes, you can refire the load as is...if you want to. only about 75 degrees difference I think. ... | |
| what type of clay for art tile | 4/25/2008 |
| Q: I am trying to learn to make art tile. Someone is making a mold for me of a relief design that I ... A: Cone 10 is about the highest temp clay available at most places. We use cone 13 porcelain here in ... | |
| Custom Tableware | 4/22/2008 |
| Q: I am an MFA printmaking candidate at Indiana University and I am interested in getting a dinnerware ... A: There are many manufacturers of such decal materials and capable of doing that work. Some are in ... | |
| Duncan dipping glaze CN2000D | 4/15/2008 |
| Q: I am using the lead free duncan dipping glaze. I have noticed black specs on my bisque after I dip ... A: If it a glaze that has some speckles in it....then it's ok. If not then just put the glaze through ... | |
| pottery to outside masonary/stucco wall | 4/14/2008 |
| Q: I have several pieces of pottery I wish to attach to the wall of an outside fireplace which is ... A: Mastic.... and then cement type grout to seal the edges might be best. The kind of mastic used to ... | |
| kiln time-cone number? | 4/13/2008 |
| Q: I have a very old paragon kiln. The only temp that works is high. The cone bar is broken so I have ... A: spend a few dollars to have the kiln setter fixed...or replaced... It will help you determine ... | |
| pottery that cracked | 4/7/2008 |
| Q: I just emptied my kiln and I had several pieces that began to crack, then broke at the rims and ... A: sounds like dunting from too rapid cooling....but maybe some other problem with the clay body or ... | |
| Chromium oxides | 4/5/2008 |
| Q: Chromium oxide. I use it quite often as a finish instead of glaze for carved vessels. I like the ... A: Mason stains are very good. They have a wide color range. I would still be cautious with any dusty ... | |
| Chromium oxides | 4/5/2008 |
| Q: Chromium oxide. I use it quite often as a finish instead of glaze for carved vessels. I like the ... A: according to what I have read and heard...you should be cautious with chromium oxide.....wear rubber ... | |
| raw clay?? | 4/4/2008 |
| Q: I found a clay deposit while enjoying the outdoors. i brought some home to see what i could do. when ... A: It's unusual that a raw clay all by itself would be suitable for pot making. It may now be plastic ... | |
| Kiln firing times | 3/30/2008 |
| Q: I have a cress model # B-18-H Kiln with two peephole plugs, 240 AC 23 amps, a top and bottom timer ... A: Melody about 5-6 hours should be enough on high for a bisque to 1830 F. That may vary with the age ... | |
| Glaze Firing Schedule | 3/27/2008 |
| Q: I have my pieces bisque fired. I have low-fire glazes for the pieces. I have looked all over for ... A: Diana, It might be best to contact CRESS on-line and get the manual for firing. It is pages long ... | |
| tacky glue in the kiln | 3/27/2008 |
| Q: HELP! A student of mine put tacky glue on his fired piece because it had a few cracks on it, so he ... A: Well....the glue will burn out and smell bad. It woun't help keep the piece "glued" together during ... | |
| single fire | 3/26/2008 |
| Q: I am an elementary art teacher and in the past did a single firing with greenware and a clear glaze ... A: fire slowly....what does the clay box say about the firing temperature? It will say the firing ... | |
| reglazing pottery | 3/25/2008 |
| Q: I have a pitcher that I love, but the glaze on the bottom of the inside is worn to the point that it ... A: Try coating the underside of the outside bare clay surface with a two part epoxy glue. I think the ... | |
| pottery | 3/25/2008 |
| Q: what is the best way to make a clay hand print that stands out in relief from a clay impression? A: make a half hand (either the palm or back of the hand) mold from plaster of paris and when it is ... | |
| Raku Clay Firing | 3/25/2008 |
| Q: I am a glass artist - I have hand built a "slumping" form from Raku Clay over which I will "slump" ... A: If the clay form is quite thick you should dry it for at least a week...then bisques fire it to 1830 ... | |
| Glaze | 3/24/2008 |
| Q: I wonder if you have ever come upon this problem and if you have I'd appreciate a solution. I have ... A: If it is acting differently this time I would be suspicious that maybe something was left out. ... | |
| Coffee pot..mugs | 3/18/2008 |
| Q: I have an idea for a particular art work that I want used for a range of tableware that I want to ... A: Stoke-on-Trent is the place to go in England I think. Historically there are the most choices ... | |
| Coffee pot..mugs | 3/17/2008 |
| Q: I have an idea for a particular art work that I want used for a range of tableware that I want to ... A: maybe best to start with a local potter to make prototypes. Then you will have an idea of how well ... | |
| clay/glaze compatibility | 3/17/2008 |
| Q: Swenson, We are in the midst of firing close to 200 hand made tiles. Our clay is the red majolica ... A: YES...it is indeed possible. If the clay body is cone 04 and the glaze temp is cone 6 that is a ... | |
| mason stains | 3/16/2008 |
| Q: I recently saw Elizabeth MacDonald's wall tiles in which she pressed powdered stains onto the clay ... A: Don't know her work. I have not tried that, but assume she just dusted or pressed some body stain ... | |
| clay/glaze compatibility | 3/15/2008 |
| Q: Swenson, We are in the midst of firing close to 200 hand made tiles. Our clay is the red majolica ... A: you can re-fire ceramics countless times......heat up slowly and cool slowly for best results. If ... | |
| crazing | 3/15/2008 |
| Q: I would like to purposefully craze an older piece of pottery and give it that tan hue of an aged ... A: heat it in the oven..to about 250-300 F......then quench it in cold water. That might crackle the ... | |
| reglazing | 3/13/2008 |
| Q: How can I get an even coat of glaze using a brush? I find the first coat gets removed when I apply ... A: add a litle karo syrup to you glaze...apply with a brush, let it dry and the second coat should go ... | |
| changing or adding art | 3/13/2008 |
| Q: I have a large quantity of dolomite decorative mugs that have 2007 painted and fired on them. Is ... A: I guess maybe 20 %. Heat and cool slowly....they will be subject to heat shock in heating up AND in ... | |
| changing or adding art | 3/12/2008 |
| Q: I have a large quantity of dolomite decorative mugs that have 2007 painted and fired on them. Is ... A: You might just use some darker glaze and paint the 7 over to make it an 8.? Refire to a similar ... | |
| re-glaze due to becoming porous | 3/12/2008 |
| Q: I have a water storage jug that has become porous. Is there any way of re-sealing or such that I can ... A: 'Thompson's water seal' will probaly work but I don't know how it might affect the taste of water ... | |
| can I paint a "fired clay elf" ? | 3/8/2008 |
| Q: I purchased an 18inch tall "fired clay" elf, made in Vietnam, from a bargain outlet. He's all one ... A: Yes you can. The kind of paint you use will determine how long the paint stays on the clay. Epoxy ... | |
| firing temperatures | 3/2/2008 |
| Q: i have aquired a pottery craft P50909 top loader with a kiln sitter, but i wish to fuse glass i have ... A: slumping of glass is done in ceramic kilns, ( like s t r e t c h i n g - a coke bottle...or ... | |
| Glazing | 2/29/2008 |
| Q: Can I use regular acrylic paints that I use for painting and fire them under a ceramic clear glaze? ... A: Although I have not tried that....everything I know tells me it would probably NOT work. Maybe some ... | |
| hooking up propane fuel source | 2/29/2008 |
| Q: I am seeking information regarding gas hook-up for my wifes new Pottery Kiln. She ordered her Kiln ... A: If I understand your question correctly, what you need is a reducer. I would call the propane ... | |
| firing clay | 2/28/2008 |
| Q: I am a new teacher at a school with a kiln. I have no experience firing clay. I have gotten the hang ... A: Does the kiln have a cone setter device?....like a Dawson kiln setter? or are you just relying on ... | |
| Cone 5 Glaze | 2/27/2008 |
| Q: After a bisque firing at cone 5, I glazed (using cone 5 glazes) and fired some plates I made in our ... A: Usually bisque fire will be lower temp than glaze firing. Do you find it difficult to get the glaze ... | |
| poisonous glaze dust? | 2/25/2008 |
| Q: My husband teaches high school ceramics, and he just came home sick as anything. He was grinding ... A: Just to be safe, he should go the doctor and have heavy metals testing....Call the doctor first and ... | |
| old glazes | 2/24/2008 |
| Q: can dried up glazes be rehydrated & used ? some are still semi moist while others are pretty dry A: Yes. Re-Mix with water. Easier said than done however. I use a mixer (an old Waring high speed ... | |
| High fire clay/ midrange glaze | 2/22/2008 |
| Q: I will be firing stoneware clay to maturation at cone 7. At this time I only have midrange glazes ... A: Yes that can work nicely....many dinnerwares are fired that way....it's done all the time. It may ... | |
| Iron Oxide | 2/22/2008 |
| Q: I am relatively new to this, some left over memories from high school are standing me in good stead. ... A: Having some problems with connections from China right now....I hope this gets to you.... The color ... | |
| Old dinnerware markings | 2/20/2008 |
| Q: Ric - I know this isn't really your area, but I hope you can steer me in the right direction. I ... A: I have seen old repairs done with wire...that looks like staples...I believe they drilled small ... | |
| plaster mold | 2/18/2008 |
| Q: I made a plaster of paris mold in a bowl that I first put liquid soap in, but it is stuck..any tips ... A: Well....if the bowl is already broken....just carefully bust the plaster free and trim any crack ... | |
| Need to know how to work kiln | 2/17/2008 |
| Q: I was left an amaco excel select fire kiln with no manual. The kiln is in great shape and was ... A: AMACO...American Art Clay Company has a website...where I am quite sure you can get the manual.... ... | |
| Cone 06 Glaze Firing | 2/15/2008 |
| Q: I am using cone 06 white earthenware as my clay body, I have bisqued it to cone 04 and now I am ... A: Well...you should use pyrometric cones to measure temperature in the kiln.....There is usually a ... | |
| Bennington Pottery 45 piece set | 2/10/2008 |
| Q: I just recently purchased some Bennington pottery dishes and accessories from an estate sale where I ... A: This is called Classic Bennington....designed in 1960s by Uskai Ieda a Japanese designer that David ... | |
| broken plaster mold | 2/10/2008 |
| Q: I have a broken mold (of a sculpture) that means a lot to me and would like to repair it. What can I ... A: Try epoxy glue....'Devcon 5 minute epoxy' or the like....but use as little as possible....just in ... | |
| making ornaments on a slab roller | 2/9/2008 |
| Q: I am self taught in ceramics, 10 yrs., using molds firing .02 bisque and .06 commercial glazes. I ... A: I did try to answer this question...it apparently failed to go through to you. Sorry if it didn't ... | |
| Ceramic clay dust hazards | 2/8/2008 |
| Q: What are the hazards from "clay clouds" in the Middle School art class? My daughter needs to do a ... A: The main danger is to the teacher who breaths this stuff for years. Of course students don't need ... | |
| Decorating Greenware | 2/7/2008 |
| Q: I painted Vinegar onto a Dry Earthenware Paper Clay bowl and it produced a volcanic effect, however, ... A: It could be the timing. Choosing the right time in the drying of the clay to apply the vinegar can ... | |
| can you paint over a glazed ceramic pot? | 2/6/2008 |
| Q: At a pottery sale I bought some ceramic saucers but they have a shiny, green finish on the outside. ... A: You can do so, yes. Paint won't last forever over a glaze. A latex paint will NOT work well. Use ... | |
| potters paper | 2/5/2008 |
| Q: I am looking for a paper that was/is called potters paper-maybe slip paper. It is a tissue type and ... A: If I understand your question ...you are looking for ceramic transfers....decals? Heinrich Decal in ... | |
| glaze | 2/5/2008 |
| Q: I have some cone 10 procelain clay items that I have bisque fired at cone 6. Can I glaze and fire ... A: yes and no... Yes you can fire them to cone 6. No problem.... except that there may be some ... | |
| using tempera paint on bisque | 1/31/2008 |
| Q: after i bisque fire my student's pottery, can we use regular tempera paint, or tempera cakes ... A: tempra paints won't work in a kiln. It will burn out and probably glaze won't stick to it anyway. ... | |
| Barium Carbonate | 1/29/2008 |
| Q: Is it or is it NOT safe to use. I fire cone 9 reduction is is safe to put on my pots where food ... A: Opinions vary on the exact amount of toxicity involved cause no one has done a BIG study...yet. Err ... | |
| antique bowl or large charger | 1/28/2008 |
| Q: I'm trying to date an antique bowl.It has ash marks on the back (I've sold 18th century Japanese ... A: My best advice is to go to a local antique dealer and ask to look through their POTTERS MARKS texts. ... | |
| bisque fire | 1/25/2008 |
| Q: I am using a stoneware clay from JingDeZhen. A lot of grey smoke develops during bisque firing at ... A: organics sometimes burn out at higher temperatures than we imagine. Acrid smell is sulfurous ... | |
| Porcelain glazes/paint | 1/22/2008 |
| Q: I just fired some old doll porcelain to cone 6. Can I paint them with some type of porcelain paint ... A: You can use acrylic or even oil paints....but it will not be nearly as durable as fired glaze would ... | |
| Used kiln | 1/21/2008 |
| Q: I am considering a used kiln. It is a Cress fx23F. 240 v. I am not sure of the cubic feet but it is ... A: buyer beware. I wouldn't do it....but I can't see the kiln and judge it well from Seldovia, Alaska ... | |
| firing | 1/21/2008 |
| Q: I fire my bisque on which I have applied underglaze and glaze to cone 06. I want to start ... A: If the clay can be fired to higher temperatures that's ok. BUT if it is formulated to be vitreous ... | |
| Help, Ceramic Molds and Kiln Operation | 1/21/2008 |
| Q: I was given a ceramic business, the owner passed away approx. ten years ago and everything has been ... A: You need to find someone nearby with experience. Too much to learn from me in a few e-mails. Go ... | |
| ceramic molds | 1/21/2008 |
| Q: Can ceramic molds be placed in a kiln with temperatures up to 1500F? If not, what will happen to ... A: I think it might work....but I don't know for sure how many times you can do it with a ... | |
| ceramic molds | 1/18/2008 |
| Q: Can ceramic molds be placed in a kiln with temperatures up to 1500F? If not, what will happen to ... A: Plaster when heated to that temperature will revert to LUDO (LUTO) and if you then grind it to a ... | |
| Testing retro ceramic mugs | 1/17/2008 |
| Q: I have two treasured mugs I got from eBay. They are from another decade and won't tip over due to ... A: I believe you can buy lead test kits at Lowes/Home Depot. You can leach any lead out by filling the ... | |
| Clay Masks | 1/16/2008 |
| Q: My Daughter sent me two clay masks from Peru, about face size. They have been broken in transit. ... A: Use five minute epoxy. Mix the two parts...apply CAREFULLY a little epoxy near the back side of the ... | |
| firing | 1/15/2008 |
| Q: I recenty had a test question about firing different materials and wasnt sure if i answered it ... A: The raw clay, dried clay gets 'bisque' fired at about 1860 F. That goes for most clay ... | |
| high fire clay body / low fire glaze | 1/13/2008 |
| Q: I have been slip casting porcelain footed platters, and firing underglaze and glaze to cone 5/6. ... A: Support with kanthal pins supports while firing might solve the problem. You can buy them at ... | |
| stoneware cone 6 to 10 | 1/12/2008 |
| Q: I am doing small sculptures using a stoneware clay that is cone 6 to cone 10. It will be fired in ... A: Bob, Yes. but...Electric fire won't give you a very dark color in the bisque. Gas reduction fire ... | |
| decals that can be fired | 1/8/2008 |
| Q: I am a high school art teacher. Our art club does a ceramic bowl auction to raise money for ... A: There is a process that uses special inks and is doable with a printer. Unfortuately I do not know ... | |
| clay percentage in delved clay | 1/8/2008 |
| Q: How do I determine the clay % in delved clay ANSWER: I don't understand your question. What is ... A: The only way I know to find the exact numbers of elements and minerals in a surface clay would be to ... | |
| Renewing Old Stoneware | 1/1/2008 |
| Q: I've been reading articles about a few designers that have been renewing old dinnerware. I have a ... A: If you are careful it can be done. You can use china paints and handpaint a design and then re-fire ... | |
| kiln firing | 12/16/2007 |
| Q: I have an old Gare kiln that my husband re-wired years ago and it's always worked fine. A switch ... A: Cones should bend....not crack. Could be old cones that have lost their ability to function? Do ... | |
| Identifying a vase | 12/16/2007 |
| Q: I have a large vase that I am trying to identify. It says made in mexico on the bottom but has a ... A: I suggest you take it to a local antiques dealer....they usually have books that can help you look ... | |
| how do i | 12/15/2007 |
| Q: My glazed clay mug has a leak.Is there a safe way to still have food/beverage in it? A: If you know what temp. it was fired to originally you can reglaze the inside with a safe glaze and ... | |
| bennington pottery fish plate | 12/9/2007 |
| Q: I am trying to ID a Fish plate/platter made by Bennington Potters. It is cobalt blue in color, in ... A: I was the plant manager there from 1982-95....That sounds like a piece from the 1950-60s...David Gil ... | |
| clay for a glass kiln? | 12/9/2007 |
| Q: ..) and recently came into a glass kiln. I'd like very much to try some pottery because- well- why ... A: glass is mostly silica based and ceramic glazes are alumina-silica based....so flux temps will ... | |
| glaz firing | 12/8/2007 |
| Q: This is my first time firing glaze and I did 2hr. low, 2hr. med. and 1hr high. But when I took out ... A: yes...leave it loaded and re-fire...it obviously did not reach temperature. Heat work is a ... | |
| mexican clay figure | 12/7/2007 |
| Q: I have a question about repairing two figures made from Mexican clay. The figures in question were ... A: just do not do anything that cannot be reversed...use elmer's at first and if that works...okay.... ... | |
| re: purposely getting cracked pottery | 12/6/2007 |
| Q: I am making a casting out of concrete. Its a small sculpture. I want to get the effect on it like ... A: they will be surface cracks...when the liquid sodium silicate dries it shrinks and pulls the surface ... | |
| manganese in clay | 12/6/2007 |
| Q: After seeing a comment you wrote about black glaze containing manganese I am now concerned with a ... A: probably the brown flecks are granular illmenite. Not to worry. That's not as toxic as manganese at ... | |
| glazing over fired bisqued ware | 11/21/2007 |
| Q: I accidentally overfired my bisque load and now the pieces are not very porous. I know I can apply a ... A: heat the pieces up....in the kiln on low heat or even in your oven...and dip them in the glaze when ... | |
| glaze firing | 11/19/2007 |
| Q: My classes just glazes their bisque pots and now I need to fire them. I am using low fire one stroke ... A: Probably just wax burning off....or...maybe a student left a piece of paper in a sculpture? It is ... | |
| using stains to emphasize texture. | 11/18/2007 |
| Q: I am working on some really nice, textured, hand built pieces and I am sick of just using glazes. I ... A: First of all the black stain is MANGANESE not magnesium....big difference...and you do not want to ... | |
| Stoneware from Pottery Barn | 11/11/2007 |
| Q: Purchased a line of stoneware plates, bowls, etc.. from Pottery Barn. But the glazed surface ... A: Some glazes are soft and will mar easily. Best bet might be to get some emery cloth and wet sand ... | |
| matte glaze | 11/9/2007 |
| Q: I have begun making scul,pture using high fire ceramic clay. I need to locate flat non shiny glaze. ... A: Jim, Yes there are just as many matte, semi-gloss,dry looking glazes as there are shiney, bright ... | |
| kiln care | 11/6/2007 |
| Q: i have two electric kilns and have them stored in a shed and would like to set them up on the ... A: Sounds good. Keep electric 18 inches from any wood surface...even if metal clad...heat eventually ... | |
| Using high fire glazes on low fire bisqueware | 11/5/2007 |
| Q: Hey! I have been working with stoneware clay on my wheel, but have purchased a bunch of bisqueware ... A: sorry...glad you know not to fire low temp clays at high temp. Most cone 6 glazes will be very ... | |
| Using high fire glazes on low fire bisqueware | 11/4/2007 |
| Q: Hey! I have been working with stoneware clay on my wheel, but have purchased a bunch of bisqueware ... A: NO it's NOT okay!! Do NOT fire 03 clay to cone 6....it will turn into a melted down terrible mess ... | |
| firing high fire clay at lower temps | 10/25/2007 |
| Q: I have stoneware (cone 6-8) and have been firing it to bisque cone 06, I was given a bunch of low ... A: the glazes will still be food safe. The body will be a bit underfired and the glazes may look ... | |
| highfire time too short? | 10/20/2007 |
| Q: I started my first high firing today, for cone 10. (I bisqued my pieces a few weeks ago which turned ... A: The results will tell you. If the glazes are smooth it's not too fast. I have fired from cold to ... | |
| buying electric kiln | 10/18/2007 |
| Q: I live in the uk and am looking to purchase a new electric kiln, i have a small workshop in my ... A: First, I am from USA, so my knowledge of UK brands is not great. Secondly, I have been in China for ... | |
| hi-[fire stains | 10/16/2007 |
| Q: Are there any stains that will keep their color when fired in reduction to Cone 10? Will it help to ... A: blacks,blues and greens do best at cone ten. other colors are somewhat fugitive. all work best in a ... | |
| How to Fix Shivering Glazes | 10/11/2007 |
| Q: My students' pots just formed shivers. In twenty years of teaching this is the third time it ... A: some glazes shiver off the lips and rims of pieces because the clay shinks more than the glaze in ... | |
| water slide decals | 9/27/2007 |
| Q: No matter how much pressing, rolling and flattening I do on decals that are fined and fused to ... A: contact the manufacturer...they have some liquid that you brush on that can help adhere the decal ... | |
| Shards re-fired | 9/22/2007 |
| Q: Can previously glazed and fired shards be put in new clay , the new clay dried, and the piece ... A: raw clay shrinks as it dries... shards of bisque or glaze fired clay has already shrunk 10-12 ... | |
| help with our kiln | 9/21/2007 |
| Q: I am a senior in high school, we have a new teacher this year and a new kiln. We have tried glaze ... A: It could be the kiln temperature, or it could be the fault of the glaze. Is it a commercially ... | |
| Pottery/Ceramics ??? | 9/19/2007 |
| Q: I am just getting started in Pottery for a hobby and I have to admit I am intrigued but I don't know ... A: there are many basic books. A POTTER'S BOOK by Bernard Leach...PIONEER POTTERY by Michael ... | |
| Hanging platter on tile above stove | 9/17/2007 |
| Q: I would like to know if there is a way to hang a very heavy platter on my tile back splash behind my ... A: you can use a masonry bit to drill a small hole for a screw....drill into the grout between the ... | |
| Raku Kiln/Slip Casting Equipment | 9/7/2007 |
| Q: I am in a very lucky position, but I need some serious guidance. I have the funding available to add ... A: raku is only done in a gas kiln as far as I have seen in 40 years of doing it. (maybe I don't know ... | |
| firing directions | 8/30/2007 |
| Q: I'm new to using my own kiln. I have one I bought from a local school. It works fine but I'm a real ... A: my best advice is to go to the web site of the manufacturer of your kiln for guidance. I think all ... | |
| Kylemore Abbey Pottery | 8/25/2007 |
| Q: I bought an entire set of twelve dinner plates, salad plates, bowls and mugs from Kylemore Abbey in ... A: Wow...that is a problem. Nothing I know of can make them dishwasher safe. Dishwasher soap is very ... | |
| High Pressure Regulator for Propane Raku Kiln? | 8/24/2007 |
| Q: I recently got the Easy Fire Raku Kiln from Ceramic Services,in it's Instructions it says that one ... A: so with a small tank...you should make sure you have enough pressure and volume to complete a ... | |
| High Pressure Regulator for Propane Raku Kiln? | 8/19/2007 |
| Q: I recently got the Easy Fire Raku Kiln from Ceramic Services,in it's Instructions it says that one ... A: for safety, I would go with the high pressure regulator. There are some variables....ie., what is ... | |
| chalky glaze | 8/17/2007 |
| Q: I am new at firing and am having a problem with my glaze. I ordered some matt glazes that fire at ... A: Sounds like the glaze is missing some flux... ...or maybe you are not mixing the glaze up enough. ... | |
| Broken Ceramic lamp | 8/11/2007 |
| Q: My son broke a Indian ceramic lamp. The exterior is not glazed it is more like stucco, lumpy so you ... A: Use a two part five minute epoxy. Devcon makes a good one. You can get it at any hardware store. ... | |
| kilns natural gas to propane | 8/11/2007 |
| Q: I am thinking of purchasing a gas kiln. The kiln i looked at is set up for natural gas can i fire ... A: The size of the holes in the burners (orifices) makes the difference. If you try to fire a natural ... | |
| THROWING ON A MOLD | 8/11/2007 |
| Q: I've been potting for years. Handbuilding as well as throwing and feel real stupid about something ... A: well...you learned the first rule of clay....'clay shrinks when it dries.' It is always a challenge ... | |
| how to operate kiln properly | 8/10/2007 |
| Q: I have a Vulcan LT3, very old kiln with 5 switches on the side. My ex husband did the firing of ... A: You can look online for Vucan and they will send you the instruction book. Google Vulcan Kilns. ... | |
| oaxacan pottery | 8/5/2007 |
| Q: I have a piece of pottery that appears to be quite old. It is mostly black with engraved lines. It ... A: I suggest you 'google' the words 'oaxacan pottery' (whistle or flute?) Another suggestion is to ... | |
| virginia red clay | 8/4/2007 |
| Q: My question. can the red clay of virginia be used in molds and if so how? A: Most clays can be used for slip casting. You will need to screen it and then treat it with ... | |
| alter the glaze? | 7/19/2007 |
| Q: I have many jars of glaze from my past endeavors, which mature at cone 06. Now, years into another ... A: sorry for the delay...I am travelling...in China...Beijing now...Mongolia next week.. To try to ... | |
| harvesting clay | 7/15/2007 |
| Q: I live in Nevada and have been harvesting clay in my area. I clean it and run it through a screen to ... A: yes, test fire at low temp test for absorbtion of water. If it absorbs more than 10 percent water ( ... | |
| Using a raku glaze in electric kiln | 7/15/2007 |
| Q: I have a raku glaze that I'm not thrilled about. I was wondering if I could use it in my electic ... A: What is the firing temp according to Laguna? as you know....cone 05 is higher than 06...by only ... | |
| Pottery | 7/15/2007 |
| Q: I bought an electric kiln along with pounds and pounds of clay. Some cone 8 some cone 10. Kiln ... A: bisque at cone 06 (1831 F. or 1,000 C.) Cones are a must....or a thermocouple to measure temp. you ... | |
| kiln use | 7/9/2007 |
| Q: I have a used pottery Inc kiln. It has two temp knobs with low med and high. It also has a guardsman ... A: Try....low temp overnight with the lid open.....s l o w start up to drive off water...called 'water ... | |
| pitting | 7/5/2007 |
| Q: Ric, I bought a very old pagon jewelery kiln. Finally have got temperatures figured out (with ... A: Possibly you need to fire just a bit hotter...or soak the kiln at high temp. for 10-15 minutes at ... | |
| Procelain Fuguraine Angels | 6/18/2007 |
| Q: Please Help!!!!!? I bought 2 porecelain angels. One blue and one pink. They look really old. On the ... A: You can try GOOGLE to find infomation.... or go to a reputable antique dealer. They usually have a ... | |
| Cone 06 | 6/14/2007 |
| Q: I was wondering approx. how long it takes to fire up to Cone 06,the total hours? This would be in a ... A: Again, depends on temp....cone 6? cone 10? 6 ( 2200 F. ) should happen about 2-3 hours after cone ... | |
| Cone 06 | 6/14/2007 |
| Q: I was wondering approx. how long it takes to fire up to Cone 06,the total hours? This would be in a ... A: If your kiln setter doen't always work...make sure the rod is straight and the mechanism is ... | |
| Cone 06 | 6/13/2007 |
| Q: I was wondering approx. how long it takes to fire up to Cone 06,the total hours? This would be in a ... A: This would depend on several things: The age and condition of the kiln, is it wired correctly? The ... | |
| clay | 6/9/2007 |
| Q: When I was in school my art teacher would send me home a 25 lb sack of clay and I would come back ... A: to be safe, fire al of it at low temp.... cone 06 or lower.... 1800F range.... otherwise....make ... | |
| s cracks | 6/8/2007 |
| Q: What causes s cracks? They seem to be happening more often in large wheel thrown bowls half way ... A: lack of compressing the clay enough. When throwing make sure the bottom if well compressed and is ... | |
| refiring Raku | 5/30/2007 |
| Q: We had a Raku firing but with poor results ... can I reglaze with non-raku low fire glaze and fire ... A: You can try it, but don't fire to a temperature higher than the Raku glaze can stand...or you will ... | |
| cobalt raku glaze recipe | 5/15/2007 |
| Q: I have purchased a base raku glaze (of which the supplier would not give me the recipe)..then added ... A: Sounds like you did everthing right. Pinholes could be from dust on the piece before glazing. ... | |
| bell jar? | 5/14/2007 |
| Q: Found a jar about 2' high with a lid, beige in color, glazed inside and out and is in perfect ... A: It may have some value. Ask a local antiques dealer to do an appraisal. There are some books ... | |
| coloring the pottery | 5/7/2007 |
| Q: I recently purchased a pottery made out of clay/light reddish with sort of white dual color on top ... A: If it is glazes (shiney) there is little you can do except re-glaze it and refire it again in a kiln ... | |
| Custom tableware | 5/6/2007 |
| Q: I am an architect and designer and am interested in having a small run of custom ceramic dinnerware ... A: If you want, I can pass your e-mail address along to Noel O'Connell here in JingDeZhen, China. He ... | |
| glaze firings gone BAD.. . | 5/3/2007 |
| Q: I've recently begun working with low & mid fire (04 & 4) clays and glazes. I'm having a problem ... A: Ugh. Hard to say exactly, but I suspect out -gassing of organics from the clay body. Refire and ... | |
| firing question | 4/29/2007 |
| Q: I used a high fire glaze on my piece and accidentally did a low firing. can i fix this? i worked for ... A: As long as the clay you made it out of will fire to the higher temperature there should be no ... | |
| using "cookies" | 4/27/2007 |
| Q: I just had a 06 stoneware bisqued high fire glazed pot stick to a high fire "cookie" (cookie disc ... A: Not sure I understand but...if there was any glaze between the two pieces, even if you waxed both of ... | |
| Slip Glaze | 4/23/2007 |
| Q: I want to glaze some pots I threw with a fine drawn pattern. I was told slip glazing could be used. ... A: You can use a slip tracer to draw with liquid clay slip. You can color the clay slip with colorants ... | |
| Paul St. Gaudens pottery 1923 | 4/17/2007 |
| Q: I've recently purchased a beautiful vase signed by Paul St. Gaudens... nephew of The very famous ... A: sorry, it's not in my information bank. Best that you go to an antique dealer that can establish a ... | |
| firing porcelain & stoneware & wax | 4/14/2007 |
| Q: When firing porcelain and stoneware to cone 6 as required, is it then foodsafe or do I need to ... A: Unglazed ware will be foodsafe, but hard to clean. Glazing with a leadless glaze will make the ware ... | |
| Kiln firing | 4/3/2007 |
| Q: I need to fire some greenware to 06 bisque ... Can I also fire some glazed bisque to 06 in the kiln ... A: In a word....YES Should be no problem at all. As you said....put them on different ... | |
| pottery | 4/1/2007 |
| Q: What English company uses a traingle with L/B in the symbol? What US company uses SP 3 for their ... A: Unfortunately I'm in China and my book of trademarks is in Atlanta. Try web site Potter's marks ... | |
| Pottery design | 3/27/2007 |
| Q: I am looking at starting a company that makes custom order dinnerware…I need the ability to create ... A: Are you thinking of ceramic decals? Heinrich Ceramic Decal in Wooster Massachusetts can help you. I ... | |
| Raku glaze | 3/22/2007 |
| Q: Can I use any of the regular high fire glazes on raku clay bisque or must I use a "raku" glaze. In ... A: No, you cannot use high fire glazes to do RAKU effects. Low fire glazes (temp ranges of 1500 to 1900 ... | |
| Using colored underglazes on stoneware | 3/18/2007 |
| Q: I used stoneware clay with my students to create effigy slab mugs. My students would like to accent ... A: Probably most colors will work...a few might burn out at the higher temp. but if you can test fire ... | |
| ceramic paints - expiration question | 3/17/2007 |
| Q: mostly the poured kind I think you call it slip. Anyway, she has since passed and I am left with a ... A: They might have dried out, but if you add a little water and stir them well (which might take a bit ... | |
| Pottery mark | 3/5/2007 |
| Q: I am trying to identify which pottery made a dinner service that was purchased for my great aunt as ... A: Julie, Not a mark I recognize personally, but I can maybe tell you where to look for the answer. ... | |
| Kilning | 3/5/2007 |
| Q: Can you kiln clay in a regular oven? And if you can, how hot does it have to be? Reply A.S.A.P! A: Sorry, No you can't fire glazes in any kind of kitchen oven....even on 'self clean' it would only ... | |
| Specialty glaze | 2/22/2007 |
| Q: .. I have been a frequent customer at a paint-your-own-pottery establishment. I recently did a ... A: Yes, critical that the glaze be VERY well mixed and at a consisancy that avoids showing brush ... | |
| Firing | 2/19/2007 |
| Q: I have been having problems with my pottery. I fired high fire clay at 04, and it came out good. ... A: Are you using pyrometric cones to measure the temperature inside the kiln? If you are not using ... | |
| glaze craters | 2/8/2007 |
| Q: My students and I are working with mid-range (cone 5-6) stoneware and commercial (laguna and ... A: The thickness of the glaze might be part of the problem. Do some tests to find when the problem ... | |
| pottery glazing | 2/4/2007 |
| Q: I have been doing pottery for less than a year. When I apply the glaze it looks fine. But during ... A: It sounds like the glaze is being slightly over-fired. Glaze will commonly run and often will leave ... | |
| I want to try pottery at home | 12/17/2006 |
| Q: I had volunteered twice at a mental home doing pottery theraphy and it caught on me. I want to try ... A: Maybe go to the local community college and ask the ceramics instructor where you can fire ... | |
| school project | 12/3/2006 |
| Q: My son has a school project. We have made 2 pieces for this. I wanted to find out if and how I can ... A: Pieces made to be fired in an earthenware or stoneware dry must be bone dry before put in a kiln. I ... | |
| Oven burning | 11/18/2006 |
| Q: Is it possible to burn, a small piece of clay in the oven instead of a kiln? A: Not really. A kiln fires at higher temperatures. Even on self clean mode your stove won't reach ... | |
| glaze | 11/6/2006 |
| Q: I need the help of an expert to find out the ingredients of pottery glaze if possible can you reply ... A: Glazes vary widely in the ingredients they contain. The basic ingredients include clay, feldspar of ... | |
| over-fired pottery | 11/2/2006 |
| Q: I have just found out that a few pots I've worked very hard to carve, etc. have been accidentally ... A: Yes, heating up the pieces and then dipping or pouring the glaze on will allow you to get the glaze ... | |
| bubbles in my glaze | 10/31/2006 |
| Q: Ric, I have been having some major issues with my glazing as of late. I have been getting lots of ... A: Sounds like you might be on the right track....raise temp a cone or two and see if the glaze smooths ... | |
| paint clay? | 9/28/2006 |
| Q: what kind of paint should i use on non fired ceramic? what kind is used on fired ceramic? A: not sure why you want to paint non-fired ceramic clay pieces, but acrylic will be best. Non fired ... | |
| using stains | 9/13/2006 |
| Q: I am a beginning potter (hobbist) for 3 years since i retired. i purchased glaze ingredients from ... A: Use some water and a little glycerine...mix with the color....a tiny bit....paint it on a plate or ... | |
| what to use on a sink that's already been glaze fired | 7/26/2006 |
| Q: Ric, Please help. I would like to paint an image in a kitchen sink that has already been clear ... A: Haven't tried this before...but my 40 years experience says do it at low temp...heat and cool very ... | |
| Crazing | 7/24/2006 |
| Q: How can I prevent my glazing from crazing? It is driving me insane, not to mention what it is doing ... A: Crazing is a defect and crackle is an effect. Some folks like it. Adjust the amount of silica in ... | |
| osha and kiln ventilation for high school | 5/11/2006 |
| Q: do you happen to know where I can find actual OSHA regulation information (for California) to help ... A: Osha and Cal Osha are different animals. Find a friend, by phone at either and you have it made. ... | |
Ric Swenson
Top Expert on this page
Expertise
For nearly 40 years I have been involved with pottery. I specialize in wheelthrown pottery, but spent 12 years as Plant Manager of Bennington Potters, Inc. where I learned all about RAM pressing, slip casting, jiggering, OSHA regulations regarding clay manufacture, safety, etc. I have specific knowledge in forming techniques, texturing clay, clay bodies, glazes and application techniques, as well as firing and kiln building. I do not have knowledge of the values of ceramic works of the past.
Experience
I have taught ceramics and art history at the high school and college level in Anchorage, AK (UAA) and Bennington, VT.for 12 years. I ran Bennington Potters, Inc. for 12 years 1982-94. I was manager of Fine Art Tile Co.,San Antonio, TX for several years and taught Pottery classes in Atlanta, GA. at Elements (Kickwheel Pottery Supply), Currently in JingDeZhen , P.R. China, teaching Ceramics and Oral English.
Organizations
American Ceramic Society (Chair of Design Div. 1985-7)
Current member of Tucker Arts Guild, Tucker, GA.
Publications
CERAMICS MONTHLY, AMERICAN CRAFT, CERAMIC VISION, (China)
Education/Credentials
BFA, Drawing and Painting, Pacific Lutheran Univ., Tacoma, WA. 1970 with certification to teach Art K-12.
MFA, Ceramics, University of Puget Sound, Tacoma, WA. 1976
Awards and Honors
One Man Show of Pottery, Anchorage Historical and Fine Arts Museum.
Alaska Art Bank Collection, Collection U. of Puget Sound, JingDeZhen Ceramics Institute, China.
Over 70 juried entries in State and Regional art shows over 30 years. Solo exhibition, 2006, The Pottery Workshop, JingDeZhen, China. Exhibitor and Conference participant, Wu Yi Shan Univ. China 2007. Exhibitor at Jingdezhen Ceramic Fairs 2007-2009. Collection of the City of Jingdezhen Ceramic Museum.
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