Ceramic Books

In this book, Ruthanne Tudball discusses the history of and techniques involved in soda glazing. She includes body and slip recipes, kiln designs, and firing methods specifically developed for soda glazing. She illustrates her text with the work of an international group of artists. Net Wt. is .58 lbs.

Gail Nichols' volume is a welcome compendium of the rather sparse information published to date regarding soda fired clay. And although it is a first, it hits the target nicely. She balances technical information with aesthetic information (in the form of well-shot photographs) so that it will appeal to the soda pyromaniacs as well as the gallery enthusiast. Soda fired clay is a relatively new phenomenon growing out of the tradition of salt glazed ware. However, technically and aesthetically, the two traditions are not twins, nor even siblings. They are more like cousins. Nichols' research on the subject provides a wealth of data from which anyone serious about soda firing clay will benefit.

In Stoneware, Richard Dewar discusses the various considerations that need to be taken into account when working at higher temperatures and shows the myriad techniques and glazes that can be used to achieve excellent results. Including the work of Sandy Brown, Will Levi Marshall, Robin Welch, John Calver, and other internationally known artists, this handbook is the only one available on this increasingly popular subject. Net Wt. is .72 lbs.

By John Conrad. Net Wt. is .56 lbs.

Studio Practices, Techniques and Tips is a collection of articles, suggestions, and questions and answers from the Ceramics Monthly archives. Potters share their knowledge on a full range of topics including designing a studio, making and using tools and equipment, photographing work, marketing and sales, kilns and firing. There are also stories of problem solving, insightful solutions, and the individual stories of challenges and successes. This is a must-have book for any potter or clay artist setting a course for pursuing clay beyond the casual past-time. Net Wt. is 1.11 lbs.

Sumi-e, translated from Japanese as "ink picture," is an ideal vehicle for teaching art to any beginner. This introduction to Sumi-e is organized simply and clearly around its four basic brush strokes. 120 illustrations.

Any potter or ceramic artist should always be looking for ways to think outside the box, and this book is full of ideas for doing just that, with plenty of successful finished pieces showing just how creative you can be with clay. Surface Decoration: Finishing Techniques contains articles that will benefit potters at a variety of skill levels, and will be of particular interest to teachers.

For ceramists of any level, surface design is an essential skill for creating beautiful work. And this comprehensive and invaluable studio reference captures all the popular techniques available for embellishing clay. A wealth of practical information and detailed images lead you through every phase of the process-from the wet and leather-hard stages (faceting, carving, burnishing) through bisque ware (terra sigillata and slip work), to firing (glazing methods) and post-firing (decals, lusters, and raku). Because the procedures shown all require the same basic skill level, readers can dip in at any point. Time-tested recipes are offered in abundance, photos of fired demonstration pieces show the final effect, and top-quality contemporary gallery pictures display the fabulous results. Sidebars throughout offer options for further exploration. Net Wt. is 1.96 lbs.

The Teapot Book provides a useful step-by-step guide through the entire process of building a teapot, including materials, handle and spout placement, and kiln temperatures. The myriad illustrations also provide fodder for artists in need of new inspirations. There is a section devoted to contemporary potters and their galleries of teapots that will appeal to armchair enthusiasts, devoted collectors, and masters of the form. Net Wt. is 2.66 lbs.

Teapots are complex objects steeped in history, world culture and art. For the booming number of collectors, they offer a wonderful study in contrast and variety. For artists, they present irresistible possibilities within the context of design, decoration and scale. As a result, teapots have become objects through which potters, clay sculptors, metal artists, glass artists and others demonstrate the height of their creative and technical abilities. From traditional, functional teapots to an eclectic mix of contemporary designs, more than 140 unique pieces are showcased in dramatic, full-colour photography with descriptive captions. This book will appeal to both artists and collectors. Net Wt. is 1.76 lbs.