Ceramic Books

From sugar whites and pastel pinks to toasted browns and deep sea blues, the wide spectrum of colored clay offers an array of possibilities for creative ceramicists. By using the clay itself as the sole means of decoration, potters can achieve effects that range from subtle gradation to dramatic shifts, all integrated into the structure of their creation. Working with colored clay demands a special, disciplined approach, but the rewards are many. Beginning with a brief introduction to historic forms such as encaustic tile, sprigging, and art pottery, Coloring Clay explains the principal techniques for working with colored clay. This detailed, practical handbook takes artists though the clay and stain selection process to forming and firing, outlining proven procedures that produce optimum results. Readers will learn to use coiling and handbuilding for marbled effects, make Wedgwood-style applied reliefs, incorporate swirls and subtle hues into wheel-thrown pieces with mixes and overlays, or apply inlays to slipcast works for modern geometric patterns. Jo Connell also covers loaf and cane forms such as agate, nerikomi, and millefiori, as well as textural effects.

With hundreds of recipes for some of the most popular and enduring high-fire glazes, this reference will prove a boon to ceramists who want to master this complex and versatile aspect of the art. Author John Britt, who served as Clay Coordinator at the respected Penland School of Crafts, has personally tested many of the recipes, and carefully reviews every one. He offers a thorough examination of glaze materials, chemistry, and tools, and presents the basics of mixing, application, and firing procedures. There's a wealth of information on various type of glazes, including copper, iron, shino, salt/soda, crystalline, and more. An exhaustive index of subjects and a separate index of glaze recipes will help ceramists find what they need, quickly and easily. Net Wt. is 1.65 lbs.

In The Complete Potter: Porcelain, Caroline Whyman offers a practical introduction to every aspect of handling and firing this unique clay to produce satisfying results. The author begins with a brief history of porcelain, from its beginnings in China to its place in the pottery industry today. She discusses in detail its properties and the ways in which it can be prepared, stored, and reclaimed. Each chapter covers particular aspects, from basic handling and throwing procedures to the various methods of handbuilding and modeling. Molds and decoration are discussed as well, complete with advice on the suitability and timing of different techniques. Other topics covered include kiln packing and firing, and the coloring, mixing, and application of glazes, slips, lusters, and enamels. Net Wt. is 1.21 lbs.

Provides a brief introduction to this pottery process, discusses ways in which the clay and fire interact, and the color effects that can be achieved, and examines various types of sawdust firing through the work of different potters, who describe their methods. Illustrated with color and b&w photos. Net Wt. is 1.17 lbs.

By John Conrad. Net Wt. is .77 lbs.

By John Conrad. Net Wt. is 1.24 lbs.

This unprecedented survey of the most outstanding ceramics being created today offers a sweeping close-up look at the work of more than 260 artists from more than thirty countries. A special feature of this collection is the range of work from China, almost unknown outside of this country until now. Organized by the distinctive categories of functional ceramics, figurative pieces, and installation works, the book gives a complete picture of the latest developments in each area of contemporary ceramic art. Chapters on materials, firing techniques, ethnic influences in design, and related topics delve into every aspect of ceramics creation that would be of interest to crafters, collectors, and other readers who are drawn to contemporary art. Net Wt. is 2.68 lbs.

Porcelain is prized for its vivid whiteness; but those creating it have been well aware of its quirky qualities. Lane provides a strong history and celebration of porcelain in the last two decades of the 20th century, examining technical achievements and working practices common to cermacists who work with porcelain. Numerous black and white and color photos of porcelain explore its many qualities and artistry. Net Wt. is 2.64 lbs.

Peter Lane provides a strong history and celebration of the development of porcelain at the turn of the new millennium. He gives particular consideration to the technical achievements, working practices, and aesthetic concerns of ceramicists who work with this most popular medium and its close relative, bone china. The international group of artists featured in this book demonstrates the confidence and versatility found in contemporary porcelain, resulting in a breathtaking look at the exciting and innovative work that is currently being done internationally in this field. Net Wt. is 2.95 lbs.

Potters everywhere will welcome "Copper Red Glazes", the ultimate reference for this tricky but stunning glaze. Finally potters can master ancient secrets without expensive and frustrating experimentation. 50 color photos. Net Wt. is 1.54 lbs.