Design
The first step in the creation process is the design of the product. At this stage, I decide on the form and function of the object, and then choose the right clay to use for it.
Preparation of the clay
Before I put the clay on the pottery wheel, I need to prepare it well by wedging. This activity helps to ensure a uniform moisture content (water content) and also helps to remove air trapped within the clay body.
Throwing
Work on the wheel always begins with centring the clay ball on the wheel head. The basic shape of throwing is the cylinder, from which many other shapes can be created.
First drying
Once the shape of the object has been formed, I let it dry until it is leather hard.
Trimming and decorating
At this stage, I cut off the extra clay and then, if that was the plan, decorate the object. I also add my studio stamp on the piece.
Final Drying
The bone dry / greenware stage usually takes from a few days to a month. At this point, the clay loses all the moisture that it possibly can before the firing.
Bisque firing
The bisque firing is the first firing of the clay and takes around 9-10 hours. It transforms clay into an irreversible but porous ceramics. This firing is usually done at a temperature of 900 to 1,000°C (1652-1832°F).
Glazing
The glaze melts and adheres to the piece, protecting, waterproofing and improving the aesthetics of the vessel while giving it life. Each piece must be sanded and dusted before being glazed. Glazes are chosen in accordance with the firing temperature range of the clay and the function of the object.
Glaze firing
The glaze firing, in my case at 1250°C (2282°F), takes about 12 hours. During this time, the objects take their final shape and further changes are not possible.
The second firing increases the strength and durability of the pieces.
Exposure and sale of pottery
The work of a ceramist in a one-person business does not end with the production of the tableware. After the creation comes the time to sell. In my small studio, I take care of everything myself: photographing my ceramics, social media, restocking my online store, contacting customers and shipping orders.
In brief, there is always a lot of work, surprises and also excitement in my ceramic studio.