Why is Pottery Not Glazed on the Bottom? Explained

 Pottery is one of the oldest and most popular art forms in the world. From ancient times to modern-day, people have used pottery to create beautiful and functional objects. But have you ever noticed that most pottery is not glazed on the bottom? Have you ever wondered why? In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this common practice.

Pottery is made by shaping clay into various forms and then firing it in a kiln. Glazing is the process of applying a thin layer of glass to the surface of the pottery. The glaze not only adds beauty and color to the pottery but also makes it more durable and resistant to moisture.

However, pottery makers do not usually glaze the bottom of their pieces. Here are some reasons why:

    Prevents Sticking to the Kiln Shelf

When pottery is fired in a kiln, it needs to be placed on a shelf. If the bottom of the pottery is glazed, it can stick to the shelf during firing, causing damage to both the pottery and the shelf. Leaving the bottom unglazed allows the pottery to be removed smoothly on the shelf.

Here is a video showing what happens when the glaze runs to the bottom of the piece.

    Aesthetics

Pottery makers often leave the bottom unglazed for aesthetic reasons. The natural, unglazed surface of the pottery provides a beautiful contrast to the glazed surface and adds an organic, handmade feel to the piece.

In conclusion, the bottom of pottery is typically left unglazed for practical and aesthetic reasons. The rougher surface prevents sticking to the kiln shelf. Additionally, leaving the bottom unglazed adds to the beauty and organic feel of the piece. So, the next time you admire a piece of pottery, take a moment to appreciate the unglazed bottom and the thought and care that went into its creation.

The Art of Press Molding: Techniques, Tools, and Tips

 Press molding is a pottery-making technique that involves pressing clay into a mold to create a variety of forms, such as plates, bowls, and platters. While it may not have the same level of precision as wheel throwing, press molding allows for a high level of consistency and is a popular technique for potters of all skill levels. In this guide, we'll explore the world of press molding and offer tips and tricks for mastering the technique.

 

 What is Press Molding?
Press molding involves using a mold to shape clay into a specific form. The mold can be made of various porous materials, such as plaster or wood, and can be reused multiple times. Once the mold is prepared, the potter presses the clay into the mold, removes any excess clay, and then releases the molded form.You can buy a ready made mold or even build your own.

Tools Needed for Press Molding:
To get started with press molding, you'll need a few basic tools, including a mold, clay, and a rolling pin. You may also want to invest in a few specialty tools, such as a scraper or a trimming tool, to enhance your technique. Additionally, having a table that is flat and level is important for successful press molding.

Basic Pottery Tools

 

 Techniques for Press Molding:
The first step in press molding is to prepare your clay. Start by making a slab with an even thickness, then place the clay over the mold and press it into the shape of the mold. Be sure to remove any excess clay and smooth out any imperfections. Once the clay has been molded, it can be trimmed, decorated, and fired just like any other pottery form.

 

 Tips for Press Molding:
While press molding may seem straightforward, there are some tips and tricks that can help you create high-quality pieces. Here are a few to keep in mind:

    Choose a mold that is the right size and shape for your project.
    Use clay that is soft and pliable, but not too wet or too dry.
    Apply even pressure to the clay to ensure a consistent form.
    Smooth out any imperfections before firing.

Conclusion:
Press molding is a versatile and accessible pottery-making technique that can be learned by anyone with an interest in ceramics. With the right tools, techniques, and tips, you can create a variety of beautiful and functional objects. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced potter, press molding offers endless possibilities for creativity and expression.

Getting Creative with Wheel Throwing: A Guide to Making Unique and Personalized Pottery

 Wheel throwing is a classic pottery-making technique that has been around for centuries. With its satisfying rhythm and endless possibilities, it's no wonder that wheel throwing has become a beloved art form for many. In this guide, we'll take a deep dive into the world of wheel throwing, from basic techniques to advanced tips and tricks.

 

Tools Needed for Wheel Throwing:
To get started with wheel throwing, you'll need a few basic tools, including a pottery wheel, clay, water, and a variety of shaping tools. Some popular tools include a sponge, a rib, and a trimming tool. You may also want to invest in a few specialty tools, such as a throwing stick or a chamois cloth, to enhance your technique. You can also turn common objects into pottery tools, or even build your own tools.

 

Pottery tool kit

 

Techniques for Wheel Throwing:
The first step in wheel throwing is to prepare your clay. Start by centering the clay on the wheel, which involves applying pressure to the clay to make it symmetrical. From there, you can begin shaping the clay into your desired form. Common techniques include pulling up the clay to create walls, trimming the edges for a clean finish, and adding handles or other embellishments.

 

Tips for Wheel Throwing:
While wheel throwing can be a rewarding and relaxing experience, it can also be frustrating at times. Here are some tips to help you master the art of wheel throwing:

    Start with a small amount of clay to avoid overwhelming yourself.
    Keep your hands wet to prevent the clay from sticking.
    Use your body, not just your hands, to control the wheel.
    Practice, practice, practice!


Wheel throwing is a versatile and enjoyable pottery-making technique that can be learned by anyone with an interest in ceramics. With the right tools, techniques, and tips, you can create a variety of beautiful and functional objects. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced potter, there's always something new to learn about the art of wheel throwing.

Wheel Thrown Utensil Holder

Slab Building: A Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Handmade Ceramic Pieces

 

Slab building is a popular hand-building technique in ceramics that allows you to create sturdy pieces of pottery. Whether you're looking to make plates, bowls, or any other functional or decorative pieces, slab building is a versatile and easy method to get started with.

To start with slab building, you'll need to have your clay ready. This involves wedging it to remove any air pockets and make it ready to work with. Then, you'll need to roll out the clay into flat, even slabs using a rolling pin or slab roller. You can also do it without any tools except your work table. The thickness of your slabs will depend on the desired size and shape of your piece.

 

Once you have your slabs ready, you can begin shaping them into the desired form. You can cut the slabs into various shapes using a pottery cutter or a knife, or even your hands. You can also use slabs to form the sides of your piece by draping them over a mold or using a potter's rib to smooth and shape them.

 

After shaping your slabs into your desired form, it's important to let them dry evenly. This will prevent cracking and ensure a strong and durable final product. You can then fire your piece in a kiln to turn it into a hardened, permanent ceramic piece.

Slab building is a simple and versatile hand-building technique in ceramics that can help you create functional and beautiful pieces of pottery. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned potter, this technique is a great way to unleash your creativity and bring your ideas to life.

Pinch Building: A Guide to Hand-Building a Pinch Pot

 

Pinch building is a traditional hand-building technique in pottery that allows you to shape and mold clay using only your fingers. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned potter, this technique offers versatility and simplicity in creating functional and aesthetically pleasing pieces.

To start with pinch building, it's important to properly prepare your clay by wedging it. This process involves kneading and compressing the clay to remove any air pockets and make it ready to work with. Once your clay is ready, you can begin shaping it by pinching and molding it with your fingers.

To form the base of your piece, start by creating a small ball of clay and then pinch and shape it into a cone, cylinder, or any other desired shape. Then, you can continue building upon your piece by adding additional pieces of clay and pinching and shaping them until your pottery piece is complete.

It's important to keep your clay moist and allow it to dry evenly during the process to prevent cracking and ensure a strong and durable final product.

 

Pinch building is a wonderful technique to explore and bring your creative vision to life. With patience, the right materials and tools, you'll be able to create beautiful pottery pieces that you can be proud of.

Coil Building: A Guide to Hand-Building with Coils in Pottery

 Coil building, one of my favourite creation methods, is a hand-building technique that involves rolling out long, thin ropes of clay and then coiling them together to form a sturdy base for your pottery piece. This technique is simple, versatile, and perfect for beginners and experienced potters alike. In this article, we will explore the basics of coil building and help you create beautiful and functional pieces.

Coil Built Bottle

 

The first step in coil building is to prepare your clay. This can be done by wedging, which involves kneading and compressing the clay to remove any air pockets and ensure it's ready to work with. Once the clay is ready, roll it out into long, thin coils that are uniform in size.

 

Next, you'll begin coiling the clay by placing the first coil on a flat surface and then adding subsequent coils on top, pressing them firmly together to ensure a strong bond. You can continue coiling until the base of your pottery piece is the desired size and thickness.

Once the base is complete, you can use your hands and tools to shape and smooth the surface of the clay. You can also add texture or decorative elements by pressing or carving into the surface.

When working with coils, it's important to keep the pieces moist and to allow them to dry evenly. This will help prevent cracking and ensure a strong and durable final product.

 

Coil building is a simple and effective hand-building technique that is perfect for creating beautiful and functional pottery pieces. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced potter, coil building is a fun and rewarding process that allows you to bring your creative vision to life. With the right tools, materials, and a bit of patience, you'll be able to create stunning pieces that will be treasured for years to come.

Choosing the Right Technique for Molding Your Clay: A Guide for Potters and Ceramists

 

Molding clay is an essential part of the pottery-making process, and choosing the right technique is crucial for getting the desired results. There are several methods for molding clay, including hand-building, wheel-throwing, slip casting, and press molding, to name a few. In this guide, we will explore the different techniques and help you determine the best method for your project.

Hand-building is a versatile and flexible method that can be used to create a wide range of shapes and forms. This technique involves using your hands, tools, and simple molds to shape the clay into the desired form. Hand-building is often used by beginners and is an excellent way to learn the basics of pottery-making.

Wheel-throwing is a more advanced technique that involves using a potter's wheel to shape the clay. This method is best suited for creating symmetrical and uniform pieces and is often used to create bowls, cups, and vases. Wheel-throwing requires a lot of practice and skill, but the results can be stunning.

Slip casting is a method that involves pouring liquid clay, known as slip, into a mold and allowing it to harden into a solid form. This technique is best suited for creating precise and detailed pieces and is often used for mass production.

Press molding is a technique that involves pressing a piece of clay into a mold to create a repeating pattern or design. This method is often used for creating tiles, reliefs, and other decorative elements.

In conclusion, choosing the right technique for molding your clay will depend on the desired outcome, your skill level, and the materials and tools available to you. By exploring the different methods, you'll be able to determine the best technique for your project and create beautiful and well-formed pieces. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced potter or ceramist, molding your clay is a fun and rewarding process that can bring your creative vision to life.

Handbuilt plate with jellyfish