Learn how to master one of the most ancient yet simple and appealing ceramics techniques. Taught with a modern approach by a master potter, this amazing collection of pinched projects is the perfect place to start your new ceramics hobby or to explore new ways to shape clay as a more experienced crafter.
Pinching is a wonderfully direct method of interacting with clay that allows for making a range of forms and styles. Projects are simple and small and require only a few tools and your own hands. Begin a new adventure with fabulous pinched ceramics and learn everything from choosing clay and a style of decoration, to firing and beyond:
- Ranging from functional wares to purely decorative sculptural forms, each project is explained with step-by-step sequences and plenty of options for surface decoration.
- Fully cross-referenced throughout, there is a wealth of choice and styles to mix and match to make each project truly unique.
- A gallery of makers provides added inspiration and shows the potential of this underrated making method.
This book proves that pinching is a way of working equal to all other methods and that it can produce items of refinement and sophistication.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
CHAPTER 1: THE BASICS
Clays
Tools and equipment
Health and safety
Core making techniques
CHAPTER 2: PROJECTS
Cereal bowl
Fruit bowl
Berry bowl with drip tray
Footed dessert bowl
Pouring bowl
Lidded sugar bowl
Nesting plates
Sectional dish for dips
Olive dish
Teapot
Breakfast cup and saucer
Decorating using glaze sponging
Large mug
Small espresso cup
Creamer
Pitcher
Salt and pepper shakers
Condiment bottle
Chicken egg cup
Guinea fowl egg cup
Spoon
Decorating the spoon
Utensil handles
Painting with glaze
Cylinder vase
Decorating using underglaze pencils
Sectional vase
Flower vase
Porcelain tea light
Decorating the tea light
Sculptural form with pears
Decorating using underglaze
Pinecone
Artichoke form
Piggy bank
Decorating using paper resist and slip
Blackbird
CHAPTER 3: DECORATING TECHNIQUES
Slip: making and coloring
Slip: methods of application
Glaze and application
Underglaze and other techniques
"Beautifully and profusely illustrated...an extraordinary and unreservedly recommended DIY instructional guide."-- Midwest Book Review
Jacqui Atkin is a professional studio ceramicist, author, and gallery owner living in rural Shropshire, England. She is currently working as editorial consultant and project editor for ClayCraft magazine. Her previous books include 250 Tips, Techniques and Trade Secrets for Potters, Handbuilt Pottery Techniques Revealed, Pottery Basics, Troubleshooting for Potters, and most recently Pottery You Can Use.