The Fundamentals of Ceramics (3-D 2)

What does malleable mean?

• edible

• transparent

• can be shaped by hand

• washable

Clay contains water. How does that affect the clay?

As clay dries, it:

• shrinks

• becomes angry

• grows

What is wedging?

• placing clay between two objects

• eliminating air bubbles

• creating slip

• improving the workability of clay by mixing it together

Why should we thoroughly cover our clay and clay projects?

How do we minimize clay dust when working with the clay?

Why should clay pieces be no thicker than your thumb?

• It will fall apart.

• The clay could contain air pockets and will take longer to dry out prior to firing.

• It's harder to add details.

What is the purpose of scoring and slipping?

• It's part of creating slabs.

• It's a way to create texture.

• So we actually use the slip.

• So the clay parts won't fall apart.

If a sculptural form is hollowed out, what do we include so it doesn't explode when fired in the kiln?

• a small hole

• our initials

• a smiley face

Can you recycle bone dry clay?

• No

• Yes