Ceramics Basics

Wedging

• The process of kneading clay to remove air bubbles and ensure a uniform texture.

• A technique used to shape clay into specific forms.

• A method of drying clay quickly using heat.

• A way to mix different types of clay for better consistency.

Bisque Firing

• The first firing of clay, which makes it hard but still porous.

• A process that glazes the surface of the clay.

• The final firing that vitrifies the clay.

• A method of shaping clay before firing.

Firing

• The process of heating clay in a kiln to harden it.

• A technique used to shape clay by hand.

• The method of mixing clay with water to create a slurry.

• A way to decorate pottery with paint.

Coil

• A type of metal spring used in machinery.

• A long, rope-like piece of clay used to build shapes and forms.

• A circular piece of paper used for decoration.

• A method of weaving fabric together.

Ceramic

• Objects made from clay that are hardened by heat.

• A type of metal used in construction.

• A synthetic material used in electronics.

• A type of glass used for windows.

Slab

• A technique using flat, rolled-out sheets of clay to construct forms.

• A method of glazing pottery using a spray technique.

• A process of firing clay at high temperatures to create ceramics.

• A style of painting that involves layering colors on a flat surface.

Plastic Clay

• Clay that is hard and brittle.

• Clay that is soft, flexible, and easy to mold.

• Clay that is used for making bricks.

• Clay that is only used for sculpting.

Glaze Firing

• The process of applying a colored coating to pottery.

• The first firing that hardens the clay body.

• The second firing that melts the glaze into a glass-like surface.

• The technique of decorating pottery with paint.

Kiln

• A type of clay used in pottery

• A special oven used to fire clay, which means heating it to very high temperatures to make it hard and durable.

• A tool for shaping clay into different forms

• A decorative item used in pottery

Glazeware

• A ceramic piece that has been fired a second time with glaze, making it waterproof and glossy.

• A type of clay used for sculpting.

• A method of painting on ceramics before firing.

• A glaze that is applied to pottery before the first firing.