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Working with clay provides a unique blend of intuition and technique, allowing potters to transform raw earth into functional art. Here’s an in-depth look at the pottery-making process, based on both traditional methods and my own personal experiences as a potter.
The pottery process begins with conceptualization. Whether you sketch out ideas or form them intuitively on the wheel, each piece needs a clear direction. Think about the piece’s intended function—will it be a bowl, mug, or decorative item? Shape, size, texture, and glaze color all play into the design process. For me, each design phase feels like the seed of a new creation, a way to imagine how the finished piece will look and feel.
Once the design is in mind, it’s time to bring it to life. This is where hand-building or wheel-throwing comes into play. I experimented with various hand-building techniques at first, but over time, I found my passion in wheel throwing. The energy and rhythm of the wheel allow for spontaneous creativity, yet it also demands precision and focus. As you shape the clay, you’ll start to see your design take form, an exciting moment for any potter.
After shaping, your piece needs to dry to a leather-hard stage. At this point, the clay is partially dry but still flexible enough to carve, attach handles, or add details. Leather-hard clay is also sturdy enough for trimming and smoothing without distorting the overall form. This stage requires patience, as it’s easy to rush, but letting the clay reach the right consistency is crucial for the piece’s durability.
Trimming is where you fine-tune your piece, refining its shape and adding a foot or base if desired. Trimming not only enhances the piece’s appearance but also helps with drying and weight distribution. For me, trimming is a meticulous process that brings each piece closer to its final form, revealing the clean lines and proportions hidden beneath the rough clay surface. Cleaning at this stage is also essential, as any small imperfections can become pronounced after firing.
The piece now needs to dry completely, which can take a day or several days depending on thickness and environmental conditions. At this stage, it becomes “bone dry”—fragile and no longer workable. Ensuring even drying is essential to avoid cracks. Once completely dry, the piece is ready for the kiln.
Glazing is where the magic happens, as it adds color, texture, and protection. I started my pottery journey using underglazes exclusively, hand-painting designs, adding personal touches, and then covering them with a clear glaze for a classic, simple look. However, over time, my approach to glazing evolved. Now, I love experimenting with glaze chemistry, combining colors, and layering effects to create unique finishes. It’s an exciting process, like alchemy in action!
In the first firing, called bisque firing, the clay piece is heated at a relatively low temperature (usually around 1800°F or 980°C). This transforms the clay into a ceramic state, making it durable enough for glazing but still porous enough to absorb the glaze. Opening the kiln after a bisque firing always feels like a small reveal—the piece has officially transitioned from clay to ceramic.
For those who prefer decorating before glazing, underglazes and oxides offer a beautiful way to add depth and detail to pieces before the final glaze coat. This stage allows a lot of creative freedom, as underglazes and oxides respond uniquely to various glaze coats and firing temperatures.
The second firing, or glaze firing, is the stage that brings everything together. Fired at a higher temperature, this step vitrifies the glaze, turning it into a glass-like coating that enhances both the appearance and functionality of the piece. Each glaze firing is an opportunity for surprise, as colors and finishes can change based on temperature, kiln placement, and glaze chemistry. For adventurous potters, a third firing with gold or other luster details is an option, giving an added level of detail and luxury.
If you’re curious about the pottery process, we welcome you to join us at our home studio in Larnaca. Here, you’ll have the chance to experience each stage and bring your unique designs to life. And for those who prefer finished works, our shop offers a selection of handmade pieces crafted with care and a touch of creativity. Whether creating or collecting, pottery is an art that brings joy, discovery, and a connection to the ancient world of handmade beauty.
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