The Making of Pottery

Pottery is a ceramic material that is created by molding clay using hand or industrial tools. It is then fired in a kiln to convert the clay into a durable finished piece. The firing process also hardens the surface of a pottery item and can make it waterproof and impervious to most substances that would dissolve or damage the clay.

When choosing pottery, it is important to consider the intended use of the item. While it is possible to create decorative pieces that are purely artistic, most pottery items are functional. These include teapots, bowls, mugs and vases.

The first step in the pottery-making process is to remove any excess moisture from the clay. This is called de-airing and can be done either by using a machine attached to the pugmill or manually through the process of wedging. Once the clay is de-aired, it can be molded into a variety of shapes. Items at this stage are known as greenware.

The next step is to fire the clay and glaze. This can be done in a kiln or with a campfire, although today most potters use a kiln that is electric or gas operated. In the firing process, chemical changes transform the clay into a ceramic material. Firing also hardens the surface of a piece and makes it water resistant, although some pottery may still absorb some water in contact with it. The firing process can also cause certain metals, such as lead, to leach into the pottery.