What is Pottery?

Pottery is a material that can be molded into a variety of shapes to make containers (mugs, bowls, and vases). Clay, the basic material for pottery, is plastic when wet & retains the shape imposed upon it. However, when it is fired, chemical changes take place that transform the plastic clay body into a much harder material. This change makes it virtually indestructible & protects it from attack by most materials that corrode metals and organic materials.

The clay used in pottery is made from a raw material called kaolin. It arrives in powder form and is mixed with water in a large tank called a pugmill to form a thick slurry that is about 30% water. This clay slurry is then de-aired – a process that vacuums out the air bubbles in the clay slurry using either a pneumatic machine called a pugmill or manually through a process called wedging. This process also removes any excess moisture from the clay.

Once the clay is shaped into its desired form it’s ready to be fired. This is done in a fuel-fired kiln that has to be kept at very specific temperatures for different types of pottery. For example, celadons turn green only when fired in a kiln that is kept at low, constant temperatures while for red glazes it’s important that the kiln is maintained at well balanced reduction temperatures.

Pottery is one of the most creative activities kids can participate in. Manipulating clay teaches children to focus on the process and how their actions affect the outcome of the project. It can also be an excellent way to work out fears & anxieties. It can be especially therapeutic for children who are dealing with trauma or depression as pottery can help them get back to their natural state of being.