Tuesday, 24 March 2009

New ceramics

Got a back log of photos, if I can remember how to post them!!
I have been experimenting with some new porcelain casting slip which came my way. Its a bit easier than making up paperclay and it has a lovely finish. Like everything in the ceramics studio it takes a while to get to grips with its own particular properties. If you leave it too long in the mould it becomes too think but not long enough and its too thin. I have been trying to work towards thin but it has its handling difficulties.
The paperclay was good fun but tends to warp in the second firing even more then the porcelain on its own. I have really enjoyed taking on all this technical information. The recipes for paperclay varied a bit so each batch I made was slightly different. Which meant I never knew what might survive the firing process. I have been very surprised that most things have survived. The last few fabric and slip experiments have pushed it a bit- colapsing when picked up!! The problem has been the slip is too thick so I have to add water. then it can be too thin!!! Its been quite a challenge to get an end result that I'm pleased with.

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