Clay Vocabulary and Techniques

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Across
  1. 3. The first firing of clay to harden it, usually at a lower temperature, preparing it for glazing
  2. 6. A stage in clay drying when the clay is still damp but firm enough to be carved or joined without deformation.
  3. 7. A liquid mixture of clay and water used for joining pieces of clay together or for decoration.
  4. 9. After throwing or hand-building, trim excess clay from the base of your piece once it reaches the leather-hard stage. This creates a clean, finished look.
  5. 10. Use the pottery wheel to throw symmetrical forms. Centering the clay on the wheel is key, and practice is required to master this technique. Keep your hands steady and use water to prevent the clay from drying too quickly.
  6. 12. A liquid suspension of minerals applied to the surface of ceramics to add color and create a smooth, glossy finish after the final firing.
  7. 14. Roll long, snake-like pieces of clay and stack them to build a pot or sculpture. Score and slip the coils as you build to join them securely.
  8. 15. A high-temperature oven used to fire clay, making it durable and permanent.
Down
  1. 1. Always work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling dust from dry clay and glazes.
  2. 2. Before firing, you can add texture or designs by carving, pressing tools into the clay, or applying slip for decoration. After bisque firing, glaze can be applied for color and shine.
  3. 4. Roll out flat slabs of clay to cut shapes and create forms. Slabs can be used for making geometric shapes or more complex structures by joining them together using the score and slip method.
  4. 5. Unfired clay that is fully dry and ready for the first firing.
  5. 7. The technique of scratching the surface of clay to create a rough texture for joining pieces.
  6. 8. This is a simple hand-building technique where you pinch a ball of clay into a bowl or pot shape. This method is great for beginners and allows for creativity in shape and form.
  7. 10. A process of kneading clay to remove air bubbles and ensure even consistency before use.
  8. 11. The technique of shaping clay on a pottery wheel to create symmetrical forms like bowls or vases.
  9. 13. A mixture of clay minerals and other materials that give clay its workability and strength.