2012 The Year of the Small Business?

After the doom and gloom of 2011, a year when banks, the public sector, big business and especially retailers have suffered, perhaps 2012 is the year for the small man. The year when the public begins to recognise that what they have locally really is worth keeping. And that should include the local butcher, the local tradesman and the local potter.

Yes the local potter!

I was fortunate to meet a number of innovative potters at the 2011 Ceramic Festival in Stoke on Trent, England. Despite the current climate they continue to create innovative designs and concepts.

One such company with years of experience in modelling and design of unique ceramic wares is Sculpta Ceramics. The expertise of individual potters like this should not be underestimated. Designing unique wares for children, and local heritage are all part of the range of products from local man Nathan.

Another local artist Alison Morgan is the creator of Cityscape Ceramics, a unique range of ceramic art. Each piece is inspired by an iconic skyline and features well known and loved landmarks.

During my visit to the festival I even managed to buy a ceramic bottle kiln jar to add to my collection.

So next time you want that special present or gift don't overlook your local potter. They may not be on the high st but many will be only too pleased to show you their wares!

More information on pottery and ceramics can be found at my website http://www.pottersfriend.co.uk Go now to sign up for my free newsletter.

My Favourite Thing -A Hand Lens

Pottery hobby or interest in Minerals or Plants?

Some people just love gadgets particularly the new electronic ones. However here is one that has stood the test of time. Its just a hand lens- a magnifier you might say-but such a valuable piece of hobby kit.

Whether you want to look in detail at that pottery fault, or check there isn't a crack before you fire a piece this hand lens will save you so much time and money. Other interests such as looking at crystal minerals and fossils up close are also catered for.

Perfect Product for the Potter

A hand lens that lets you see the problem.

So often when you are learning to make pottery the results are not as you would expect or wish for. The piece has a small fault., a large speck or change in colour, just where you can see it! Use this neat little hand lens to see what really caused the fault. Make sure that next time that perfect piece you made for a friend really turns out that way. Perfect

In this case it was possible to identify that the colour has crawled back leaving an area without colour.

Lenses or Loupe

The Same Thing!

Whether you are buying a magnifier for your pottery hobby or for studying the detail on jewellery, different names are often used. For example lenses used for looking at jewellery are often called loupe. In real terms they are all a magnifying lens.
However, the quality of lens determines the quality of image. So choose the best you can afford for something you will keep for a lifetime!

More information on pottery and ceramics can be found at my website http://www.pottersfriend.co.uk Go now to sign up for my free newsletter.

How to properly fire your pottery

The firing of pottery goes back over 3000 years. In those days wood fires were the source of energy. However today so many other forms of energy are available including wood, coal, gas, electric, oil, microwave, wind, solar to name just a few.

For the small pottery craft studio or hobbyist however the most common means of firing pottery are by the use of gas or electric kilns. Generally electric firing is a clean means of firing whilst gas is thought to be more energy efficient. Let us consider the basics of each:

How does electric firing work?

The principle of electric firing is relatively simple. Imagine a box or cylinder kiln fitted with heating elements like your domestic oven. However, instead of heating to 300C it is capable of heating to 1300C.

Operation of the kiln starts when electricity is applied to the elements ( resistive load ) causing them to heat rapidly. The heat is transmitted to the pottery mainly by radiation. Special insulating bricks, called refractories, line the floor,walls and roof of the chamber to prevent the heat generated from escaping. An electronic box, called a temperature controller,linked to a thermocouple (special wire) inside the kiln, measures the temperature constantly in the chamber of the kiln and then controls how much electricity is supplied to the elements. This in turn controls the rate of increase or decrease in temperature within the kiln.

How does gas firing work?

The principle of gas firing is also relatively simple.. Imagine this time that the box is kiln fitted with a burner or burners, a little like your domestic gas oven. However, instead of heating to 300C it is capable of heating to 1300C and because of the large amount of gas used the kiln needs a chimney or flue.

Operation of the kiln starts when the gas is turned on and burner lit. The heat is transmitted to the pottery mainly by convection and radiation causing it to heat also. Special insulating bricks, called refractories, line the floor,walls and roof of the chamber to prevent the heat generated from escaping. A vent in the roof or rear of the kiln leading to a chimney allows combustion gases to be removed from the kiln. An electronic box, called a temperature controller,linked to a thermocouple (special wire) inside the kiln, measures the temperature constantly in the chamber of the kiln and then controls how much gas is supplied to the burner. This in turn controls the rate of increase or decrease in temperature within the kiln.

How do I fire the kiln properly?

For both electric and gas firing the two critical factors which affect the success of your firing are peak temperature and uniformity of temperature within the kiln. Peak temperature can easily be measured using the thermocouple fixed inside the kiln. Uniformity could also be measured using a series of such thermocouples located in different sections of the kiln. However this would be an expensive option for smaller kilns.The use of Bullers Rings or pyrometric cones to confirm the consistency and uniformity of firing at different locations within the kiln is more cost effective.These ceramic cones or rings can be placed next to your ware and will experience exactly the same amount of heat as your item. By measuring the values of the rings or cones after each firing you can be assured the firing is consistent from one firing to the next.

But what is the peak temperature?

The peak temperature on firing biscuit or glaze is the maximum temperature reached on firing. This value depends on the type and composition of the clay body and glaze used. As there are literally thousands of body and glaze compositions,suppliers of body and glaze products therefore recommend a peak temperature or ring or cone value equivalent suitable for optimum firing their products. It is advisable to follow their recommendation.

But what if the temperature isn't consistent?

Quite often there is a spread of temperature within the kiln. It is quite common to have a 20 C spread in temperature between the bottom and top of even small kilns. The reason for this is dependent on a number of factors. Rate of firing, kiln design and condition (age and condition of brickwork),element condition and age (for electric kilns) gas/air ratios and flame (for gas kilns) and ventilation aspects of the kiln are all key factors.

For uniform firing of kilns a slower temperature rise to peak temperature and a soak at peak temperature will reduce variation of temperature within the kiln. Indications of non uniform firing of glazed pottery are variation of gloss, colour and or bubble between similar fired pieces.

Summary

Peak temperature and uniformity of temperature are the key factors determining the success of your pottery firing. Peak temperature is measured using a thermocouple connected to the digital display of a temperature controller. Uniformity is measured using Bullers rings or Cones placed in the kiln next to the ware. The heating rate has an affect on both and should be relatively slow for best results. A cycle of more than 12 hours cold to cold is quite common. However you should be guided by the body or glaze supplier as they know the optimum cycles for their products.

More information on firing of pottery and ceramics,including Bullers rings and Orton cones, can be found at my website http://www.pottersfriend.co.uk Go now to sign up for my free newsletter.

Learn all about Raku

Guest author:Freddy Roy


For those who are looking for something a little bit different to give to friends and loved ones as gifts or something incredible to add to their own pottery collections Raku pottery has a great deal to offer. Each piece is completely hand crafted in the Raku style and prepared to very exacting specifications in order to hold the title of Raku pottery. Not only is the method of design exacting but also the firing method and the glazing method must meet very specific requirements for the proper finish. The final product however, is nothing short of spectacular in beauty when this process is properly carried out.

Raku pottery is not for the faint hearted or those who prefer a quick and easy method of crafting pottery. There is very little that could be considered quick or easy about this process and if you are planning to purchase Raku pottery be well advised that you are paying for the process as much as you are paying for the finished product. Of course, the return on that investment is a unique and beautiful addition to your personal pottery collection of the collection of a friend or loved one.

The extreme temperatures that are used in the creation of Raku pottery leave a beautiful finish or glaze on the pottery itself but render it impractical and virtually useless for many of the common uses of traditional pottery. It should also be pointed out that many pieces of Raku pottery, because of the materials used in the paint and glaze are not food safe products and will not hold up well in either microwaves or dishwashers. While many pottery pieces around the world are quite practical to own, Raku pottery is purely decorative and should not be expected for the common uses of other pottery pieces.

If giving this as a gift to one who collects pottery you may want to make a point of mentioning that the piece is Raku and providing any care instructions that may have come along with the pieces you purchased. Most artists do include specific care instructions and cautions for Raku pottery pieces if for nothing else to preserve the beauty and protect the labor of love that went into creating these pieces.

The Raku style of making pottery originated in Japan and has since lit the world afire, almost literally, with its widely held popularity. Though few craftsman have managed to dive into the Raku style whole heartedly, this style still remains in high demand around the world, particularly in the United States where we are seeing a few more artists coming out each year with a few Raku pottery pieces in their collections. Many of these pieces are purchased rather quickly though, despite high prices, continuing the great demand for these pieces.

If you are extremely interested in owning a piece of Raku pottery it is quite possible to add smaller pieces to your collection at a much smaller price than the larger pieces, though these are still much higher than pottery that has been fired using traditional firing methods. The good news is that even at higher prices, it is possible to own some of these stunning pieces of pottery that are works of art in and of themselves even on a more modest working budget. Those who avidly collect Raku pottery exclusively will be the first to tell you that this is a significant investment though very few feel they aren\'t getting their money\'s worth in enjoyment of product. As long as you work to take proper care of these stunning pieces they will provide years of enjoyment for new and old collectors alike.

Raku pottery, like all art, isn't for everyone. But those who love it are typically passionate about their love of this particular style of creating pottery. If you haven't had the pleasure, make a point of checking out any local artists that may have Raku works in their collections.

More information on Raku firing can be found the Potters Friend website
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hobbies-articles/learn-all-about-raku-pottery-1425886.html
About the Author
Learn about growing radishes, montauk daisy and other information at the Gardening Central site.

How to Remove Tea stains from your Ceramic Mugs

It is a common occurrence for mugs used everyday to become badly stained by tea or coffee. The brown stains are unsightly and difficult to remove. Sometimes they become so bad that scrubbing in soapy water does not remove them. Clearly coffee and tea are strong staining agents!

"But what causes the staining?"
It is a combination of hard water, chemicals called tannins, and microscopically rough glaze surfaces. These conditions allow the stains to strongly adhere to the glaze surface. The staining is usually worse in the base of the mug or where there is a sharp corner to hold on to the stain.

"So how do I clean stained mugs?"
Various cleaning methods have been tried and tested including vinegar, bleach, baking soda and washing soda. All have been proven to be successful and are widely used. However Bar Keepers Friend and tooth cleaning powders are less likely to give long lasting damage to the glaze surface. Cleaning with other chemical compounds and scourers whilst successful can create damage to the glaze surface which will make them more susceptible to future staining. So please take special care with your best china or dinnerware and treat them gently for their long term protection.

"So how do I stop staining?"
Manufacturers of the top brands of dinnerware and mugs design their products to resist staining and damage in use. In essence this is done by ensuring the glaze is chemically and physically durable. However,with the widespread manufacture of mugs in many parts of the globe including Asia, it is not easy to know the source and quality of the ceramic mugs we buy.It is almost impossible to assess how resistant mugs will be to staining by visual inspection. Smooth glaze surfaces with few corners will reduce the potential for the stain to adhere strongly to the surface. However, over time the glaze surface may be attacked by dish-washing agents. leading to the dreaded staining.Cleaning the pottery soon after use with warm soapy water will certainly reduce the possibility of staining.

"Summary"

To reduce tea and coffee staining of your mugs, clean them as soon as possible after use in warm soapy water. Use quality mugs from top brands as they will have designed the mugs to be chemically and physically durable. Avoid harsh detergents for cleaning as this can damage the glaze surface and lead to greater staining. Bar Keepers Friend and tooth cleaning powders are preferred cleaners and less likely to create long term damage. If all else fails buy new quality mugs but recycle the old ones. Pottery is a truly 100% recyclable product!

More information and other technical articles on pottery and ceramics can be found at my website http://www.pottersfriend.co.uk Go now to sign up for my free newsletter.

Is Your Pottery Microwave Safe?

Microwave ovens are now a common feature in most kitchens. Their use both to heat and cook food means a wide range of ceramics is being used in microwave ovens. However the question remains….Is all pottery microwave safe?

Technically this question is a little more complex than it appears. There are general rules such as “do not use ceramics decorated with gold, silver or precious metal in microwave ovens”. Indeed ceramic with any metal should not be used in a microwave oven. However additional rules depend on recognising which type of ceramic is being used. For the consumer this is not an easy task.

All ceramics are not the same!

Ceramics are now made all over the world and it is not always easy to establish their source or quality or type. However ceramics that have been fired to a high temperature and are non porous are generally considered to be acceptable for use in microwave ovens. These ceramics include stoneware, porcelain, bone china, and vitreous cookware. Other ceramics which have not been fired to a high temperature have to be used with caution. For these type of product to be used safely there is a need to ensure that they are both dry and have not absorbed water. This can happen in many circumstances particularly during washing or in storage in the fridge. These products need extensive safety instructions to be used safely.

Top brands help the consumer by labelling their products as ‘microwave safe’. Less well known products cannot give this assurance and often do not label at all. So buyer beware and if in doubt do not use in a microwave. Look out for BS or CE standards as a sign of meeting a quality standard.

In summary, most high fired ceramics are suitable for microwave oven use. Lookout for the labelling used by branded products to give reassurance on acceptability for microwave oven use. If in doubt “keep out” is a good motto to remember!

Why not test your pottery knowledge with my quick pottery quiz

More information and other technical articles on pottery and ceramics can be found at my website www.pottersfriend.co.uk

Go now to sign up for my free newsletter.

Top 10 Pottery Making Tips for the Intermediate Potter

Pottery making is a fun but sometimes frustrating hobby. You never know exactly what your results will be when you open that kiln door! Here are my tips to make pottery making that little bit more rewarding......

1. Keep records of everything you do-that way you learn quickly and can repeat your successes and avoid your failures.

2. Label your buckets not your lids- don't learn the hard way that you have just glazed your speciality piece in the wrong glaze!

3. Buy a kiln with a modern controller. Modern controllers are now relatively inexpensive and give you such freedom to control the firing in a way that best suits your product.

4. Keep drying of your product consistent. Drying too quickly is one the most common causes of glaze or clay faults.

5. Learn something about the materials you use. Armed with a little knowledge you can save so much time.e.g. Does glaze go off? What happens to my clay if it freezes?

6. Keep your clay in good condition by covering it with plastic when not in use. That way it retains its plastic condition.

7. Plaster moulds need to be replaced after 40-50 casts. It is false economy in slip casting to continue to use old moulds. These may give inconsistent thickness, pinholed ware and much more besides!

8. Use Orton cones or Bullers rings in your kiln. That way you know your kiln is performing OK and you can spot potential problems such as element failure before they become disastrous.

9. Give some pieces to your loved ones or to charity. The feel good factor will keep you motivated.

10. Continue to share your passion with others. Go to pottery classes and learn something new or join an online pottery group.



Alternatively why not test your pottery knowledge with my quick pottery quiz

More information and other technical articles on pottery and ceramics can be found at my website www.pottersfriend.co.uk

Go now to sign up for my free newsletter.