Tips for Beginning Pottery Makers
Growing numbers of people are trying pottery making as a new hobby. Most beginners find that crafting pottery is often a challenging activity that requires time and practice. There are sure to be failures and surprises waiting behind the kiln doors of new potters.
In the following are a few tips for beginning pottery makers.
Try keeping some notes on tried techniques. This will help in learning the skills and help you to avoid repeating mistakes.
Most supplies for crafting pottery are kept in buckets. Label all buckets. Do not label lids only. Lids are often placed randomly and may cause confusion.
Purchase kiln that has a modern controller for better ability to control the firing process.
Never rush the drying of your pieces. This may cause defaults in the clay or glaze.
Educate yourself about the craft and materials used. This will aid you in the entire process. Knowledge will aid in gaining skill.
Maintain clay condition. Wrap opened clay in wax paper and place in sealed plastic container.
After 50 casts, you should replace molds. Molds often become worn and defective after many uses. They may become inconsistent in thickness or scratched.
Utilize cones or rings in kiln. This will enable you to monitor for problems such as failure
Share your successes. Gift finished pieces of pottery to your family and friends. Their joy is often your motivation.
Share your growing passion for pottery crafting with others. Gain ideas and further skills at pottery classes or online pottery sites.
