Create cups, mugs, bowls, and more pieces that are perfect for you!
Everyone who owns a beloved mug that has just the right handle, an agreeably deep cereal bowl, or a plate that fits perfectly in the dishwasher knows that once you've found these pieces, you wish you had more of them. In
Making Pottery You Can Use, you'll learn how to create the pieces that will work best for you. Each element of the creative process is explained, including:
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Deciding the function of the item
- Working out proportions and making basic drawings
- Choosing the right clay and tools
- Design decisions, techniques to consider, variations to contemplate
- Picking the best method: throwing, slabbing, or coiling
- Choosing food-safe glazes, and more
Successful teacher, designer, and author Jacqui Atkin explains how to throw and hand-build pieces that are beautiful and practical, from plates, cups, and saucers to casserole dishes, pitchers, and tureens. Get started today and you'll have pieces that marry beauty, form, and function, and are perfect for all of your needs.
About the Author
Jacqui Atkin is a professional studio ceramicist whose work has been exhibited in galleries throughout the UK and is currently in public collections at the University of Wales, Aberystwyth, and the City Museum, Stoke on Trent. She is the author of
Troubleshooting for Potters, Hand built Pottery Techniques Revealed, Pottery Basics, The Tile Artist's Motif Bible and
250 Tips, Techniques, & Trade Secrets for Potters.
Industry Reviews
"Brit author Atkin believes, as should all of us, that "we should never stop challenging ourselves." Her impressive book, with numerous options and variations for every clay technique, will stir up the imaginations of its readers. The hardcover is best for adults who wish to improve the functional pieces they make, no matter whether the method is coil, slab, thrown, or molded. We also recommended it for advanced ceramics students and gifted intermediate-level potters who need help with design decisions. Beautifully photographed examples, step-outs, and finished products will have ceramicists itching to sink their hands into some clay as soon as possible."
-- Arts & Activities, artsandactivities.com "Whether you are aspiring to be a potter, a beginner, or an experienced craftsman, Making Pottery You Can Use is an excellent choice for your reference. Jacqui Atkin's book is a superb example of assembling useful, usable information, profusely illustrated by large, beautiful photographs. She uses very little text; whatever is given is succinct, precise, instructive, and to the point. With many clear step-by-step photos, the instructions are as good as if she were teaching you in person. This is an excellent and practical pottery book."
--Manhattan Book Review, manhattanbookreview.com * Starred Review "Ramp up your pottery skills with this specialized manual, as British ceramics professional and author Atkin offers design techniques to reduce errors in finished pieces. This polished book is a lovely addition to the field of pottery. The projects are attractive and well explained. VERDICT Highly recommended for intermediate students still working through the fine details of pottery making."
--Library Journal "Smart clay advice for beginning potters and sculptors."
--Craft Foxes, craftfoxes.com