Exploring the World of Clay: A Guide to Different Types of Clay
As a ceramist, understanding the characteristics of different types of clay is essential for achieving desired results in your work. In this guide, we'll explore the diverse world of clay and introduce you to some common types used in ceramics.
STONEWARE CLAY: Stoneware clay is prized for its durability and versatility. It can withstand higher temperatures than earthenware clay, resulting in a dense, vitreous surface. Stoneware clay comes in various colors and is commonly used for wheel-thrown pottery, sculpting, and functional ware.
EARTHENWARE CLAY is one of the oldest and most versatile types of clay. It is characterized by its rich, earthy color and relatively low firing temperature. Earthenware clay is porous and often used for making functional pottery such as terracotta planters, tiles, and making tableware more affordable. It has to be glazed all over in order to be suitable for tableware tough.
RAKU CLAY: Raku clay is specifically formulated for the raku firing technique, known for its unpredictable and dramatic results. Raku clay is typically low-fire and is often used for creating decorative pieces such as raku pottery and sculpture.
PORCELAIN CLAY: Porcelain clay is renowned for its fine texture, translucency, and pristine white appearance when fired. It requires high firing temperatures and produces exquisite results prized for its delicate beauty and smooth surface.
TERRA COTTA CLAY: Terra cotta clay is known for its warm, reddish-brown color and rustic appearance. It is fired at low temperatures and is commonly used for architectural elements, garden pottery, and decorative objects.
PAPER CLAY: Paper clay is a unique blend of clay, cellulose fiber, and water. It offers enhanced plasticity, shrinkage reduction, and increased strength compared to traditional clay bodies. Paper clay is versatile and can be fired at various temperatures, making it suitable for handbuilding, sculpting, and mixed media artwork.
CLAYS AT STUDIO ROKA CREATIVE SPACE
At Studio Roka Creative Space, we primarily use stoneware clay in several colors and porcelain for our pottery classes and studio sessions. These clays offer versatility, durability, and a wide range of possibilities for creative exploration. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced ceramist, our selection of clays provides the perfect foundation for bringing your artistic vision to life. Join us at Studio Roka and discover the joy of working with clay in a vibrant and supportive community of fellow artists.
PORCELAIN
is the diva of clays. It needs a lot of practice to master and is an absolute joy to work with once you understand each other :)
It comes in shades of white and is therefore ideal for painting or staining.
STONEWARE
comes in beige or gray and with or without grog. Grog are tiny sand particles in the clay. More about those in the next post.
You can also purchase clay for home use in our studio along with Mayco Stroke & Coat glazes. If you need support in your hand-building projects or tips on the wheel you can visit our Open Atelier at Studio Roka Creative Space.
Thanks for stopping by and see you next week,
Mojca