Potter's Guide to Ceramic Surfaces [Hardcover]

Jo Connell (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: February 2002

Readers will learn how to beautify their ceramic pieces by introducing color, texture, and pattern using a range of decorative techniques at various stages of the making process - at the wet, leatherhard and biscuit stages, as well as (exploring) multiple firing and post-firing methods.

Designed to encourage both the novice and the experienced potter to explore new techniques and combine them in a fresh and creative way, this is the most visually comprehensive decoration book every produced.

More than 70 techniques are described and clearly laid out with detailed step-by-step instructions. This is the book that will inspire all ceramists.

• More than 70 techniques for beautifying ceramic pieces

• More than 700 full-color photos illustrate the techniques

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

Here are three outstanding books on ceramic glazes, each directed at a different level of expertise. Connell gives a good overview of the large variety of modern glazes available. She illustrates more than 60 decorative techniques used during the biscuit (or bisque) stage and through a range of firing, multiple firing, and postfiring techniques. Tools, health and safety procedures, and clear, step-by-step instructions are included but only in enough depth for the novice potter to get a sense of the possibilities. More advanced potters will want Cochrane's in-depth instruction on the salt-glaze process. The rich tones of salt glaze were the latest technology in 17th-century England, supplanting rough peasant earthenwares and, in turn, being replaced by cream ware and bone china. Salt glaze was justly revived in the 20th century, but the only two books that came out of the revival are now out of print. Cochrane's effort will remain the standard for some time. Serious potters will welcome Hesselberth and Roy's approach to the complexities of formulating one's own glazes. They cover the durability of glazes, the leaching of unwanted chemicals into food or drink, the fading of colors, and more. Purchase one, two, or all three of these books, depending on the interest and expertise level of your library's readers.
Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.

About the Author

Jo Connell has lectured in ceramics in schools and colleges for over 25 years and has run workshops in the UK, USA and France. Her love of travel, the countryside and the sea, together with a keen interest in ceramic history has inspired a sense of colour and pattern which have become the hallmark of her own decorative work. A professional member of the Craft Potters Association, she exhibits and sells her ceramics internationally and examples have appeared in many publications. She continues to explore other media such as glass, metal, photography and print. She has a long-established workshop and now makes ceramics as well as running courses at her home studio in Warwickshire. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 160 pages
• Publisher: Krause Publications; 2005 edition (February 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0873493591
• ISBN-13: 978-0873493598
• Product Dimensions: 11.4 x 8.8 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2.1 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (8 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,157,922 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

42 of 42 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars This book includes everything!, September 16, 2005

By 

Rebeka Kahn "Rebeka" (Ireland) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Potter's Guide to Ceramic Surfaces (Hardcover)

this is probably the best & most informative ceramics book i have bought (and i have bought lots!). It gives great detail on every decoration method and even includes some great yet simple glaze recipies! Definitly the book i am most happy with of all the books on ceramics i have. Sure, some of the work used for examples would not be to my taste but the method is there and can be applied to anything you design yourself. On saying that there are also some pictures of really nice pieces, but i guess it covers everyones taste. A highly recommended buy at what i consider a great price for what you get! Enjoy! your 'bible' of surface treatments!

26 of 26 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Best Guide we've seen so far, January 31, 2006

By 

J. Kastan (amazing Minnesota) - See all my reviews
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Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Potter's Guide to Ceramic Surfaces (Hardcover)

My husband and I have been doing pottery for many years and we're always picking up books to get new ideas. This one is the best we've seen in a very long time in regard to variety, unique ideas, and information provided. We highly reccommend it for anyone from beginners to experts.

11 of 11 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A must-buy for beginners, July 11, 2006

By 

Kenneth LUK (Hong Kong) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Potter's Guide to Ceramic Surfaces (Hardcover)

This book serves as a very good starting guide for beginners. It is so comprehensive that almost all the techniques for surface decoration are covered. It should be unparalleled if further enriched on the glaze part.