The Potter's Dictionary of Materials and Techniques - Tapa dura

Praise for previous editions-- "Revised, expanded, and updated (2nd edition, 1986), alphabetical reference for all craft potters presents the potter with information on the sources and character of materials, the behavior of clays and glaze minerals during forming and firing processes, forming methods and glaze construction, together with explanations of terminology and historical developments. Thoroughly illustrated with b&w drawings, diagrams, and photographs."--Book News, Inc. "This book is an alphabetical listing of almost every material, form, term, and process used in or relating to pottery making. Well illustrated in black-and-white, with a few gorgeous color plates, some of the definitions are highly technical. . . . Other entries are likely to be of great interest to the student."--Pottery Making Illustrated

This Dictionary is established as the indispensable reference book for all makers in ceramics, both craft potters and ceramic artists. Professional potters, beginners, students and teachers will find comprehensive information clearly and logically presented. It explains the sources and character of materials, the behaviour of clays and glaze minerals during forming and firing processes, forming methods and glaze construction, together with explanations of terminology and historical developments. A wide range of specialized ways of making, which potters are today exploring, is illustrated and described. The Dictionary's special feature is that it is set out as an index of key words and phrases, giving the reader quick access to as much, or as little, information as is required on any particular topic. Under each heading is a simple definition, usually followed by a short explanation; a detailed article often follows in which technical points are lucidly explained in simple language and with easy-to-follow diagrams and line drawings. Colour photographs illustrate glaze effects and characteristics. The fourth edition has been completely revised, expanded and updated. In response to fresh research and experiment, new articles give thorough coverage of Soda firing, Paper clay, Fuming, Printing, Computer glaze calculations, and Crystalline glazes. In line with current scientific teaching a revised Potter's periodic table is presented, correct chemical terminology is used, and weights and measures are metricated with conversion tables for reference.