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Customer Reviews (6)

Surface Design for Ceramics (A Lark Ceramics Book)
Great Book. Gives a good over view of the types of surface treatments that can be done. Good starting point for developing texture as a part of designing ceramics.

Lovin' it
I am pleased and inspired by this book. I am encouraged to stretch myself in my own work.

Inspiring
I found this book full of great ideas and techniques.I have been a "potter" for 12 years, and sometimes find myself in creative ruts.This book came to me at a time I really needed to explore some new ideas.There is nothing "new" in pottery.But there are new ways to present techniques and I think Maureen did this very well.She works in slip-trailing like no one else I've seen.I was really excited by her latex resist techniques as well.Since receiving this book as a gift, I have tried several of the decorating techniques.I've been energized to try new things, and share them with my students as well.
This book is a great addition to most potter's libraries, something I look forward to browsing for many years to come.

Great, useful book!


If you're looking for techniques to try as you work in clay,the recently published Surface Design for Ceramics may be just your cup of tea.

No how-to book showing how to execute someone else's ideas, New Hampshire Institute of Art Ceramics chair Maureen Millls' book exxposes the reader, with helpful detail, to a wide range of decorative processes. Close-up photographs show her hands at work demonstrating at every stage of making, from freshly-thrown clay, through biscuit to post-firing. Her finished pieces are fine illustrations of process. The layout of pages is balance and attractive. While the tools employed are simple, possibilities for their use are many, as are the examples of pots and details of pots showing how the effects are achieved. I found myself drawn in, wanting to know which tools and techniques were used, and in what sequence. There is plenty of explanation.

Mills' own pieces are augmented by photos of other artists' work, both contemporary and from historic periods. Inclusion of pieces by potters in New England, both well and lesser-known, is refreshing, as it reveals her interest in and personal connection to other people's work and style. It's a delight to see so many New Hampshire potters represented!

After the (too short!) chapter on design, dividing the book into clay stages is useful, as it avoids the confusion of figuring out at what stage which technique is appropriate. You can jump right in, and imagination is stimulated, not to copy, but to move through and past, to one's own expression. Options for firing and post-firing finishing are thought-provoking, as one sees the results and can identify the methods of firing. Truly, we are being taught to make our own choices, and the possibilities are endless.

Maureen Mills' considerable experience as a teacher informs the book. She and her husband, Steve Zoldak, are remarkable as educators. Helpful hints abound, clear and concise, never with the pedantic verbosity that has often made me turn the page to escape an author's self-centered intrusion on process.

There is something in this book for most potters, and discreet but crucial suggestions are what intrigue me the most, such as: "It's best to take time to visualize the finished piece before you get started."

informative & inspiring
easy to follow instructions for the techniques covered along with great pics. whether you are a new or seasoned clay addict it is a nice addition to your library. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (15)

Pottery101
I am a new student/devotee to pottery. This book explained clearly the techniques& the terms I need to know. The photographs of pieces by great artists are inspiring & just plain beautiful. I really like the challenge presented in the projects, even if I didn't like al the designs. Each project helps to gain"hands -On"learning & application of skills.A really great ( & by the way instructor- approved) book . It'll be referred back to often.Handbuilt Ceramics: Pinching * Coiling * Extruding * Molding * Slip Casting * Slab Work( A Lark Ceramics Book)

Great pottery handbuilding book
I really enjoyed this book.It had a lot of great ideas for clay handbuilt projects. It also gave details on how to build the sculptures and how clay is found and harvested. It's a great book for anyone who enjoys working with clay.

Great gift Item for the handbuilder in your life.
I bought this as a gift for my 73 year old aunt who just recently began doing pottery and she absolutely loved it! I think its a great gift item for the potter in your life.

Book Review of Handbuilt Ceramics
Great book with easy to follow instructions and ideas for creating a variety of pieces. The author also shares intersting pieces by other artists with lovely photographs.

Seasoned Potter
I am a 8-year potter yet found this book very very interesting...it is well worth the investment. ... Read more

Product Description
Here are directions for many creative, fun-to-do pottery projects potters can follow to produce handsome finished objects without need of a potter's wheel. The author instructs in coil, slab, mold, and pinch techniques to produce pots, bowls, vases, tiles, and other decorative pieces. She also advises on acquiring basic tools, mixing and preparing clay, and using coloring agents. Newcomers to pottery crafting will especially appreciate her tips for making projects easier to accomplish, such as use of a hairdryer at regular intervals for drying out too-wet clay, and easy methods for keeping clay soft and pliable. Step-by-step color photos with detailed captions guide handcrafters through each project from start to finish. Many photos are of the cutaway type to show correct hand positions for controlling the clay, both inside and outside the form. Here's the book that takes the mystery out of handbuilding in clay, demonstrating each step in the pottery-making process. More than 400 color photos. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Lots of pictures but have yet to use it
I bought this for my mom. She already paints and had mentioned wanting to start pottery. I bought this book for her because it was an easy with a lot of pictures. Also step-by-step instructions with pictures made it even easier to self-teach/learn.

It even tells you how to dig your own clay out of the ground.

My mom has yet to start pottery and use this book, so this is only a half-review i guess.

Excellent pottery book
This book is inspirational and very instructive. The photographic frames make the understanding of how each piece is built very helpful. For anyone just getting into pottery or instructing pottery.....it is a must have.

No wheel, no kiln?No problem!
If you're a frustrated potter, with no wheel, no kiln, no tools and no room...lift yourself out of your depression.All you need is a few pounds of polymer air-drying clay, a sink, and a table.Anything else you might need (a rolling pin to flatten the clay) you will probably find around the house.But before all that, you need to get this book!It is the clearest exposition of any artistic process I have ever read, and loaded with tons of crystal clear photographs.You will learn how to make pots, (large and small) bowls, garden sclpture, baskets, boxes with lids and much more.You also get all the decorating techniques as well.

Although the book was produced in England and deals with firing clay, the same procedures can be used with polymer air-drying clay.Polymer clay comes in several colors and can be fired as well (check the label).So, what are you waiting for?Now is the time to fulfill your lifelong dream.You too will be able to say:I can do that!

Great for the Intermediate-Level Potter
This book includes many photos of the hand-building process and examples of finished products. It's really nice to look at and inspires me to add new techniques to my hand-built pieces.

Great ideas for the hands
I teach alt ed. kids and this has been a great books for ideas and techniques.The pictures are outstanding.My students that are into ceramics love this book for ideas. :-) ... Read more

Product Description
Ceramic craftsmen intent on making pottery for everyday use, as well as dedicated artisans concentrating on fine-art objects will find inspiration and practical instruction in this handsome volume. Step-by-step tutorials take readers through each stage of the ceramic-making process with--

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Customer Reviews (13)

Changed my life!
I was given this book by my son, and it has literally changed my life as a potter!I was an intermediate student, who sometimes threw beautiful pots and sometimes not. Who sometimes could center clay beautifully and then sometimes fought clay off the wheel.I had a love of throwing but little control over the actual process, and was becoming frustrated with not having consistent experiences each day.After reading the first few chapters of this book, that all IMMEDIATELY changed.Really!I center easily now. I raise the sides evenly now.My bottoms aren't too thick along the sides... ever.My rim's don't go out of whack.And that all happened the day after I read the first couple of chapters!I am now going back and re-reading in detail. One of the best parts of this book, is the great detail (and photos) of hand positions and her discussion of pressure points, and exactly where you should be touching the clay.Now when I sit down at the wheel - 9 out of 10 pieces are almost perfect... every time.It is so cool. My fellow students call it the "miracle book".I do too!

excellent service, good condition
I purchased this book for the excellent graphic illustration and description on throwing clay pots on the potter's wheel.We'd been introduced at my public library. Would have waited weeks to "get what I wanted!"

It came promptly in a sturdy box, which sat on my porch in the rain for the day, but the book inside was packaged well and remained dry!The cover has some sun damage and a small piece of tape on a tear, but no matter; text and illustrations are fine.I'm very happy to own a copy of this book! Thank you for being there Amazon.I'll visit again soon.Excellent service, good condition. Satisfied customer!

EXCELLENT OVERALL
The book was so-so, but the service was outstanding.....it arrived right on time & in excellent condition.Was in better shape than I expected. Thanks!

Clarity in writing used to elucidate basic concepts
I sometimes wonder how the beautiful conversational style used in this book came about.

Woody has built creativity into its simple, yet very effective composition, design and production.

I imagine whether Elsbeth S. Woody was just stating her instructions as she threw on her own wheel before the photographer who took all the photographs. The photographs of pottery cross sections provide a great touch in the teaching technique used in this book.

I'm a beginner and having read and applied (albeit partially and to the best of my abilities) only the first couple of chapters so far, I look forward to owning a copy as a lasting reference, and a great read.(My current copy is from the library.)

Great Pottery Book
This book was a Christmas gift to my daughter and son-in-law, since both of them recently started taking pottery classes.She really liked the details shown in this book.It shows step-by-step directions and pictures.The photos showing how the hands are placed inside the item are a big plus.It made a great gift to them. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (25)

Best How-to book!
This is my favorite book of all my ceramic books and I have more than a few!If you don't want to spend the money for a high fire gas or propane kiln (and who does in this economy!) then this book will guide your exploration into different ways of finishing your clay creations.I tried the barrel firing (without the terra sigillata, just burnishing) by Linda Keleigh and was able to sell the resulting products. This is a good hands on book.

Alternative Kilns & Firing Techniques
Well written with explicit instructions and photos explaining each technique. Inspiring to try new techniques!

Pottery
Very informative book. There are so many ways to fire pottery that I didn't even conceive of. Excellent material for anyone who enjoys making things with clay!

raku kiln
Has some real nice photos, a few good Raku ideas that make the book worth wile.
Gives the average person a very good overview in bare bones terms, and the experienced a couple of techniques to try.
If you just looking at building a Raku kiln. I have found equivalent or better designs on the web. Enjoyable to read for a tech manual. Inexpensive well worth the price.

outstanding book
Got a wheel and don't have thousands of dollars for a kiln? Here's your solution. This book shows you how to make and use several inexpensive gas- and wood-fired kilns. If you live somewhere you can light a fire outdoors, you can fire your own work. The directions are clear, complete, and the photographs are excellent. There is also a photo gallery of works fired using the methods detailed in the book. Several of these pieces are absolutely stunning.

The book also led me to a potentially wonderful feature. Lark Books maintains a list of suppliers for the materials used in their craft books on their website, but I can't make it work. For instance, you can't just search for "fire brick" to find a vendor near you--it seems to want the name of a company. Hopefully, Lark will improve this feature works. If it were easy to use, it would be a great asset. They should also allow Amazon customers to look inside their books. They have top-notch art and excellent content. I can't believe they don't utilize the full value of these as marketing tools. ... Read more

Product Description
Working with clay is a deeply satisfying creative hobby, but many would-be potters are put off because they don't know how to get started. Pottery Basics shows the way. With instructive, clearly captioned, step-by-step photos on every page, it teaches everything they need to know to start making, decorating, and firing pottery. It also presents twelve simple projects that encourage beginning potters to put their new skills into practice. Expert potter Jacqui Atkin instructs on:

Product Description

From firing to finishing, this is the definitive reference on raku. Ceramists will be informed and inspired by this newly updated, technique-based book with how-to photos and text. It covers such topics as types of clay, forming techniques, firing, glazes, decoration, and kilns and kiln construction. Mastering Raku also includes a gallery of works from around the world along with updated clay and glaze recipes.

Customer Reviews (4)

comprehensive
Steven Branfman's Mastering Raku is a comprehensive overview of the Raku process. An enjoyable read from start to finish. The book covers everything from kiln construction, glazes,health and safety, and a wonderful section teaching Raku. Beautiful color photographs of Raku work throughout the book provide inspiration for anyone interested in the Raku process. A most have for anyone interested in this expressive firing process!

The Raku Potter's Dream Book
The author put together a combination of ideas and photos with the work of raku potters from around to world. Then complemented that with an explanation of how to achieve those results. I thought other raku books were great but this one takes you over the top with it's insight and inspiration. I also like the fact that he included some other low-fire techniques like pit firing and saggar firing.There is a list of glaze recipes and step by step instruction on building a raku kiln. To me this is an awesome book.

Mastering Raku
Mastering Raku by Steven Branfman is a book written by a true expert in the field of ceramics. More importantly his informal writting style covers the topic of Raku in excellent detail. This technical packed text covers Raku glazes, clay body's, kilns, safety consideration along with supplying clay body and glaze formulas. The photos of Raku pottery are excellent showing many Raku artists pottery in great detail. Other photos reveal the actual firing process and glaze effects. Students new to Raku can read the book and can feel competent when starting to make their own pots. Steven truely is a great teacher and reading this book is almost like being in his class. It is a rare text that will offer useful information to beginning as well as advanced students and professional potters.

The history of Raku was the first time I encounted a complete account of how Raku came into existance. I found this part of the book was worth the price alone. Steven also explains and corrects several myths about Raku that I will let future readers find and enjoy for themselves. While there are other books on Raku this one covers all aspects of this fast firing technique. Steven has written the dfinitive text on this topic.

Jeff Zamek, Ceramics Consulting Services

HOT stuff!
WOW!This is a GREAT book for the new or even experienced raku fan.It is the most comprehensive book that I know of and is destined to be the new raku "bible".It includes everything you could possibly want to know from basic firing techniques to alternative styles such as Naked Raku.It also has sections on safety and even building your own kiln.I have been doing clay/raku for 35 years and I still found it to have a ton of useful information in it.Oh, and it also has a bunch of recipes for slips, glazes, etc. so with this book in hand you are good to do just about anything! ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (6)

Wheel Thrown Ceramics
This book is wonderful for the wheel thrower.It offers insight into finishing that you wouldn't think of.It is great for any beginning potter.

Good for concepts and examples
I bought this book by chance but it is my current go to book when looking for inspiration and reviewing technique.Don Davis is a master.He uses subtle changes in his pieces that give them a uniqueness I enjoy.My only complaint would be that I wish he had more pictures of his work inside the book.

My favorite pottery book for the wheel!
When I first started throwing, I found this book an extremely useful source for reminders, clarifications, and pointers on techniques I'd learned in class. It's a great practical guide for beginners. Now that I've been throwing for a while, I find I continue to turn to it for ideas and pointers. I've purchased several other clay books that were touted as "must haves" for potters, but I've been disappointed with them. They often focused only a few pages on wheel throwing, or were not as clear when describing techniques. Davis' book, with its straightforward instructions, good illustrative technique photos, and interesting photos of varied designs and forms, is the reference I keep turning to for myself and sharing with my classmates.

great book for beginners
This is a good book for beginners. The book has great pictures and the instructions are easy to follow. I also like the progression in the projects. It builds your throwing skills step by step.

This book is a must for those looking for great new ideas!
A wonderful book for beginners and experienced potters alike.Lots of new ideas with detailed explanation and pictures.An absolute must, and agreat price too! ... Read more

Product Description
This practical and supremely useful manual is the first comprehensive, hands-on introduction to Japanese ceramics. The Japanese ceramics tradition is without compare in its technical and stylistic diversity, its expressive content, and the level of appreciation it enjoys, both in Japan and around the world.Inside Japanese Ceramicsfocuses on tools, materials, and procedures, and how all of these have influenced the way traditional Japanese ceramics look and feel. A true primer, it concentrates on the basics: setting up a workshop, pot-forming techniques, decoration, glazes, and kilns and firing. It introduces the major methods and styles that are taught in most Japanese workshops, including several representative and well-known wares: Bizen, Mino, Karatsu, Hagi, and Kyoto.

While presenting the time-tested techniques of the tradition, author Richard L. Wilson also accommodates modern technologies and materials as appropriate. Wilson has gathered a wealth of information on two fronts—as a researcher of Japanese pottery and art history, and as a potter who has studied and worked for years with master Japanese potters. In his introduction, he provides a short history of Japanese ceramics, and in closing he looks beyond traditional methods toward ways in which Western potters can make Japanese methods their own. Richly illustrated with 24 color plates, over 100 black-and-white photographs, and over 70 instructive line-drawings,Inside Japanese Ceramicsis indispensable for potters as well as connoisseurs and collectors of Japanese ceramics. Above all, it is an invitation to participate—to study, make, touch, and use the exquisite products of the Japanese ceramic tradition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Intermediate level introduction
Although a textbook for ceramist, it is a stimulating reading for people with a general interest in ceramics.

I found the book fascinating.The book provides an introduction to the techniques of japanese wood fired ceramics, its history and context. The book has plenty of well chosen ilustrations along with the well thought out, enjoyable writing.

Inside Japanese Ceramics
I am a pottery instructor and over the years continually have Jananese students.Japanese pottery in always as Function as it is Decorative. This book is a wonderful tool in helping me to explain tecniques to my students.
(Especailly when they don't speak much English)As the old saying goes a picture is worth a thousand words.The step by step pictoral instructions are so helpful.
If you are interested in Japanese pottery this is a must have book.

A Great Intro to Yakimono
This book may look like a quick , light read, but it is a great introduction to Japanese wood fired ceramics (yakimono).A good amount of illustrations help to guide you along with the well thought out, enjoyable writing.A good addition to the academic library and a nice resource for artists as well.

An essential guide for the potter or the collector.
This volume presents not only the "how-to" of Japanese ceramics, but broader considerations of their significance within the context of world ceramics.Richard Wilson has not only trained extensively withJapanese potters, but is also thoroughly familiar with the many historicalceramic types which form the tradition which continues today. Virtually no art potters today remain unaffected by the tremendous impactof Japanese ceramics, and Wilson's book provides the contemporary ceramistwith a reference that is at once useful and inspiring.The text is clearand straightforward in the explanatory sections while at the same timeconveying to the reader the fascinating historical and cultural context onwhich the many techniques are based.The color illustrations are firstclass, and the technical photographs, illustrations and diagrams are clear,easy to read and appropriately placed. As in his earlier volume, TheArt of Ogata Kenzan, Wilson has taken great pains to ensure that hisinformation is both accurate and as complete as possible.Eschewing pasttendencies of Western ceramists to mainly focus either on the externals ofJapanese pots or on a touchy-feely, pseudo-philosophical/religous approach,Wilson sees the essence of Japanese ceramics as intrinsically linked toproduction process and functionality.As he summarizes, "(TheJapanese ceramics legacy) suggests... renouncing artistic individualism...and rededicating oneself to personal discipline and harmony with materials,processes, and the user community.It implies thinking about the pots aspart of an ongoing process, a relaxed conversation with the world, ratherthan as a kind of personal decree." Through this book, RichardWilson has provided a great volume of reference not only for those who"do" ceramics, but for those who love ceramics as well. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (14)

Nothing for mid-range potters
I looked all through the section on glaze formulas, and if you, like me, are always looking for new cone 5-7 glazes, forget this book.It's all cone 9-11 and cone 04.Save your money.

I've been waiting for this....
This book has very useful information for the studio potter, from formulating clays and glaze to troubleshooting problems. The author addresses common issues that I deal with daily in my job.The chapter on troubleshooting glaze has a wonderful reference chart for fixing your problem, and the kiln heat work chart is extremely helpful in teaching potters what chemical changes their clay is going through as it fires. If you're looking for a super reference handbook, this is it.
Julie Hregdovic

Reinforce Your Understanding with Practicality
The other favorable reviews have it right.He is a knowledgeable person.Read it several times with intervals in between. Each photo is there to illustrate a specific concept.There are many variables in potting about which the average hobbyist can get a glimpse here.Once you are able to get a bit of clay to stand up, your next challenge is Glaze.Determine to know something about it in order to understand (sorta) what's going on.I also recommend Mastering Cone 6 Glazes and John Britt's High Fire Book.This is a great place to start.

Very informative
Everything I hoped it would be.Made things easy to understand.Very happy with it.

The Potter's Studio Clay and Glaze Handbook
My wife and I have owned and operated a potter for over thirty years. Our bookshelves display quite a selection of pottery related books.
Jeff Zamek,s latest, The Potters Studio Clay nd Glaze Handbook is a welcome addition.
I found it well organized,taking the reader through setting up a studio,he properties of different clays bodies,glaze chemistry to whats going on inside a gas kiln.
I was glad I took the time to read his book.
Jeff Manfredi
Calistoga Pottery ... Read more

Product Description
Functional Pottery, the best-selling pottery reference first published in 1986, has been extensively revised and updated to include more than 250 color photos as well as hundreds of black and white photos and illustrations. Covering historical as well as contemporary pottery, this acclaimed and inspirational book presents both philosophical and practical experiences from the 43-year pottery-making career of Robin Hopper, one of North America's most recognized ceramic artists.

Perusing this book is like having a ceramic museum, art gallery, encyclopedia, and master potter at hand, teaching and inspiring at the same time. Beginning with a view of the historical development of pottery, the book presents a wide discussion on the aesthetics of form and design. Also addressed are the mechanics of making and the practical solutions to functional design in pots for eating, drinking, storage, pouring, cooking, serving, and pots for rituals and contemplation. The recent work and short biographies of 16 internationally recognized ceramic artists are showcased in the Portfolio section. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Functional Pottery
This book arrived immediately, and in great shape.. Exactly as described.. It is exactly what I wanted.

Hopper's Functional Pottery
Robin Hopper strikes again!For every potter who wants to get better, there is something to do, something to follow, something new to try.I could go on making the same stuff, day-to-day, month-in, month-out, but I like to stretch my abilities, fail a few times, then learn how to do it the right way.Robin's book, "Functional Pottery" helps me to achieve my goals.I have about 300 books in my pottery library.If I were to be forced to reduce that number to ten, "Functional Pottery" would be one of the keepers.

A must have for every potter's library
Robin Hopper has written a definitive book for all potters, beginners and masters alike.The chosen work for photos offers an excellent range of contemporary and classic forms for study.

Functional Pottery; Form and Aesthetic in Pots of Purpose
I found Functional Pottery to be a pleasant surprise for the most part, although I was mildly disappointed by the more practical sections of the book.Roughly the first half of the book provides an interestinghistorical and cultural review of functional pottery, which went beyondwhat I had anticipated from the title and general description.A portionof the second half of the book focused on the mechanics of particular formsof functional pottery.This portion, which was my particular interest inbuying the book, was a little less thorough and extensive than I had hoped. For the beginner/intermediate potter specifically interested in practicaladvice and detail regarding the mechanics of functional pottery forms, thematerial in the book, while useful, may not go far enough.I recommendthis book as a general overview, keeping in mind that the scope of the bookcovers a broader range of topics than implied by its title, and that onlysixty pages of the book are dedicated to the practical considerations andmechanics of designing and creating functional pottery.

For potters concerned about form and function
This book is an excellent addition to my collection of pottery books.This book deals with the more technical side of pottery.This book is for people who have accomplished throwing but want to take it to the nextlevel.The book covers everyhting from history of pottery, to correctproportions, and also has artist bio's.Excellent book, i rate it 12 outof 10. ... Read more

Product Description
A book for all potters seeking new techniques and fresh approaches.Creative Pottery features step-by-step insight to the work of nine distinguished craftspeople.Join such renowned potters as Chris Staley, Linda Arbuckle, Michael Simon, and Peter Pinnell in their own studios as they create beautiful pottery forms.Three sections explore technique, inspiration, and approach:

--Forming-wheelthrowing, throwing and altering, and hand-building

--Surface-raw glazing, Majolica techniques, and spray glazing

--Firing-wood firing, electric raku firing, and primitive firing by the potters of Jatun Molino

--Plus tools, clay and glaze recipes, and tricks of the trade ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Not for the beginning potter
Nice photos of the featured artists' works. Very brief/partial step-by-steps of 10 contemporary potters that just touch on a few building, glazing and firing methods.

Great tips, wonderful galleries
This is a nice introduction to pottery techniques for initial constructions to fishing off with surface decorations and firing techniques. The large galleries are a great inspiration for artists of all levels.

The book is broken into three main sections: forming, surface and firing. The first focus on creating clay objects; both throwing techniques and slab construction are covered here. Projects include making cups, a square covered jar and a slab teapot. The second section concentrates on surface techniques included raw glazing, majolica decoration and using terra sigillata. The third section gives instruction on three different firing techniques including using a gas reduction kiln, anagama kiln and raku-firing.

You are guided seamlessly though each project with step-by-step instructions and photos. In the surface and firing sections the emphasis is on the finishing technique being featured, with basic information on how the object to be decorated was created. Some knowledge of the creation process is assumed. Each projects includes "notes for the studio" that I found very helpful. They give great advice on everything from the amount of clay your glazes contain to getting jar lids to fit correctly.

There are beautiful galleries of numerous pieces after each section as well. Information on the gallery objects includes the artist, techniques used and size in both metric and English measurements. Contact information on the artists is provided in the back.

In addition there are clay and glaze recipes from each artist. There are over 30 in total including a majolica base and Ferguson blue raku glaze. A list of schools that offer intensive workshops in pottery is also included. Although a fully equipped pottery studio is needed to complete most of the projects, this book offers a great overview of processes and techniques for the novice and wonderful examples of finished work for the lover of the potter's art.

outstanding text, elaborately illustrated
Michelle has written a wonderfully informative text.The book clearly depicts a wide variety of styles and techniques.The words of the individual artists help make the book even more powerful.Unique is thewide variety of approaches to working in the clay.A must have for thelibraries of any serious students of clay.

Well written, beautiful photos, I hope there'll be more
Michael (please note correct spelling of Michael, it is NOT Micheal) is NOT the illustrator of Michelle's book.

Michael Coakes IS an outstanding illustrator in his own right, but NOT the illustrator of his sister's book. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (21)

Great Image Transfer Book
This is a great informative book on how to transfer images from linoleum blocks, screenprints, decals - to clay. The detailed pictures show you step by step how to do each process. I would highly recommend this book.

clear instructions
This book covers a range of simple print techniques in a clearly described and illustrated way.

Image Transfer on Clay
Inside you'll find quite a few different methods for transferring images onto the clay surface.All of the suggestions are accompanied by pictures and photos.I would highly recommend this book if you're interested in experimenting and exploring new techniques.If you're looking for specific advice on a certain kind of image transfer this may or may not be the book.Some of the more basic methods are explained really well.If you're looking to learn to silkscreen, you're going to need some additional information.If you want to experiment with decals, this is a great intro.Overall, I've found myself referencing this book on a number of occasions.

Image Transfer on Clay
Image transfer on Clay is so informative, but I did find it a little difficult to understand, even though I've been in ceramics for some time. I think it would better suit someone who has advanced knowledge in ceramics or some knowledge of screen printing processes.

Disappointingly Short Book
I checked out this book to find out more techniques for transferring images to my pots. The areas covered were fine, but there are more ways to transfer images to pots that are left out. Specifically, I wanted information on making transferware. The book also does not include much information about the types of slips that can be used. I'd rather have recipes for slips than the Orton cone chart that was included. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

collector's encylopedia of weller pottery
I found this book to be very helpful in the history and identification of patterns.This is a really good resource book.I would love to see updated values.

Weller Pottery
The book gave information about Weller pottery, like any book it can not cover all the pieces of pottery or antique. It did have some information on Sicard and other items people may not be familiar with.It did have information on marks and some artist which is always good.Maybe not enough on some of the unmarked Weller, but overall it was helpful.

weller pottery time line
Weller Pottery
1872-1948
Fultonham & Zanesville Ohio

Weller Timeline

April 12, 1851 Samuel Augustus Weller born in Ohio
1872Operates a one-man pottery in Fultonham, near Zanesville in Muskeegum County, Ohio
1882-1890Expansion to Zanesville, followed by building, buy-outs until 1931 when the Depression forces consolidation and down-sizing
1893-1896 William Long's Lonhuda ware, Louise Weller and Louwelsa born, 1896
1897Henry Schmidt develops Weller Turada, the first squeezebag pottery line in the Ohio valley, Owens Pottery introduces similar Cyrano line in 1898
1895-1904 Charles Upjohn heads Weller decorating department, develops Dickensware II in 1900
1902-1907 Jacques Sicard at Weller, Sicard line appears in the fall of 1903; (Clement Massier Reflets Metalliques by 1889)
1902-1905 Weller becomes world's largest pottery and maker of mass produced Art Pottery
1903-1904 Frederick Hurton Rhead at Weller, develops Jap Birdimal line in 1904, becomes Roseville's first art director in 1904, leaves Roseville in 1908
1904 Weller has huge display at the St. Louis Exposition
1908 Rudolph Lorber develops Dechiwo, 1908, which leads to Burntwood, Claywood, and others
1917 Weller Hudson family introduced
1916-1929 Rudolph Lorbor develops Brighton birds, Muskota, Woodcraft, Forest, Glendale and other great naturalistic lines, ending with Coppertone, 1929. Dorothy England Laughead creates Silvertone, Chase, and the Garden Animals
1920-1924 John Lessell heads the decorating department, develops luster glaze lines including LaSa, Marengo, Cloudburst, Lamar, others
July 1, 1922 Weller Pottery incorporated as "S.A. Weller, Inc."
October 4, 1925Samuel Augustus Weller dies
1925-1932 Nephew Harry Weller takes over as president, introduces continuous kiln, consolidates plants in 1931 due to Depression, dies in auto crash in 1932
1930-1932 Last freehand decorated lines introduced at Weller: Stellar, Geode, Cretone, Raceme, Bonito
1932-1937 Frederic Grant, son-in-law, is president for one year, divorced from Ethel (Weller, b. 1898); Irvin Smith, another son-in-law (Louise) is president from 1933-1937
1935 Freehand decoration ends at Weller
1935-1948 Weller produces simplified embossed lines
1937-1948 Walter Hughes, a ceramic engineer and former employee at American Encaustic Tiling Company is Weller's last president
1947-1948 Essex Wire Corporation buys controlling share in Weller, closes the pottery in 1948
1954 Minnie Weller dies at age 92, Weller house contents are auctioned

Weller Collector's Reference
This book was very helpful to me -I just started collecting Weller pottery since the beginning of this year.Although this book couldn't possible have every piece of Weller pottery photographed or drawn it isstill a very useful and appreciated guide for any Weller collector. I amvery pleased with my copy and would recommend it to anyone consideringstarting to collect Weller pottery or interested in placing a"ballpark" value on their Weller collectibles. There are somebeautiful Weller pieces out there available for the discerning collector -with this book you are an educated collector.Good luck and enjoycollecting some Weller pottery- maybe our paths will cross?

Excellent resource for the Weller collector
This is the only book I know of that is dedicated solely to Wellerpottery.It includes a very detailed history of Wellers conception anddemise.A section on the prominent Weller artisans and all the knownmarkings of the pottery is very helpful.

The main reason I bought thisbook though is for the color photographs of the different Weller lines. They are beautiful and it makes identifying pieces much easier.Besides acopy for myself I also gave one to my Mother-in-law for her birthday.Weboth love it! ... Read more

Product Description

In the same bright, open design as the well-received Ceramics for Beginners: Hand Building, this second entry in the series offers an introduction to the mechanics of wheel-thrown ceramics. Artist Emily Reason takes the beginner ceramist through nine projects, starting from one of two fundamental forms (cylinder or bowl).  Color bands throughout point the reader to related information on various techniques, while gallery sections provide inspiration.

Customer Reviews (1)

Love It
The book is easy to use and very informative for a new potter.I've tried several of the projects and have had good success following the tutorials. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (1)

another great book
If your interested in thinking about the formal qualities of pottery, how they developed and why certain forms are aesthetically pleasing, Rhodes does a great job at discussing and illustrating it here. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (9)

Excellent book for beginners, get your hands dirty!
Well written, easy to follow instructions, step by step with being too much of hand holding, ready projects which can be changed easily, and a lot of info, for a beginner, coils, slabs, stamps, about glazing, firing, clay, kilns,and setting up the studio. Even though I will not have a kiln, or real studio, (doing ceramics for pleasure), this is a wonderful how-to book, and a good reference. Pictures following instructions are great,and samples of ready project too. Diverse artwork by professionals are feast for the eyes.This book fully satisfies my needs as person who wants to make ceramics for personal enrichment, but it will be smart enoughfor an artist who never tried ceramics, and would like to expand his/her experience in another, new area.

why no preview?
I wanted to purchase this book, but any publisher that will not allow his book to be previewed, or at least let me look at the contents, index, and covers, cwill not get my business. I'll have to wait until I can get to a book store an hour away to physically check out the book. How sad.

Great Place To Begin!
This is a very well-written little manual on handbuilding clay.Very informative, easy to understand and loaded with tips and good ideas.I am far beyond the beginning stage of handbuilding, but it was good in terms of review and also offers additional techniques not covered in the handbuilding classes I attended.Definitely a 'keeper.'Highly recommend for beginners.

For people just starting handbuilding.
I purchased this book because I wanted to know more about handbuilding. It bills itself as being for beginners and I should have given that more weight in my decision to buy it. If you have done some hand building skip this book.

Good Job!
As a neophyte student of ceramics, I was thrilled to discover such a wonderfully presented and explicit account of turning clay into beautiful and functional works of art. Whether one is looking for instructions or inspiration, Shay's book satisfies. The wording is clear, concise, and carefully crafted to lead and reveal without being tediously pedantic. Each chapter builds sequentially and is complemented, supported, and underscored with outstanding graphics. Kudos to Shay, her photographer, her editors, and her publisher for such a stellar work of art in itself. I really love this book and plan to give several as gifts to family and friends. ... Read more

Product Description
This book is split into three main sections: Decorating Ceramics; Decorating Tiles; and Ceramic Mosaic. Each section begins by listing the very simple materials and equipment needed, as well as a step-by-step instructions to all the basic techniques. Templates for all designs featured in this book are included at the back of the book, which can either be copied as they are, or used as a starting point for your own designs. ... Read more