Specially prepared liquid clay ("slip") is poured into plaster moulds and left until the plaster has absorbed enough water to leave a solid layer on the inside surface of the mould. The excess slip is then poured off and the layer left to harden. The mould is then dismantled and the piece left for a few days to dry. This is the "greenware" stage and the piece is naturally very fragile. The piece is tidied and can be decorated with coloured underglazes, carved or left plain for the first firing at approximately 1060 degrees C.
After the first firing the piece is referred to as "bisque" and is then ready for decorating and glazing ready for the final firing.
Greenware is only available for collection due to its fragility.
It is also possible for the pieces to be cast in Red Terracotta. |
