Slip testing

This week I've been experimenting with Slip Testing.

To create a standard ceramic slip I blend up some of the same clay body the slip is going to be applied to with lots of added water to a thick creamy consistency; which then gets sieved.

*Another way to create slip is to dry out clay then add water to turn it into a liquid.

 I measure out the slip into litre's (1000ml)then add the percentage of coloured stain / oxide to the slip. This particular clay is a sandy coloured buff stoneware, to get a strong colour I add 10% to the slip. 

You can use less stain to achieve lighter colours, the percentage you use depends on the clay body you're applying it to and the finish you wish to achieve. If your using oxides, they are much stronger than stains so the percentage is likely to be less.

As you can see I have done 2 tiles of each colour, this is because I shall glaze 1 tile of each colour so I have reference to the colour without glaze. When you apply glaze it enhances the slip's colour and it becomes much brighter. The colour difference would be from a pastel shade to a bright strong colour.

 The remains of the tiles I made are left on the fabric, I love seeing this as it reminds me of the tiling that can be created with the pieces I've cut out.

Which do you prefer to add colour to your slips, oxides or stains?

Weather proofing has begun!

This winter is predicted to get really cold, my workshop is a loglap cabin, well insulated with heat/cold proof protected plaster board and insulation lining; I pulled out all the stops to keep my workshop warm and weather proof.

I'd done well, until this November temperatures have dropped and the glazes which are in air tight plastic tubs are covered in condensation and tiny ice particles are showing in the liquid!

Weather proofing has begun!

I've brought some plastic storage boxes and to make the contents safe from the weather I'm lining them with insulation roll; it’s actually used for insulating attics, it keeps cool in summer and warm in winter.

I used 'ThermaWrap Loft Insulation' and Clear Packaging tape from Screwfix.

First I did the easiest part as it involved less cutting, The lid was easy only using one large piece, making sure that once stuck the lid still fit securely on the box.

I lined the three largest sides with one long piece; then I taped around every edge with clear packing tape to seal each edge and attach in place.

Next I cut out the two end pieces, overlapping the sides by an inch so there was no box showing; they also got taped into place.

Heat / Cold / Damp proof storage box finished! Just another 5 to go!

How do you protect your materials in the warm summer/cold winter months? I'd love to hear your ideas!

Autumn Colours inspiring glaze tests

The best bit about Autumn has got to be the change in season, Autumn turning into winter. Yes its FREEZING and the weather is mostly miserable... but the nature is just glorious!

I just love walking out in nature and seeing the change, the colours transform to beautiful shades of auburn, yellows and reds; who needs to find inspiration for creative work on the internet when its right there outside.

I wasn't out in a beautiful park, I was actually at the hospital, but it goes to show you can find inspiration anywhere.

I seen the most stunningly coloured bush amidst the dying trees losing their leaves for the winter was this bush ablaze with colour, it caught my eye and I couldn't help but capture it!

I cant wait to try and capture the colour change in my ceramics.I feel some glaze testing is on its way!

The individual leaves are what I want to inspire some colourful glaze tests.

Glaze Tests in the kiln all ready to go!