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The Potter's Dictionary Of Materials And Techniques

This book is a comprehensive work of considerable magnitude which clearly and logically 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 development. 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 he requires 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. For the first time, the potter has easy access in one volume to a vast range of information, couched in non-technical language and with copious explanatory illustrations - there are nearly 300 line drawings and nearly as many photographs. 349 pages including an appendix of numerous tables needed by every serious potter.

Paperback: 400 pages

Publisher: Pitman Publishing Corporation; First Edition edition (1975)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 0273314653

ISBN-13: 978-0273314653

Product Dimensions: 10.9 x 8.7 x 1.5 inches

Shipping Weight: 4 pounds

Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (24 customer reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #1,921,225 in Books (See Top 100 in Books) #627 in Books > Crafts, Hobbies & Home > Crafts & Hobbies > Wood Crafts & Carving > Carving #1426 in Books > Crafts, Hobbies & Home > Crafts & Hobbies > Reference #419463 in Books > Reference

This is the single best hands-on resource for clay working that I have found in over 20 years of clayworking, studying and teaching. It is a dictionary BUT it is cross-referenced and illustrated with many well-covered, interlocking topics. There are seven full pages on cracking alone with all the various factors described so one can diagnose and correct problems in the shortest possible time.

This is an indispensable reference for anyone involved in the potter's and ceramic arts. More an encyclopedia than a dictionary, the depth and detail of coverage is outstanding.From the artistic to the highly technical, everything is here. Materials & processes as well as chemical compositions and practical formulae are accompanied by black & white photos and excellent diagrams.A wealth of information is provided in an appendix of 42 tables, a bibliography, a list of suppliers and personal recipes from a number of artists. Historical styles and techniques are included as well.Two sections of color plates include many varied and beautiful finished pieces with technical details and references to appropriate dictionary entries. This is definitely a classic in its field.

I have depended upon this book for years as a student and now as a professor of ceramics. Topics are listed alphabetically (as in a dictionary or encyclopedia) and provide information ranging from the definition of common and obscure potter's terminology, to thorough explanations of the physical and chemical properties of clay and various related materials. This is a resource that will keep providing information as you progress in your understanding of the medium.

First of all, this is not a "how-to" book. If you want a book on pottery making or throwing techniques, don't buy this book. However, if you want an exhaustive encyclopedia of ceramic information, you need this book. Want to know why your pottery cracked the way it did, this book will tell you why. Want to know why a glaze recipe differs from batch to batch, the info will be in this book. This is the book that never gets lent out yet always quoted. Irregardless of wording or cultural bias, if you plan on being a professional clay artist, this book is the definitive authority on ceramic science.

The Potter's Dictionary offers details and facts about everything ceramic. Clay and glaze materials are explained more in-depth in this book than any other I have read. Subjects are presented in a clear and concise manner and the alphabetical order makes things very easy to find. It's more like an encyclopedia than a dictionary. When needed, great graphics complement many of the articles. No wonder this book has been published since 1975, A+!!!

A book which covers the potting issues from A-Z. I have not found a ingrediant or process not covered by this Bible. It is my favorite book of how and why ceramics and potting is what it is in a consice, understandable, to-the-point way. Good for beginer to advanced potters who want to know why things happen in clay processes.

The 5th edition of this book is great. It's a great reference for both the hobbyist and Studio potter as well as the newbie.It's set up like a dictionary which makes finding information quick and easy. Although I've heard some remarks made about the lack of depth of knowledge with regards to some specific areas, I think that the knowledge imparted as good when one realizes that more than one specific area is being covered. There is adequate information provided for all areas covered. The book is well thought out and the easily understood and very well researched - and the information can be applied to both sides of the pond. It's a nice addition to my studio library and I would recommend it to anyone with an interest in pottery. I've enjoyed my copy and have no doubt that as more additions become available I'll keep updating.

An excellent reference book for anyone interested in pottery or in the conservation/restoration of ceramics. Well written with a world of information. An expensive book but worth every penny!

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