The selected clay determines whether your Bellevue pottery will be a success or not. There, this guide will help you to define clay types and choose the best one for you.
Identify Clay Type
- Earthenware:A low-firing clay body generally fired in an upper range between 1800 °F and 2200 °F. Porous and used in articles such as pots, vases, and statuettes. Lighter clay body, good with work, easily affordable.
- Stoneware: Normally this clay body is fired at 2200°F-2400°F temperature ranges. Very durable and sealed to be watertight, it qualifies for practical items like mugs, plates, and cookware. Stoneware is very flexible and can be glazed to get many different finishes.
Factors to Consider on Clay
- Project Needs: Since you want to use your pottery, consider crafting with an appropriate clay such as stoneware for functional ware. Where decorations are concerned, you are likely to use a more expressive clay like earthenware or porcelain.
- Skill Level: Beginners usually go for more forgiving clays such as earthenware, while experimenting with more difficult clay body types as they develop experience: stoneware or porcelain.
- Cost and Availability: Different clay types are priced differently and sometimes have availability limitations. Thus, consider how much you are willing to spend and the access to local clay suppliers before choosing.
Right Clay for Bellevue Pottery
Evaluate your needs from different clay types for the best choice of Bellevue pottery project. Need not be shy when asking for advice from local pottery hands or fellow potters. Weigh each one of those factors, and you can choose your perfect clay to give expression to your creative vision.