subject: How Pottery Is Made [print this page] This technique is still taught to children today. Then, around 4000 B.C., the first pottery wheel was used in Egypt, heralding a new era in pottery making.
Working with pottery on a wheel is called throwing, because it is the most important step is the placement of the clay firmly in the center of the wheel, which is accomplished by a vigorous throwing of the clay against the wheel. Although mechanized wheels are available, many lovers of this art prefer the uniqueness of pieces that are thrown on manually-powered wheels.
Decorations are added before the clay is allowed to dry. This is done by using tools that can create a variety of individualized and intricate markings with the only limit the creativity and inclinations of the potter. Many different decorations can be applied horse hair pottery is even possible. Since all the decorations are applied by hand, no two pieces of pottery are completely alike.
The various consistencies of clay pots are attributed to the temperature at which they are fired. Porous pots are fired at 500 deg. C; stoneware, ceramic and porcelain are fired at a much higher temperature. At the highest temperature, the clay vitrifies, resulting in the strongest pottery structure.
The combined skills of throwing, decorating, glazing and firing are truly the result of years of practice. Though it might appear intimidating, it is very accessible for novices who would like to learn the basic techniques and throw their own clay pots.
