Rifinitura a Secco - Scuola Ceramica Online

Scuola di ceramica online

6 Sept 202008:59

Summary

TLDRIn this video tutorial, the instructor shares valuable insights on refining ceramic pieces before firing them in the kiln. Emphasizing the importance of ensuring complete dryness to prevent cracking, the instructor demonstrates meticulous techniques for smoothing and finishing pieces using tools like sandpaper and sponges. With a focus on handling delicate ceramics with care, the instructor offers practical tips on gripping methods, water bowls for dust control, and rounding edges for optimal glaze application. The comprehensive guide aims to equip viewers with essential skills for successful ceramic firing and creating functional, visually appealing pieces.

Takeaways

👉 Ensure that ceramic pieces are completely dry before placing them in the kiln, as any remaining moisture can cause them to crack or explode during firing.
👐 Handle ceramic pieces with care, supporting them with both hands close to the body, as they are fragile and can easily break.
💦 Use a bowl of water near your work area to capture any dust or debris, which can be harmful if inhaled.
🧽 Refine the surface of pieces by gently rubbing with sandpaper, a sponge, or other tools to remove any imperfections or marks before firing.
🔄 Rotate the piece as you refine it, avoiding over-working any one area, and be careful not to soak it too much, as excess moisture can cause issues.
🔍 Refining serves to remove any defects, fingerprints, or unwanted textures from the surface, unless those are intentionally desired effects.
🍽️ For functional pieces intended for use, consider the end-use and remove any sharp edges or points that could scratch surfaces or cause injury.
🔘 Round off any sharp edges or rims, as glaze tends to pool or run off sharply angled surfaces, leaving them unglazed.
🧠 Approach refining with care, especially as a beginner, until you gain experience and confidence in handling the fragile pieces.
💬 Feel free to ask questions or share suggestions in the comments for further guidance and discussion.

Q & A

What is the importance of ensuring the pieces are completely dry before putting them in the kiln?
-It is crucial to ensure that the pieces are completely dry before placing them in the kiln because if any moisture is present, the pieces will crack or explode during firing. The presence of moisture can also damage nearby pieces and the kiln itself.
What does it mean to 'refine' a piece before firing?
-Refining a piece before firing refers to the process of smoothing out the surface and removing any imperfections, such as small bumps or uneven areas, using tools like sandpaper or sponges. This step is essential to achieve a polished final product.
Why is it important to handle the pieces carefully during the refining process?
-The clay pieces are very fragile before firing, so they need to be handled with great care to prevent them from breaking or cracking. The recommended approach is to hold the pieces close to the body and use both hands for support.
What are some techniques or tools suggested for refining the pieces?
-The video recommends using sandpaper or sponges, gently rubbing the surface of the piece without insisting too much on a single spot. It also suggests using a small basin of water to catch the falling clay dust, which can be harmful if inhaled.
Why is it important to round the edges of the pieces during the refining process?
-Rounding the edges of the pieces is important because when the glaze is applied, it can easily run off sharp or angled edges, resulting in an uneven coating. Rounded edges help the glaze adhere better and provide a smoother finish.
What should be considered when refining pieces intended for functional use?
-For functional pieces, such as those intended for dining or serving, it is important to consider their intended use during the refining process. Any sharp edges or protrusions that could potentially scratch surfaces or cause injury should be smoothed out.
Is it acceptable to leave fingerprints or other markings on the pieces during the refining process?
-According to the video, leaving fingerprints or markings from the refining tools on the pieces is acceptable if the artist desires those effects. These markings do not interfere with the firing process.
What safety precautions are recommended during the refining process?
-Safety precautions recommended in the video include using a basin of water to catch falling clay dust, which can be harmful if inhaled, and wearing a mask if necessary.
Can the refining process be skipped, or is it an essential step before firing?
-The refining process is described as the final step before firing, implying that it is an essential step that should not be skipped. Refining ensures a polished and refined final product.
How does the refining process differ for larger or smaller pieces?
-The video does not explicitly address differences in refining techniques for larger or smaller pieces. However, it does suggest being extra careful when handling very large or very small pieces due to their increased fragility.

Outlines

00:00

🏺 Preparing Clay Pieces for the Kiln

This segment discusses the crucial steps involved in preparing clay pieces before firing them in the kiln. It emphasizes the importance of ensuring pieces are completely dry, as any moisture can cause them to explode during firing, potentially damaging the kiln and other pieces. The video explains the process of 'finishing' the clay objects, which involves smoothing them with sandpaper or a sponge, possibly with water, to remove any imperfections or excess clay. This finishing touch is described as the final step before firing, highlighting the ease of refining clay due to its fine texture. The presenter shares their personal technique for handling fragile clay pieces without breaking them, including keeping them close to the body and using a water basin to minimize dust inhalation. The emphasis is on careful handling and the significance of thorough preparation to ensure a successful firing process.

05:01

🌊 Finishing Techniques and Handling Tips

In this section, the focus shifts to specific finishing techniques and tips for handling clay objects safely. The presenter advises against over-wetting the clay during the finishing process, as it can lead to the formation of air bubbles and subsequent cracking. Techniques such as gently turning the piece and not focusing on one area for too long are recommended to avoid this. Additionally, the video covers the importance of removing defects and smoothing edges to prepare pieces for use, noting that details like fingerprints can be left intentionally if desired. The segment concludes with advice on rounding off edges to ensure that glaze applies evenly during firing, preventing sharp or unglazed areas that could affect the piece's functionality or aesthetic. The presenter encourages viewers to ask questions and share suggestions, reinforcing the educational intent of the video.

Mindmap

Keywords

💡Refining

Refining refers to the process of smoothing and finishing ceramic pieces before firing them in the kiln. It involves removing any imperfections, rough edges, or unwanted marks left from the shaping or molding process. This is crucial because any moisture or imperfections in the piece can cause it to crack or explode during firing. The video emphasizes the importance of refining to ensure that the pieces are completely dry and smooth before placing them in the kiln.

💡Drying

Drying is the process of removing all moisture from the ceramic pieces before firing them in the kiln. The video stresses that the pieces must be completely dry, with no trace of humidity, before firing. If any moisture is present, the pieces will crack or explode during the high-temperature firing process. Proper drying is essential to prevent damage to the pieces and the kiln itself.

💡Kiln

A kiln is a type of oven used to fire or bake ceramic pieces at very high temperatures. The video emphasizes the importance of properly preparing the pieces before placing them in the kiln for firing. If the pieces are not completely dry or have imperfections, they can crack or explode during the firing process, potentially damaging not only the pieces themselves but also the kiln and other pieces nearby.

💡Sanding

Sanding, or using sandpaper or other abrasive materials, is one of the methods mentioned in the video for refining ceramic pieces. It is used to remove imperfections, smooth out rough surfaces, and achieve a desired finish on the pieces before firing. The video advises using a fine-grit sandpaper or sponge to gently sand and refine the pieces without causing damage.

💡Fragility

Fragility refers to the delicate and easily breakable nature of ceramic pieces, especially before they are fired. The video warns viewers about the fragility of unfired clay pieces and advises handling them with care to prevent accidental breakage. It suggests cradling the pieces close to the body and using both hands to support them during the refining process.

💡Dust

Dust refers to the fine particles or powder that can be generated when working with dry clay or during the sanding and refining process. The video recommends using water or wearing a mask to minimize the inhalation of dust, which can be harmful to the lungs. It suggests placing a basin of water near the work area to capture any falling dust particles.

💡Rounding

Rounding refers to the process of smoothing and rounding the edges or corners of ceramic pieces during the refining stage. The video recommends rounding the edges to prevent sharp angles, which can cause glaze to run off or leave exposed areas during firing. Rounded edges also help prevent potential scratches or damage to surfaces when the fired pieces are used for functional purposes.

💡Imperfections

Imperfections refer to any flaws, irregularities, or unwanted marks on the surface of ceramic pieces that need to be removed during the refining process. The video mentions removing imperfections, such as small lumps or uneven surfaces, to achieve a smooth and polished finish before firing. Leaving imperfections can lead to cracking, explosions, or undesirable aesthetic results during the firing process.

💡Glaze

Glaze is a glassy coating applied to ceramic pieces before firing, which melts and fuses to the surface during the high-temperature firing process. The video mentions the importance of rounding edges to ensure proper glaze application and coverage, as sharp angles can cause the glaze to run off or leave exposed areas. Proper glazing is essential for both the aesthetic appearance and functional properties of ceramic pieces.

💡Functional pottery

Functional pottery refers to ceramic pieces that are designed for practical, everyday use, such as dishes, vases, or other household items. The video highlights the importance of refining functional pieces to ensure they are safe and suitable for their intended use. For example, removing sharp edges or pointed imperfections that could potentially scratch surfaces or cause injury during use.

Highlights

Welcome back to my channel, today I want to show how I finish pieces before baking.

It's crucial for pieces to be completely dry before being placed in the oven to prevent explosions.

Exploding pieces can damage the oven and nearby ceramics.

Finishing often involves using sandpaper or a sponge with a bit of water.

The goal is to remove any rough spots or leftover clay.

This finishing step is the final touch before a piece is ready for the oven.

Clay is quite easy to finish due to its fine texture.

I demonstrate my finishing techniques in this video, shot in my studio.

Ceramic is very fragile, so handle it as gently as you would a child.

Use a basin of water underneath your work area to catch dust.

Wear a mask or use water to prevent dust from harming your lungs.

Never grab your ceramic work too harshly to avoid breaking it.

Use both hands to support the piece, keeping it close to your body for stability.

Be extra cautious with finishing, especially if you're a beginner.

Too much water during finishing can create air bubbles and damage the piece.

Always round off edges to ensure even glaze coverage and prevent chipping.

I hope this video is helpful; feel free to ask questions or make suggestions in the comments.