10 steps in the ceramics process

One piece of ceramic no matter small or large has to go through many production processes for up to 10 steps because if even one is missing, the work may turn out to be the opposite of what is expected. Let's check it out if you have missed any of these steps.

1. Design > What is the purpose of producing this workpiece? It is something that a potter must know in order to design a piece to meet the requirement under a creative framework that comes with knowledge of raw materials and production process.
2. Preparation of clay and glaze > Bring raw materials such as clay, rocks, minerals, chemicals to be tested for chemical and physical properties before and after firing. Then put the tested raw materials into the washing and granulation process. Weigh and mix the ingredients according to the formula of each type of clay and glaze required. Then bring it to wet grinding in the machine. Ball mill After grinding, strain through a sieve to the desired fineness. If the formula is a mixture of clay or glaze that requires extra whiteness then it must be brought to a steel separator to obtain clay water and glaze water according to the desired formula.
3. Method of forming a workpiece > There are many methods. Each method must be appropriate and consistent with the characteristics and properties of each type of clay. There are many forming methods whether by hand, by machine, and by means of printing for casting.>The process of drying the product > After the forming is completed, the workpiece must be left to dry completely by air drying or drying with a machine. When it is completely dried some products may need to be polished again or painted under the glaze before firing.
4. Raw firing > Ceramic products that are completely dried and then fired, the sintering temperature range depends on the type of workpiece.
5. Underglaze decoration > Bring a workpiece that has been fired raw then decorate it by writing patterns or shapes using underglaze to apply onto the workpiece
6. Glazing of workpiece > Bring a workpiece that has not been painted under the glaze or the one that has already been painted under the glaze then coated by using pouring method, dipping or spray coating.
7. Glaze fire > Firing to melt the glaze coated on the workpiece to become the same clay as the workpiece no matter for shinny coating or for matte coating on a smooth but hard surface.
8. Glaze > Bring a finished glaze fired workpiece and decorate with overglaze painting such as writing various patterns and the use of decals attached on ceramic mugs
9. Overglaze firing > Bring the workpiece with overglaze painting or the use of decals on the glazed workpiece and fire it again to ensure the paint and decal are attached on the product firmly and do not fall off.