Saggar Firing Techniques, Tools & Studio Tips (With E-Book by Ed Shears)

Book cover for "Saggar Firing Secrets: A Studio Guide for Ceramic Artists" by Ed Shears. The cover features a saggar-fired ceramic pot with smoky, multicolored surface effects in orange, black, and gray tones, set against a rich brown background.

Curious how potters create those smoky, fire-kissed finishes using saggar firing? In this hands-on guide, I’ll walk you through the exact tools, materials, and techniques I use in my studio to get bold surface effects from saggar-fired pots. You’ll also get a peek inside my latest e-book, Saggar Firing Secrets, now available. Whether you’re firing … Read more

What is Salt Glazing?

Salt glazing is a pottery technique where salt is added to a kiln during firing, creating a distinctive, glassy surface. The salt reacts with silica in the clay, forming a glossy, orange-peel texture, often with color variations. It’s, a fascinating chapter in the story of ceramic artistry, stands out for its distinctive charm. This method, … Read more

Flawless Finishes: Identifying and Eliminating Clay and Glaze Defects

There are a range of issues that can arise during the pottery-making process. Clay and Glaze Defects Pottery often manifests as pinholes, blisters, crazing, shivering, and even color inconsistencies, affecting the final product’s aesthetics and functionality. Recognizing and addressing these imperfections is crucial for producing high-quality ceramics. Clay and Glaze Defects can be a potter’s … Read more

Terra Sigillata: The Magic of Fine Clay Slip and Its Many Uses in Ceramics

Terra Sigillata: The Magic of Fine Clay Slip and Its Many Uses in Ceramics

It’s fine-grained clay slip used in pottery to create a smooth, polished surface on ceramic ware. The name comes from the Latin “terra” (earth) & “sigillata” (sealed), referencing its ability to create a sealed surface. It is made by separating the fine particles of clay from coarser ones through a process of settling & decanting, … Read more