The Journey of Clay
From Raw Material to Finished Piece
At Chester River Pottery, every piece carries a story, a tale of transformation that begins with raw, humble clay and ends as a functional, beautiful work of art. The clay journey involves patience, skill, and a little magic. Join us as we walk through the steps that bring our pottery to life, using the image above to glimpse our process.
Sourcing the Clay
The journey begins with selecting the correct type of clay. We work with stoneware, porcelain, or earthenware, depending on the desired outcome. Each type has unique characteristics:
- Stoneware: Durable and perfect for functional pieces like mugs and bowls.
- Porcelain: Known for its smooth, fine texture and translucent quality.
- Earthenware: A versatile option with a warm, rustic finish.
At Chester River Pottery, we source high-quality clay that forms the foundation of our creations.
Wedging: Preparing the Clay
It needs to be prepared before the clay hits the wheel or slab table. Wedging kneads the clay to remove air bubbles and ensure a consistent texture. This step is crucial for preventing cracks or weak spots during the firing process.
Imagine the hands-on care each piece receives from the start, a connection between maker and material.
Shaping: Bringing Ideas to Life
Once prepped, the clay is ready to be shaped. There are multiple techniques to create a piece:
- Throwing on the Wheel: The iconic pottery wheel allows us to craft symmetrical, round forms like bowls, vases, and mugs.
- Hand-Building: A more tactile method involving pinching, coiling, or slab construction to create unique, organic shapes.
As the clay takes shape, the potter’s vision begins to emerge. This is where artistry and skill truly shine.
Drying: The First Transformation
After shaping, the piece enters the drying phase. This step allows the clay to become leather-hard, firm enough to refine details but not fully dry. Handles are attached, edges smoothed, and final adjustments made.
Patience is key here, as uneven drying can lead to cracks.
Bisque Firing: Setting the Stage
Once the clay is fully dry, it’s time for the first firing, known as bisque firing. The kiln reaches temperatures of up to 1,900°F, transforming the fragile clay into a hardened, porous state. This step prepares the piece for glazing while making it more durable to handle.
Opening the kiln after a bisque firing is always exciting it’s the first glimpse of what the piece will become.
Glazing: Adding Color and Texture
Glazing is where the magic truly happens. We carefully apply glazes by dipping, brushing, or spraying. The glazes add color and texture and seal the piece, making it food-safe and functional.
Our glazes are carefully selected at Chester River Pottery, ensuring each piece has a unique finish. The image above captures a moment in this creative stage a testament to the artistry involved.
Final Firing: The Transformation
The glazed pieces are then returned to the kiln for the final firing, often reaching temperatures over 2,200°F. This step vitrifies the clay, making it a non-porous, durable material. The glazes melt and fuse to the surface, revealing their final colors and textures.
Opening the kiln after the final firing is like unwrapping a gift. Each piece is unique, and there are surprises in every batch.
Finishing Touches
After cooling, each piece is inspected and, if needed, sanded or polished to ensure a smooth finish. Handles are tested for comfort, and every surface is checked for quality. Only then does a piece earn its place in our studio.
The Heart of Chester River Pottery
The journey of clay is a metaphor for transformation, patience, and creativity. At Chester River Pottery, every mug, vase, and bowl tells a story of its creation, the hands that shaped it, and the people who will cherish it.
Visit our studio to see these stories come to life and bring a piece of the journey home. Please join our email list to continue the journey.