Synopses & Reviews
At one time or another, every potter gets frustrated at the wheel. Whether struggling to center the clay or attach a handle with precision, potters of all levels crave advice and answers, and world-renowned ceramicist and YouTube sensation Simon Leach has plenty to give. In S
imon Leachand#8217;s Pottery Handbookand#151;a book-and-DVD packageand#151;he presents clear tutorials and loads of original instruction on all of the core techniques, from studio setup to basic throwing, to applying appendages, trimming, glazing, and firing. For each technique, detailed step-by-step photography captures the subtle, intricate movements that typically fly by too fast to be learned when watching a video lesson; callouts then lead readers to the relevant video on the DVD so they can see the technique demonstrated in real timeand#151;an ideal combination that makes learning from the master easy.
Praise for Simon Leach's Pottery Handbook:
and#147;A definitive guide for every step of pottery making.and#8221;and#160;and#151;Publishers Weekly
and#147;Third-generation potter Leach, with technical and photographic assistance from Bruce Dehnert and Jared Flood, capitalizes on his celebrity with an amazingly detailed, step-by-step text for all major processes in ceramics. The in-depth perspective starts with his directions for making simple tools (a wire tool and a sponge stick) and is bolstered by charts and information-packed sidebars (e.g., for removing air bubbles and troubleshooting your first pull). Every topic that novices must master is covered, such as working basic shapes (cylinder and variations dishes) trimming, decorating and glazing, and firing.and#8221; and#151;Booklistand#160;
and#147;This book has some of the most gorgeous photography I've seenand#133;and#8221;and#160;and#151;Susan B. Anderson blog
and#147;Among how-to books, this volume stands out. This gem is as carefully honed as the skills it seeks to share.and#8221; and#151;American Craft
and#147;For those of us who learn best with a combo of text and demonstrations, Simon Leachand#8217;s new book is the perfect fit.and#8221; and#151;Ceramics Monthly
and#160;
Synopsis
Both amateur and professional potters constantly seek time-saving tips, trade secrets, and new technical knowledge--which makes this handsomely illustrated book exactly what they're looking for! Author Jacqui Atkin describes the full range of available clays and their individual qualities, as well as necessary tools and equipment. She presents easy-to-follow directions for fashioning pottery, and augments her instruction with captioned, step-by-step photos and illustrations. Topics explained in detail cover--
Developing design concepts, from sketch pad to finished piece Slabbing, pinching, coiling, throwing, turning, and mold-making, using various clays Creating surface decoration, with attention to colors, textures, and glazing
Helpful sidebar features include troubleshooting tips with solutions to problems that often arise in the process of making pottery. Here is a book that belongs on the reference shelf of every serious potter. Approximately 450 color illustrations.
Synopsis
(back cover)
The indispensable compendium of essential knowledge and troubleshooting tips
Just like having an expert on call 24 hours
a day with answers to any ceramic
questions or dilemmas you might have
Step-by-step photographs, diagrams, and clear instructions will guide you through each stage of your work, or you can look up details for help with a particular problem. Discover how to improvise tools using kitchen implements, find a shortcut to rolling faultless coils, build the perfect spout, and learn a foolproof method for removing a vessel from the wheel without distorting it. Every section features "try it" and "fix it" panels, suggesting ways to practice or develop skills and avoid common errors.
Jacqui Atkin is a professional studio ceramicist who teaches pottery and occupational therapy in various colleges in the U.K. She now runs private courses in low-fire techniques, including smoke-firing and Raku, from her home in rural Shropshire. Jacqui has contributed to many books as a project maker and gallery artist and is the author of Handbuilt Pottery Techniques Revealed, Pottery Basics, and The Tile Artist's Motif Bible.
About the Author
Simon Leach is an internationally celebrated third-generation ceramicist, descended from the renowned Leach family of Cornwall, England. He can be seen online, demystifying techniques at his potterand#8217;s wheel in his more than 800 YouTube videos (simonleachpottery.com). He also teaches hands-on workshops throughout the country. He lives in Williamsburg, Pennsylvania. Bruce Dehnert is the head of the ceramics program at Peters Valley Craft Center in New Jersey.