Clay, Glaze, and Firing Basics

Clay & Glaze

100

True or False:

Greenware clay can be recycled and turned back into raw clay. But bisqueware clay CAN'T be recycled.

True

200

List 2 differences between underglaze and glaze.

Food safe vs. Not food safe

Glossy vs. Matte

Glaze Fire vs. Any stage

Drips / changes vs. No drips and consistent

Ingredients

300

What is leather hard clay?

Clay that is still workable but dry enough to hold it’s shape. Feels like stiff, soft leather.

400

What is the difference between the cone labels on clay and the physical cone you put in the kiln?

The label tells you what temperature to fire the clay to. The physical cone tells you if your project is done firing.

500

What is a "dirty foot" and why do you want to avoid it?

A foot or base that has glaze or wax on it. It will fuse the project to the kiln floor.

Kiln & Firing

100

True or False:

Kilns can get over 2,000*F

True

200

List 2 safety rules regarding the kiln

Keep the lid closed, wait till it's cold, don't touch, no flammable items, notify if there is smoke, use the vents.

300

List 3 more kiln rules that have not been mentioned yet.

Keep the lid closed, wait till it's cold, don't touch, no flammable items, notify if there is smoke, use the vents.

400

Why do kilns need vents?

To draw out both the heat and fumes

500

What are the names of the 2 different kinds of firings we will use the kiln for. Check your "Firing Process" notes.

Bisque Fire and Glaze Fire

Shuffled Questions

100

What does bone dry clay mean?

The clay is completely dry with no moisture.

200

There are 2 kinds of clay that CANNOT go into the slip bucket because they can't break down into raw clay. What are they?

Bisqueware and Glazeware

300

Why is glaze food safe and waterproof after it is fired?

It turns into a glass coating or sealant.

400

What's the name of the ingredient in clay that requires you to use an air filter?

Silica

500

List the stages of the firing process in order from beginning to end.

1- Greenware

2- Bisque Fire

3- Bisqueware

4- Glaze fire

5- Glazeware

Building With Clay

100

What is the first thing you do with your clay before starting your projects?

Wedge the clay

200

Describe the step-by-step process of making a pinch pot after wedging.

Form a ball. Make a hole with your thumb. Create an opening with your hands by pinching.

300

What do you call clay that has been rolled out flat?

Slab

400

What 2 things can cause your project to explode or crack in the kiln?

Air bubbles and moisture

500

If you have hollow spaces in your project, you need to also include __________________.

Air holes