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Low-firing and Burnishing

Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Low-firing and Burnishing by Sumi von Dassow is an essential guide to firing and finishing pottery at low temperatures without the use of glazes or electric kilns. The book covers traditional and contemporary techniques such as slip application, burnishing, terra sigillata, smoke-firing, pit-firing, saggar firing, and raku. Many of these methods can be performed outdoors using simple setups like dustbins, earth pits, or bonfires, making it accessible and affordable for potters with limited resources. The guide is richly illustrated with contemporary works, providing inspiration and clear, step-by-step instructions suitable for potters of all levels, from beginners to experienced artists.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book is ideal for potters and ceramics enthusiasts of all skill levels who are interested in exploring natural finishing methods and affordable firing techniques without electric kilns. It's especially suited to those who appreciate hands-on, traditional craft approaches and are looking for clear, illustrated instructions to develop or expand their pottery skills.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

This book covers techniques of firing and finishing at low temperature
without using glazes. A step-by-step practical approach and
beginner's guide, which includes
burnishing, terra sigillata, smoke-firing, pit-firing, saggar firing
and raku techniques.

An essential guide to low firing and producing natural finishes without using glazes.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

An essential guide to low firing and producing natural finishes without using glazes.

Low-firing and Burnishing explores the techniques of firing and finishing at low temperature without using glazes or electric kilns. Many ancient cultures and contemporary potters use methods of low firing, adding slips and burnishing pieces to create a more natural finish. As these techniques can be achieved without a kiln, for example, using old dustbins, pits dug out of the earth, or bonfires, it means that providing you have some outdoor space, the process can be done on a low budget.

With many illustrations of beautiful work by contemporary makers for inspiration, this step-by-step guide to low firing and natural finishes is suitable for potters of all levels, including beginners. Get started in no time with practical approaches to burnishing, terra sigillata, smoke-firing, pit-firing, saggar firing and raku techniques.

Series: Ceramics Handbooks

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  • Low-firing and Burnishing
    An essential guide to low firing and producing natural finishes without using glazes. Low-firing and Burnishing explores the techniques of firing and finishing at low temperature without using glazes or electric kilns. Many ancient cultures and contemporary potters use methods of low firing, adding slips and burnishing pieces to create a more natural finish. As these techniques can be achieved...
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  • Lustre
    A comprehensive guide with recipes for making your own lustres and techniques for applying and firing them. A lustre is a thin layer of metal deposited onto the surface of the pot during firing, producing a lustrous surface. Lustres are highly sought after, creating fabulous surfaces that can captivate and enchant. They can appear in colours such as golds, coppers,...
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Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Praised by sources such as the Kent Potters newsletter and London Potters, this book is regarded as a must-have not only for beginners but also for experienced potters, particularly due to its excellent photographs and practical guidance. Reviewers highlight its clear presentation, helpful techniques, and useful reference value for anyone interested in burnishing and low-fired pottery finishes.

Book Hero reading reviews

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781912217588

Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 05 April 2018

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Herbert Press Ltd

Illustration: 100 colour illustrations

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 12.0mm

Width: 232.0mm

Height: 156.0mm

Weight: 300g

Pages: 112

About the Author

Sumi von Dassow makes burnished pottery, teaches at a centre for traditional arts and runs occasional pit-firing workshops. She contributes articles for Ceramics Monthly and Pottery Making Illustrated. Sumi is also the author of Barrel, Pit and Saggar Firing and Electric Kiln Pottery.

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