CMW Blog

Welcome to the Ceramic Materials Workshop Blog!

We write informational articles that are meant to be helpful resources to our ceramics community.

Check back often as we try to add new content every week!

Featured Articles

Clay: It’s Not Just Mud! A Beginner’s Guide to This Material

Featured Article

Clay: It’s Not Just Mud! A Beginner’s Guide to This Material

5 reasons you should make your own glazes!

Featured Article

5 reasons you should make your own glazes!

How CMW Makes a Plaster Slab for Testing Clay Bodies

Featured Article

How CMW Makes a Plaster Slab for Testing Clay Bodies

Shino Glazes: What they are and why they are so special!

Featured Article

Shino Glazes: What they are and why they are so special!

¡Ups! Errores Comunes en Cerámica y Cómo Evitarlos

Beginners Guide, Informative

¿Así que estás listo para sumergirte en el maravilloso mundo de la cerámica? ¡Fantástico! Pero espera un minuto antes de ensuciarte las manos. Incluso los alfareros más experimentados cometen errores, pero conocer algunos errores comunes puede ahorrarte frustración (y tal vez algunas vasijas rotas) en el futuro.

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Unmasking the Mystery of Bristol Glazes: A Deep Dive!

Glazes, Informative

Hey glaze enthusiasts! Matt here from Ceramic Materials Workshop, and today we're diving deep into the fascinating world of Bristol glazes. If you've ever wondered how those gorgeous cone 6 glazes get their stunning looks, you're in for a treat!

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Gravity of the Situation: Specific Gravity and Viscosity in Ceramics

Glazes, Informative

Ever struggled with inconsistent glaze application? Or found yourself frustrated by crazing or runs? These common problems often stem from a lack of understanding of two key factors: specific gravity and viscosity. In this post, we'll delve into these essential concepts and share practical tips to help you achieve flawless glaze results every time.

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Clay, Kilns, and Creativity: A Beginner’s Guide to Ceramics!

Beginners Guide, Clay, Informative, Kilns

Ready to dive into the awesome world of ceramics? Grab your apron and let's get started! First things first, you'll need some clay. Think of it like the superhero of the art world, able to transform into almost anything! But just like superheroes have different powers, clay comes in different types.

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Whoopsie-Daisy! Common Mistakes in Ceramics and How to Avoid Them

Beginners Guide, Informative

So you're ready to dive into the wonderful world of ceramics? Fantastic! But hold on a minute before you get your hands dirty. Even the most experienced potters make mistakes, but knowing about some common pitfalls can save you frustration (and maybe a few cracked pots) down the road.

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The Heat is On! A Beginners Guide to Glazing & Firing Pottery

Beginners Guide, Clay, Informative, Kilns

You've sculpted, you've shaped, you've maybe even thrown on the wheel. Now, it's time to transform your clay creations into finished masterpieces! This is where the science of glazing and firing comes in. But before you crank up the heat, let's get a handle on the basics.

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Unleash Your Inner Scientist: The Chemistry of Clay

Beginners Guide, Clay, Informative, Kilns

Ever wondered how that lump of clay transforms into a durable masterpiece? At Ceramic Materials Workshop, we're passionate about uncovering the science behind ceramics.

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Okay, let's be real, glazing can be a total pain in the… kiln sitter. You meticulously craft the perfect piece, only to have your glaze crawl, crack, or do some other funky dance that leaves you questioning your sanity. But don't worry, my friend, I'm here to tell you that it's not you, it's the water (and maybe a little bit you).

Glaze Application: It’s Not You, It’s the Water (and Maybe a Little Bit You)

Glazes, Informative

Okay, let's be real, glazing can be a total pain in the… kiln sitter. You meticulously craft the perfect piece, only to have your glaze crawl, crack, or do some other funky dance that leaves you questioning your sanity. But don't worry, my friend, I'm here to tell you that it's not you, it's the water (and maybe a little bit you).

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Matte vs. Crystalline Glazes: Busting the Myth of the “Matte” Glaze!

Glazes, Informative, Myth Busters

Today, Matt is here as we dive deep into the muddy waters of matte and crystalline glazes. And trust me, things aren't always as they seem in the glaze world!

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Clay: It’s Not Just Mud! A Beginner’s Guide to This Material

Beginners Guide, Clay, Featured Article, Informative

Okay, you've signed up for that pottery class, or maybe you've just got a bag of clay staring at you from the corner of your craft room. Now what? Before you dive headfirst into making amazing pottery, let's get to know the star of the show: clay!

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5 Tips for Applying Ceramic Glazes Like a Pro

Glazes, How Tos, Informative

Glazing is a crucial step in the ceramic-making process, adding color, texture, and a protective layer to your pottery. However, applying glazes can be tricky, especially for beginners. Here are our five tips to help you achieve good glazing results.

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Unveiling Bristol Glazes

Glazes, Informative

Ever dreamed of creating stunning pottery without the need for a high-fire kiln? Bristol glazes are your answer! These glazes can transform your clay creations into works of art at lower temperatures, making them accessible to ceramics of all levels.

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