Product Description
A comprehensive, highly illustrated guide to handbuilt ceramic techniques as well as an informative overview of the contemporary ceramics scene. For amateur and professional potters alike, featuring more than 200 color photos. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

A great book for beginning to intermediate ceramists.
One can never buy all the books for a hobby but if you can afford just one book on handbuilding techniques, it would be for the book; THE ART OF HANDBUILT CERAMICS.

It has lots of pictures, instructions and inspiration on how to work your clay.It's worth every penny.My only problem is that I can't share it with other ceramists.....not being sure that they'd return the great book once they've read it.

Great handbuilding book
Loved this book. It has nice pictures and good information. I am glad I have it in my collection.

Aimed at beginners
The book was geared toward those without much working knowledge of handbuilding. The photos were very nice, and included various different ways of approaching handbuilding, so could serve to inspire someone try new approaches. ... Read more

Product Description
Prized by collectors worldwide, Oaxacan crafts are among the most popular forms of folk art today.This celebration of Mexican ceramics combines a gallery of more than one hundred stunning photographs with an insightful text that illuminates the artistry and the artists--all of whom are women.The fanciful, brightly colored works spring from the rich imaginations of rural women drawing on enduring religion, mythology, and thmes from the their everyday lives.Oaxacan Ceramics tells the remarkable story of six of the most renowned artisans who live and work in villages near the city of Oaxaca.Their exuberant, whimisical creations range from the fantastic to the religious, including mermaids, angels, Zapotec creatures, figures of Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo, vases, candle holders, and decorative plates-all finely crafted and distinctly colored.Oaxacan Ceramics paints and extraordinary portraitof a vibrant culture and its art. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Oaxaca
Great pictures and good details.I have visited with these ladies (artists) and they are truly exceptional in the work and very warm to their guests.

Stunning photos
I know little about Oaxacan ceramics but was immediately drawn to this book by the unbelievably beautiful photos. many of the shots are done outside using natural lighting and it gives the pieces a lifelike feel that I find wonderful. And the creativity of the pieces themselves! A wonderful introduction to one type of Mexicancraft.

One of my favourite ceramic books
This is a fantastically colourful & inspiring book...and of the many, many ceramic books I own this is definitely in my Top 5. Lots of beautiful & detailed photos and interesting text. The only downside is that there isn't really any "how to" section in the book to show you how to make the wonderful folk art featured.

A Beautiful Book
I love this book.I have been to Oaxaca several times and have visited most of the potters in the book.On my last trip, I asked each of the women to sign my book near her picture.This is now one of my most treasured posessions along with my memories of Oaxaca. The photographs are great and the stories are beautiful.

Great guide to Atzompa and Ocotlán ceramics...
Born and raised in México and having a deep appreciation of its diverse and rich folk arts traditions, and guided by the reviews, I bought this book. What others say is true- this softbound book is lavishly illustrated and is a wonderful introduction to the contemporary ceramics covered, as well as the six women potters dealt with. Thise with a love of Oaxacan ceramics will likely love this book as well.

There is but one, very significant problem: the title is, to me, completely misleading. The book actually covers two villages- Octolán de Morelos, and the reigning family of potters, as well as Santa María Atzompa and two of the many potters who work there. San Bartolo Coyotepec and the creator of world-renown black pottery, Doña Rosa Real de Nieto, and her descendants, for example, have no coverage in this book, nor do older more traditional forms.

Oaxaca is an incredibly beutiful state, with many traditions and crafts. This book covers a small fraction of them- and in my opinion misleads with a title implying it covers all the ceramics of Oaxaca. With that caveat, I highly recommend (and give a restrained five stars to) this book, within the scope of its limitations. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (3)

Ceramics WorkBook
"Making Ceramic Sculpture Techniques" is an excellent "
how to" book for the beginning student.It provides you with basic good information about clay and how to different sculptures using different techniques.It is a good starting point.

Sculptors in other media will be inspired
As a sculpture student who has worked primarily in wood and plaster, I wasn't interested in this book as much for technique as for a photo gallery of contemporary sculpture.I was blown away.I will be taking ceramics in the future, and now I can hardly wait to get my hands on clay; I was fascinated by the different styles possible in this medium.Those coming from a ceramics background will have an entirely different appreciation for this book (I don't know anything about the techniques introduced, but the author made them seem very 'do-able').At any rate, it's a wonderful book to peruse, and stimulate that creative muse.

Making Ceramic Sculpture
A beautiful ceramic sculpture book... this book deals with handbuilding sculpture work.It is both for learning and looking, has several step by step projects you can follow along with and a gallery full of wonderful images in the back half of the book. There is also good information on finishing your ceramic work, and even talks about alternative finishes on clay such as oil paints, acrylics and experimenting with your finishes. ... Read more

Product Description
The methods, materials and aesthetic appreciation of Japanese wood firing are explained in exquisite detail in Japanese Wood-Fired Ceramics. This ancient technique is a favorite among ceramic artists and instructors around the world, and this superior resource offers artists valuable insight into this nearly 1,000-year-old tradition.

Techniques, traditionally passed on through apprenticeships that last nearly a decade, are explained in detailed instructions, including more than 700 illustrations and color photos. The complexities of loading and firing a wood kiln, unique glazes and firing techniques used to obtain surface effects, and experimental approaches are discussed in this reference. This optimum resource offers artists an additional bonus with instructions for creating two kilns, including the authors' famous Dancing Fire Wood Kiln.

-Details of ancient Japanese wood-firing methods are covered

-Features 700+ color photos to guide artists in learning methods

-Directions for building two kiln offers artists opportunities to build their own ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

very disappointing purchase
I have a wheel, and I greatly admire traditional Japanese pottery. Looking for inspiration, I inferred from the title and the information that there are over 700 photos that the book would surely offer samples of pottery from different periods and locations. Wrong. While there are indeed hundreds of photos, all of the featured fired ceramics were made by the authors. Both are capable potters who make pots that spring from Japanese tradition, and many of Kusakabe's are very nice, but Lancet features a great deal of sculptural handbuilding (including lots of human torsos, most with windows in them, and a goat udder pitcher) that some will perhaps find interesting, but their only connection to Japanese ceramics seems to me to be that they have been wood-fired. If you are interested in the more arcane aspects of Japanese wood-fired kiln effects, this is your book. There are numerous photos of different surface effects, along with their Japanese names. A great deal of the book is devoted to kiln construction, but if you are interested in building one, you might find Fred Olsen's The Kiln Book a better starting point.

needs more variety
A more appropriate title for this book might be: "Wood-firing by Marc Lancet and Masakazu Kusakabe" as it is mainly about them.Although it is thorough and informative, I was disappointed to see the narrow spectrum of artists represented in it.

Great Book!!!
This book covers most everything I wanted to know about Japanese Wood-Fired Ceramics. The only area I wish it had was more pictures of finished pieces. Technique and building kilns it covered thoroughly.

Useful and for the advanced
I found this book a useful tool in thinking about the way I woodfire.If a person is not a woodfire potter or avid collector of woodfired work it may not be for you.The is definately not a casual read.

A Must for Wood-fire Enthusiasts
First saw this book at the wood-fire conference held in Flagstaff, AZ in Oct,2006. The coauthor Marc Lancet delivered an address that was drawn in large measure from the book. After Jack Troy's classic on wood-fire this book sets a new standard. The wide variety of wood-fire surface effects are connected to the japanese names for those effects and what causes them. The sections covering plans for wood-fire kilns is excellent. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (1)

Good Reference
I found this to be a good reference book providing information about a wide array of ceramic topics. It does not dig deeply into subject matters but gives enough info to answer questions and help get you started. Also great background info on things from clay to historical topics ... Read more

Product Description
This classic handbook introduces students to the fundamentals of the ceramic arts, beginning with a comprehensive history of ceramic materials, techniques, and practices up to the present day and then moving to a detailed presentation of ceramic techniques from the most basic to the complex. This new edition has been thoroughly updated throughout to incorporate the many new resources and materials available to ceramists as well as the most current techniques and technical and safety information. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Like watching paint dry

Had to have been written by someone who writes text books. For a tech manual it is extremely boring. Has the basics from beginning to end. Recipes for glazes are dated as most are lead based, but it's an old book. I paid .18 cents for and it was worth that. My other books I purchased were newer and a better investment. I find it hard to believe that the asking price for the newest version of this book would worth it. Most of the information I was looking for was nothing more than a general overview.
If you get this book don't spend a bunch on it.....it's Ok at best
The Practical Potter..Josie Warshawwas not a better overview, but it was a more interesting read, and what is not contained in the book can be looked up on the web.
After the reviews I had seen on this book. I am very disappointed. There are better books available, look around.

Pottery
Great condition and most helpful for my university pottery class. No reason to purchase university book store prices when you can find your books here.

Great Book for students
I use this book with my beginning students. It is rare that I read a ceramics book and find no significant problems. It is well written and full of information and good illustrations. I recommend it highly.

Epiphany and resurrection of an venerable important text
I have 3 (including editions 1 & 5) of this ground breaking text by Glen C Nelson. It seems the driving force behind this new and spectacular presentation of edition 6 is Richard Burkett. His fingerprints are all over the glaze section among others. This volume is a MUST HAVE AT ALL COSTS for any novice and master potter alike. I now have a new "Bible" for my studio.Special thanks to Glen Nelson who has inspired millions of us with his dynamite dedication to teaching and setting a stellar height of perfection to our craft.He is a living legend in my mind and soul.

Wow!
One of my all-time favorite references. I really love this book. It was a "suggested reading" in my pottery class, and I am very glad I purchased it. I'm an artist that is just as much about researching and understanding as I am about the actual doing and studio side of my work. This book is a treat and I highly recommend it. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (25)

High Fire Glazes
Excellent book that clearly explains glazing chemistry and use in a well-written format with supportive pictures.

great reference book
If I had only had one book on this subject this would be it.I have been working with high fire glazes for over thirty years and this is the most comprehensive,thourogh,and well researched book I have come across. I highly recommend this book.

Best book of it's kind
You can stop looking - this is the best ^10 glaze book out there.I have been a potter for over thirty years and tested many glazes.This is the most organized and user friendly information around.It is arranged by color in a way that allows you to easily see the difference between similar recipes. Unless you want to start form scratch (which I have no desire to do)this is where to look.You may need to adjust a little, as "glazes don't travel well" because of differences in water, chemicals, clay body and firing but this is a good place to start. I have given this book to at least six other potters!

A must for all 'Cone 10 firing potters'


You will not only enjoy the great photos, but the simple layout of formulas
makes your life easier!

great reference
I haven't read the entire book yet. I am a beginning pottery student and I am finding the book to be an excellent reference for learning more about different types of glazes. I am starting to understand more about how to create my own glazes using a basic glaze formula and altering it depending on what I want the glaze to do. The book has probably about a hundred (I could be a bit off) glaze recipes. I have tried several of them with success. I think the importance of this book is not the recipes but the discussions that go with them, that allow for understanding of how to create glazes. The book also discusses the fire cycle (just a little bit) in relation to different glazes. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

perfect condition, fast delivery, good price. couldn't be better.
perfect condition, fast delivery, good price. couldn't be better.
This guy sent the book by overnight delivery.
Thank you so much for your excellent service.

Comprehensive, but lacking rigor
The book is a comprehensive encyclopaedia of ceramics. However, the authors repeatedly fumble the physics (and seem blind to the fact the units are off in many cases).

Being a physics student, I'm picky about electricity and magnetism, and how the concepts are developed. This isn't too much of a problem for Kingery et al because they flat out fail to develop the material to an acceptable level (I don't think that was one of their goals with the book). But it did bother me that the theory of magnetic properties of materials is developed *by analogy* to the theory of electrical properties. Sure - there is a parallel, and many of the equations have identical forms. But magnetism and electricity are distinct concepts, and nothing in Physics would allow you to guess their theories to parallel each other so well until *after* you've learned their theory the appropriate way.

In addition the later sections on ceramic properties (thermal, electrical, magnetic, optical) read like an index of equations without the insight that comes from a proper development of where they come. So be sure to have a good text on E&M available.

I was very pleased with the breadth of the text, but disappointed with the development theory at certain points in the book. It is not a *bad* book, but I can't say it's a book I have great confidence in as a reference.

The ceramics "Bible" -- An excellent treatment of the subject
This is an incredibly detailed, long and well-written text on ceramics that all materials scientists should read. Kingery covers all the basic aspects of ceramics, from structure to defects, thermodynamics to phase transformations. He then covers in depth each property, including heat transfer, diffusivity, magnetic, electrical, optical, mechanical properties, and much more. The text also discusses processing techniques and the chemistry behind the design of the materials. This is a fantastic and thorough text well worth the investment.

The book of ceramics
Introductions to ceramics by Kingery is the bible for ceramists. This book is more focused on the ceramic basic science and, apparently, it is a poor book for applications. However, Kyngery et al. teaches us the basic science we all need to know to be able to work on ceramics. It is difficult to work on ceramics if the basic knowledge taught by this book is unknown.

Ages like fine wine!
Having received a PhD in Materials Science and Engineering, I have read most, if not all, of the required reading at the graduate and undergraduate levels.This book is one of a few that remain on my bookshelf and that I continually refer to.

The beauty of this book is that despite its age (published 1976), it remains relevant and represents a rare classic.Even though the price tag is hefty, it is well worth the investment.It is hugely comprehensive and well written.

This is a must-have for anyone in the Materials field. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (21)

500 Figures in Clay
A superb book, with 500 pictures of fabulous ceramic sculpture,
and no text. I first took this book out of the library,several times.I finally bought it ! I realized I'd need months, maybe years, to study and be inspired by the artwork.

Great Inspiration
The 500 series books are great and this stands up well with the others.Lots of inspirational ideas to get the creative juices flowing.I use this book a lot for helping my students gain an idea of what style of work they like and want to make themselves.

amazing!
this book elevates the art of ceramics. so interesting to study the subject matter and techniques.

imagination soars
This is one of the Lark Books on ceramics that I will return to over and over. The book covers such a wide range of possibilities. The selections are fresh and evocative. The photography is artful. I guess, since I am a human being, one of my favorite subjects is the human body. I am endlessly fascinated with how expressive and analytic these figure studies are.

Love this series!
I love this series from Lark! It provides me with lots of inspiration and it is a wonderful tool to learn new artists and their work. I have almost the whole series! ... Read more

Product Description
E. Lockhart’s spot-on dialogue and descriptions of painfully but hilariously relatable situations make this young adult novel an addictive read.
 
Fifteen-year-old Ruby has had a rough ten days. During that time she: 
 
   * lost her boyfriend (#13 on the list) 
   * lost her best friend (Kim)
   * lost all her other friends (Nora, Cricket)
   * did something suspicious with a boy (#10) 
   * did something advanced with a boy (#15)
   * had an argument with a boy (#14)
   * had a panic attack
   * lost a lacrosse game (she's the goalie)
   * failed a math test (she'll make it up)
   * hurt Meghan's feelings (even though they aren't really friends)
   * became a social outcast (no one to sit with at lunch)
   * had graffiti written about her in the girls' bathroom (who knows what was in the
   boys'!?!)

But don't worry—Ruby lives to tell the tale. And make more lists. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (51)

I wish this book was published when I was 15.
From my review at goodreads.com: I looked through the other reviews, wondering why this book got only 3.7 stars. It deserves at least a 4.00, I believe (I'm rating it 5). The people who rated it below 4 stars just didn't *get* the book! I agree the ending, though not bad, could have been better but I thought the story tied up neatly. What's more, this story is about the emotional *journey* of a teenage girl. It's not a love story! And the way the journey was told is clever, too.

At first I was afraid this would be a chick-lit Sophie Kinsella-like vapid read, but happily, I was wrong. Ruby Oliver isn't an stupid, but she's young and makes mistakes. It reads like real life. It's funny, it's sad, it's like how you remembered High School. I wish this book had been published when I was teen! I'm sure I would've regarded Ruby as true comrade. Though I didn't experience being in cliques and having boyfriends in High School, a lot of Ruby's thoughts and feelings ring true. I felt like I was having a conversation about boys and feelings to a great girl friend.

The footnotes took a bit of time to get used to, but they're my favorite parts of the book. Very interesting and original device that doesn't seem gimmicky at all. I love how naturally the story flows from Ruby's POV. I love how I empathized with her all the way. (I think it's the most I've ever empathized with a novel, barring the manga 'Lovely Complex'). I could totally understand where she was coming from. I'm usually not excited with first person narrators, but this story definitely shines through with its narrator.

It was a quick and enjoyable read. I had to stop myself from turning pages or I would've finished the book in one sitting!

This is a book I'd let my (future, unborn) daughter read.

Different cover?
I read this book years ago, and now that my daughter is a pre-teen, I thought it would be perfect for her.On the site, it's got the white cover with the ceramic frog, but the actual book cover I got was different, it had a picture of a girl on it.It's a clever cover, but I was surprised to see it instead of the frog.

Anyhow, the book is awesome, it demonstrates how different types of boy/girl relationships, that there is more than one way to care for a boy.I had read it to review for a book report, and I think it was one of the best reads I've had in a long while.I would reccommend it for anyone, but mainly girls 10 and up, depending on their reading skills and interest.

Stupidest Book ever!
This book was a HUGE disappointment. After reading the whole thing, I felt robbed of a good hour and a half of my life. The plot was pathetic, Ruby was an idiot, and the story never went anywhere. If there was a ever a book that should be burned-you really shouldn't burn books- it would be this one, hands down.

fun, light, and easy to relate to
in a sentence or so: Lia's got a bad case of panic attacks. it could be because her friends aren't talking to her. or because she inadvertently gained a reputation as a slut.or it could be because her boyfriend (who she was totally in love with) dumped her for her best friend...

Lia starts going to see a therapist, after her first panic attack in front of her parents (actually, her third panic attack total).she'd been trying to keep her life together as best as she could. but really, her life has been a lot to handle lately.Lia and Kim were best friends for years, and then all of the sudden, that's gone. her friendship with her other friends - gone. her social status - gone. not just unpopular, but a total leper. that's thanks to Lia's therapist, who suggested she make a boyfriend list, to try to get at the root of her panic attacks. although, it was Lia's fault to throw away the list (which weren't all boyfriends, by the way) that had her name on it where anyone could grab it and make a zillion xerox copies of it.

we get an analysis of Lia's actions through therapy, which allows us to see her grow.each chapter is a title of a different 'boyfriend', and so we get some back story along with some current plot development at the same time. the multiple timelines work seamlessly, as if you're having a conversation with a friend.the footnotes were a fun break from the narrative and supports the familiarity between Lia and the reader.you feel like you really know her, and what she's about.

i appreciated the lack of a fairy tale ending, however abrupt.this was light, easy to relate to, and had some fun (and good) advice about friends, relationships, and life. a fun and light read i'd recommend to girls, for sure.

fave quote: "It's all a lie. When you hate someone you used to love, and you think he's done something awful--he probably has. You're not going to love him again. He's not going to apologize, or come back to you. He probably doesn't ever think about you at all, because he's too busy thinking about someone else. Face it. There's not going to be a happy ending...at least not with this hero." (50 | 174 Nook edition)

fix er up: the ending came all of the sudden for me - partially because i'm using an e-reader (and couldn't really tell when the end of the book was) and partially because the resolution was not what i expected at all and left me wanting more closure.

title: The boyfriend list
author: E. Lockhart
genre: Chick Lit, Drama

The Boyfriend List
The Boyfriend list was pretty good to read. I would not suggest it to middle schoolers or fith graders. The book is about a girl whos life is in shambles, after her boyfreind broke up with her to go out with her best freind. Now nobody will talk to her and she has overly protective parents. I cant tell wether she is telling the story to the therepest or to us. She ends the story with a mildy happy ending and you can tell they want you to read the second and third book. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (6)

Inspirational for Clay Artists
Bought this as a gift for my gentleman friend who is an architecural redesigner, remodeler, everything man! I enjoyed it too, I am a potter and we have many more ideas!

This book changed the way I do art
It really did. I was looking for answers to built a big commission on ceramics. After a lot of research I finally got this book, it was so didactic I was able to build 2 monumental projects just by following the well written parts and the photos. After I found the author in the web and took his workshop, right now he is in Guatemala at my studio giving a workshop to artists in my country.
I also work in Ceramic Sculpture and his techniques work for that to. I just did 18 big ceramic sculptures for a personal exhibition with the same knowledge.
He really knows what he is talking about when you want to know what BIG Ceramics work wants to be done.
I you want to expand your horizon in ceramics this is a book for you.

Great for large scale ceramic projects
I usually do small works; handbuilt and wheelthrown pieces and tiles.It was quite eye-opening to read this book on large scale projects.It is written in a very clear manner, with wonderful pictures.

I only fault himon his tile making techniques, which could be better, but hey, who cares? His expertise lies elsewhere. He has obviously worked out the besttechniques for large ceramic projects.

I like the way the book isorganized.The chapters are very sequentially logical (to me).
Chapter1: Tools and Equipment
Chapter 2: Building and DecoratingTechniques
Chapter 3: Sectioning, Drying, Glazing and Firing
Chapter 4: Installation
Chapter 5: The Projects
Chapter 6:Gallery

The Projects chapter reiterates some of the information inprevious chapters, but this time applied to a particular project.This isfine with me, since reiteration is a good teaching technique. The Gallerychapter is quite inspirational!There are lots of pictures ofinstallations done not only by Peter, but also other artists.

Makes mewant to try some architectural ceramics!

The BEST!
I had the wonderful experience of apprenticing for Peter and finished soon after we did the photoshoot for the book. I have to say, Peter and his brother John both went through great lengths to make sure the book wouldhave as much practical information in it as possible. The only thing betterthan the book is one of Peter's workshops. But with the book, all of theinformation that Peter gives is easy to look over time and time again. Thepictures are great! As soon as you start making and install a floor, sink,fireplace and so on I'm sure that you'll be hooked. You'll realize that itis possible to do on your own or with a friend. You'll also see andunderstand how much farther you can push clay than you had ever expected.Plus, above all, it's alot of fun!

Inspiring
The pictures are fantastic! For those of you who are tired of tiny pots, this is the book.

I'm a student and as such I'm very new to the game.This book gave me not only inspiration but enough detailed information toallow me to plan my bathroom sink. The plans include the sink, tile, andfollowing the example in the book, the plans for the forms I need to makeso that the pieces will be shaped correctly. I hope to create and fire thepieces early next year. ... Read more

Product Description
Introduces the fundamentals of ceramics, with an emphasis on solid-state physics and chemistry. Deals with the science of sintering and microstructural development. Softcover. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Great condition, Timely Fashion
The book was in great condition.They said it would be mailed quicker, but I guess it came within a reasonable time.

Barsoum's text
Barsoum's text, "Fundamentals of Ceramics", is the best theoretical treatment of materials science that I am familiar with. He provides in-depth coverage of many mat-sci principles and derivations, from the elementary to the advanced. Caveat emptor, however, as there are also many mistakes in this book. Barsoum would do a great service to the mat-sci community by updating this text and publishing a new edition that corrects the mistakes and provides a more thorough explanation of experimental principles to compliment his theoretical information.

Excellent broad based intro text
This text is very clearly written, and an absolute must as a reference for the fundamentals of ceramics.The text ties basic priciples of physics to the structure and behavior of ceramics.The text is ideal for late undergrad, early graduate studies - and is also perfect for scientists and engineers without a background in Materials Engineering *because* it draws on basic physics to clearly cover the topic.Especially useful are the numerous examples within the chapters to highlight important ideas, and the last six chapters - which give important infrmation on electrical, optical, and mechanical properties of ceramics.

No Books in the Field Compare
Dr. Barsoum has covered all the bases in this well thought out and beautifully organized book! The author makes the field of ceramics interesting even to people new to the field. This book was used in a courseI took, and I will not sell it because it is such an authoritativereference source. There are no other books that compare to Fundamentals ofCeramics.

Best Ceramics text on the market.
I learned more about ceramics engineering from this book than I did about women from Wilt Chamberlain (Not Dr. J, as he was a pure gentleman).The book is a stand-alone guide to ceramics and their related properties, so comprehensive it could be entitled "Non-Metals and Their Physics."Highly recommended for anyone who actually wants to learn. ... Read more

Product Description
About This Book:Easy to learn, low in cost, and requiring only minimal special equipment, painting ceramics is an increasingly popular way to recycle and redesign plain ceramics and china. Featuring a wide variety of step-by-step projects, this exciting new book is packed with original, stylish ideas using readily available paints in a variety of exciting colors. Painting Ceramics includes both contemporary and traditional designs, plus some faux paint effects.
Highlights:

Produced in association with Pebeo, brand-leading producers of ceramic paints with extensive international network of distributors.

Easy to copy or trace templates provided for all projects.

Projects for all levels of ability, including easy starter pieces.

Variety of projects, styles, and sizes-something for everyone!

Features large step-by-step photos with added close-up shots of detailed techniques.

Includes inspirational photos with alternative designs.

Provides a source list for products & supplies.

Will inspire confidence and creativity in the beginner.

Plain "paintable" ceramic pieces are available in craft and home decor stores. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

painting ceramics
i checked this out @ the library & then decided i wanted my own copy ... Read more

Product Description
At the beginning of the twenty-first century, scholarly interest in ceramics is at an all-time high. As a vehicle for much-needed synthesis, Ceramics in America is an interdisciplinary annual journal that examines the role of historical ceramics in the American context. Intended for collectors, historical archaeologists, curators, decorative arts students, social historians and contemporary potters, every issue features a variety of ground-breaking scholarly articles, new discoveries in the field, and book and exhibition reviews for this diverse audience.

The 2005 issue of Ceramics in America will feature a diverse lineup of articles and new discoveries. Of particular interest will be articles covering early American stoneware from Baltimore and Richmond, Virginia. Of interest to both ceramic collectors and social historians is an article reviewing ceramics related to the publication of Uncle Tom's Cabin. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

5 stars
"Ceramics in America" is a wonderful publication. For the first volume of this journal, it is very well put together. The journal has lots of information on ceramics made and used in America. It is very helpful to those who are not very familiar with American ceramics.

A finely crafted volume
This book is a must-have for ceramics enthusuasts!Having worked with historic ceramics for several years, I was familiar with many of the authors selected to write for the first "Ceramics in America" monograph.As much as I eagerly anticipated the work, I was not prepared for the level of excellence which has been achieved here.This volume contains cutting-edge ceramics research, illustrated with the latest in pottery technology and documentary history of the field. I was particularly impressed with two articles highlighting pottery techniques: the submission by Don Carpentier and Jonathan Rickard on annular or "dipt" wares, and also the work of team Michelle Erickson/Rob Hunter, who demonstrate early English slipwares production.This is yet another triumph for the Chipstone Foundation, who has successfully sponsored Luke Beckerdite's "American Furniture" series for years.This book is very highly recommended for archaeologists, collectors, curators, and other material culture specialists. ... Read more

Product Description
The development of paint-your-own ceramics studios, at which ready-made bisqueware and studio time for decorating it are sold, has made pottery decoration accessible to a wider public than ever before. Ceramics artist Jane Davies demonstrates how to decorate the surface of ready-made bisqueware and tiles using commercially produced decorating colors known as underglazes and other materials to create beautifully colored pieces. Practical step-by-step demonstrations of a variety of application methods-including brushing, shading, sponging, masking, sgrafitto, spattering, stamping, stenciling, marbling, majolica, and underglaze pencils-provide inspiration for decorating tiles, plates, cups, bowls, lamps, vases, and decorative platters. Davies also explores the creative possibilities of colored glazes, as well as decorating pieces after firing with acrylic paint and paper collage. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Great book
I received the book fast in practically new. The book is beautifully illustrated and with easy steps to glazing your projects. Thanks

A Glaze of Color: Creating Color and Design on Ceramicsed
This was a really disappointing purchase.There may have been some good techniques embedded somewhere, but I was so put off by the sloppy and amateurish work shown that I just couldn't bring myself to give it a thorough read.

I couldn't tell who was the intended audience.It was too confusing for the beginner, and nothing new or exciting for the more advanced.Lots of important information was left out.For instance, how many coats of glaze were used?The book seemed mostly for the "paint bar" crowd rather than the serious potter.

A Great Book For Contemporary Studio
This is so far the best and most looked at book in my contemporary ceramics studio.It has been used many times by my customers who are looking for inspiration, patterns and techniques.There is an area that shows how the pottery is dipped in glaze and placed in the kiln....so it's really helpful to show cutomers what happens to their piece once they've left it in the studio.
It's easy to read and great for all ages.

Beautiful
I am fairly new to ceramics and this book was a wonderful read.It explained had a lot of information regarding glazes and different techniques to using glazes.There were a lot of great pictures in the book to that gave me some good ideas for some of things that would be fun to make.

Useful book, well presented!
As an art teacher, I'm often looking for books that will benefit (inspire) my students. I highly recommend "A Glaze of Color" for artists, students and hobbyists who want a clear, step by step guide to the techniques used in hand-painted ceramics. This book is well written and has wonderful illustrations. I think that it is equally useful to those studing painting as well. ... Read more

Product Description
Working with clay is a deeply satisfying creative hobby, but many would-be potters are put off because they don't know how to get started. Pottery Basics shows the way. With instructive, clearly captioned, step-by-step photos on every page, it teaches everything they need to know to start making, decorating, and firing pottery. It also presents twelve simple projects that encourage beginning potters to put their new skills into practice. Expert potter Jacqui Atkin instructs on:

Product Description

Customer Reviews (5)

The in-depth survey that I've been longing for...
This is the book that I've been desperate for in my personal studies of Japanese ceramics. The book contains--in sufficient detail--information about the historical development of Japanese ceramics as well as an overview of production techniques. It then provides wonderful descriptions of the various types of ceramics found throughout Japan, but the information is broken down by geography. Specifically, by island and then by kiln. For example, the "Kyushu" section contains information on seventeen different kilns, and thus, on seventeen different types of ceramics, from the well-known Kutani to the lesser-known Mikawachi. Color photographs from the authors' collection are provided as examples. The information is then bolstered by a well-researched bibliography and appendix as well as with a very functional index. Most importantly, (to me at least!) is the inclusion of kanji and romanji throughout the entirety of the text; it is provided for place names, kiln types, and in the lengthy travel notes.

In short: if I were to write a book on Japanese ceramics, this is what I would want to write. If five additional stars could be awarded to this book, I would.

short satori

After seeking and not finding for 30 years, I discovered this book opens the door to Japaneseceramics. Defining while explaining various styles of the pot form as the island transitioned from the ancient to the modern world.
It is accurate yet concise. As a potter, trained in Japanese techniquebut practicing here in the west since the 1970s I found theadaptation modern Japanese potters have made to marketing and studio practice worth the price of the book alone.
The failure of information- dense books like these has been poor or non existent images to accompany the text.
I am pleased to tell you the photo work here is good and plenty ,simply and accurately referenced.
You can leaf throughdescriptions that accompany each pot for just that pot if that is your style, or if you so decide you can do an encyclopedic search to cross reference that piece with the history and personalities of the movement.
You can even go further ,by checking the end sheetsto look up the area ,even the kiln the piece is from.
If there was one complaint it was just- there needs to be a one page owners manual to show you how to navigate the book ...

Just what I was looking for...
Having already had an interest in Japanese pottery, when I moved to Fukuoka in Kyushu last year, I realized that Kyushu pottery was not just the famous Arita/Imari ware or even Karatsu-yaki.I looked in vain for a book which would give me some background on the many types of pottery in Kyushu that boasted a history of hundreds of years.I wanted something published fairly recently, knowing that there were talented young potters carrying on the work of generations.Naturally I thought I would find it among Japanese language publications, but no, I found it in this one.I rely on it.In addition to the history of the various types of pottery, it contains pictures of representative pieces and even directions to the kilns/pottery towns toward the back.I wish it also had directions by car in some cases, but I understand why that might difficult.Now if only we could add descriptions of hot springs near the pottery towns, it would be a dream come true!

ANiftyLittle Book! I like it!
I tend to agree with the reveiw above....The title is misleading,it is not a book about modern Japanese ceramics. Most of the photos are of works done in the 1800's, but there are some interesting examples of more contemporary works in the final chapters, and those were indeed very interesting. But I was not displeased with this book,in fact, it was quite the reverse. I have very little knowledge of Japanese techniques, I tend to work in underglazes and North American technical ways of firing, so, a chance to see a completley different perspective on ceramics from a Japanese cultural point of veiw is a great thing for me.
Its a great little book, loaded with photos, technical info, and the works in the final chapters has me interested in purchasing another book on real contemporary Asia ceramics...Amazon has such a one,I think I may order it today, in fact!
One the whole, it's great value for the money, I would recommend it to anyone who is curious about Japanese approaches to this art form.

more tradition than innovation
First, the good -- this book contains lots of beautiful pictures of Japanese pottery from the 1990's and early 21st century. For that alone, it may be worth purchasing this book. Now the not-so-good -- if you are expecting to see cutting edge, modern ceramics from Japan, this is not the book for you. The text focuses largely on the history of Japaneses pottery and makes only a slight attempt to review the work of contemporary potters. The illustrations of pottery, while visually appealing, also fall largely (although not exclusively) into the category of traditional forms and firing methods. Although I am always happyto look at traditional Japanese pottery, I found little in this book that could provide inspiration for my own more modern work. ... Read more

Product Description

This second edition of a highly successful book is completely revised and updated. It continues to have the same theme, viz., processing, structure, properties, and the performance of ceramic matrix composites. The term ceramic here includes inorganic silica-based glasses, crystalline ceramics, glass-ceramics, intermetallics, and carbon. All of these have the underlying unifying thread that they are all brittle and fairly high temperature materials.

After an introductory chapter, the processing, microstructure, and properties of various ceramic materials, reinforcements, and their composites are described. A separate chapter is devoted to processing of ceramic reinforcements, with a special emphasis on fibers. Processing of ceramic matrix composites is the next chapter, which includes novel techniques such as sol-gel processing and ceramics from polymeric precursors. The next four chapters cover the subjects of interface region in ceramic composites, mechanical and physical properties, and the role of thermal stresses and the important subject of toughness enhancement. Laminated composites made of ceramics are described in a separate chapter. Finally, a chapter is devoted to various applications of ceramic matrix composites. Throughout the text, the underlying relationships between the components of the triad: processing, microstructure, and properties are brought out. An exhaustive list of references and suggested reading is provided.

Ceramic Matrix Composites is aimed at final year undergraduates and first year graduate students in materials science and engineering and related fields. It will also be a valuable source of reference for the practicing engineer or scientist.

Customer Reviews (1)

Good, easy to read textbooks
I read this book as a supplemental textbook for a class I took on composite materials.This is a very good book.It is very easy to read.The text is at a level any engineer can understand, yet there is enough data for practicing composite engineers.There is a wealth of data, and full lists of complete references at the end of every chapter.There are many pictures and diagrams, and they are very easy to interpret and understand.I highly recommend this book. ... Read more

Product Description
The perfect resource for individuals wishing to take the next step in their involvement with clay. Written by Steven Branfman, The Potter's Professional Handbook covers topics ranging from determining what a professional is to equipment selection, setting up shop, marketing your work, and much more. This book provides descriptions of the items necessary for a beginning professional potter and includes visual examples of items including sales slips, purchase orders, invoices, credit slips, and even floor plans of well-known potters studios.

Are you considering a change in how you practice your pottery craft? Perhaps a move from hobbyist to professional potter? If so, you'll appreciate this expert advice from Steven Branfman, a consummate professional who has distinguished himself as an artist, teacher, and businessman.

Steven offers friendly and useful guidance for everything from determining what a professional is to setting up shop and selling your work. His practical tips will help you make the move to professional potter with confidence. You'll also find comprehensive listings of resources for supplies and materials, workshops and schools, computer resources, magazines and journals and much more! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

For the serious hobbiest and the professional potter
This is the book I have been looking for.I'm building a clay studio and wanted advice and tips on how to set it up.This is the only book I've found that gives really in-depth information on these topics.He also covers other topics you would want to know if you're going to be a professional potter.

Not only does he share some of his own horror stories (so you won't repeat them yourself!), but he also includes insets of the stories of other pro potters and their studios.Very helpful.He covers studio needs, selection, etc.; working with suppliers, vendors, contractors; equipment selection;and business practices, marketing and self-promotion (the hardest part of the business for me - and I think for most artists!).He also talks a bit about teaching and it's effect on your work (pro and con).The subtitle of the book says it all:"The complete guide to defining, identifying, and establishing yourself in the craft community".

This book is a must have for any professional potter and will be found very helpful even to hobbiests.

A thorough guide to getting started in the pottery business!
This book is so comprehensive and has answered so many of my initial questions regarding the start of a pottery studio and business.Steve writes in a language the layman and advance potter can both understand.The chapters are coherently laid out with the pertinent topics such as vendors, supplies, electrical needs, studio set-up, equipment making and purchasing, space needs, floor plans; the list goes on and on for the whole book.The back of the book has many vendors, suppliers and web links for reference.Although the web pages of many have changed, it is a great start on connecting with the pottery world.I highly recommend this book.

A path well directed
It is comforting to know that there is a book out there that is well written and primarily intended for people like me, who earn a living from clay. Naturally, most of us have already knocked our heads and come up withsome soluations - discussed by Steve, but the confirmation of having made"right" decisions, etc., takes a load off and builds confidence.Had I been able to read a text like this six years ago, I would have hadless bruises to my head and my ego! His other book, Raku: A PracticalApproach is also a treasure which I notice is not listed here on Amazon -uhhmmmmm! Would be nice to have that as an Amazon selection. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (1)

A good basic handbuilding book.
This book has several very good alternative handbuilding techniques that I've found useful over the years. It is easy to understand, and is illustrated just enoughto give you a good sense of what is possible usingeach individual technique. This book is an excellent resource for thebeginner ready to move beyond the beginning. ... Read more