You need to know this... The start to finish process of pottery

Understanding the process of pottery will save you money, time, and a lot of grief.

Here’s a clear breakdown of what to expect—from the moment you shape your piece to the moment you take it home—right here at The Clay Hole.

General Pottery Workflow

1. Make it: This could be wheel-throwing or hand-building. You're shaping clay into something wonderful.

2. Dry it: Your piece must air dry for 1–2 weeks. It must be bone dry before firing to avoid cracks.

3. Bisque fire: We fire your dry piece at a lower temperature so it turns ceramic but remains porous for glaze to stick to.

4. Glaze it: You paint, dip, or spray your piece with glaze. There are hundreds of options available.

5. Glaze fire: We glaze fire your piece so it comes out glossy, finished, and strong.

Make Something: Make whatever you want, whether it’s by hand or on the wheel.

Make It Pristine: Sponge or rib your piece smooth. Spend time now to save time later.

Let It Harden: This is the stage you can slip & score handles, add embellishments, carve, etc.

Cover It & Let It Dry: Drying is a slow process that can take days or weeks to avoid cracks.

“Sand” It: Use a scouring pad to smooth out any final blemishes.

Add It to the Bisque Shelf: We’ll get it bisque-fired and ready for you to apply glaze.

Glaze It: Get creative! Apply glaze to your piece, following all glazing protocols.

Add It to the Glaze Shelf: We’ll give it its final firing! Make sure you pay for your firing.

Pick Up Your Piece: You did it! You have a finished vessel. Go you.

Seriously, Come Grab It! Any piece not picked up by its deadline will be discarded.

Dan Pearce
Founder | The Clay Hole