The Encyclopedia of Pottery Techniques: A Unique Visual Directory of Pottery Techniques, with Guidance on How to Use Them

by Peter Cosentino

The new and updated edition. “Nicely illustrated . . . provides how-to information and photos on a variety of making and decorating techniques.” —Ceramics Monthly

Inside, discover all the major pottery techniques used the world over, from time-honoured traditional methods to exciting new developments. These include coiling, combing, resist decoration, sgraffito, slabbing and texturing clay. Once you’ve learnt these essential techniques, put your new skills into practice with a wealth of inspirational examples, ranging from bowls, vases and cups, to plaques, spheres and sculpture.

In addition, advice on materials and equipment is provided to help you on your crafting journey, including kilns, glazes, moulds and more. Finally, a gallery of stunning images is featured throughout the book, demonstrating an array of beautiful designs by established potters and ceramicists that will inspire both beginner and experienced potters.

“The book’s subtitle says it well.” —CreativeCrafter.com

Genres: Crafts, Nonfiction

177 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 1, 1990

About the author

Peter was born in 1951 in Lauria in Southern Italy and came to Britain in 1956.

Teacher trained at Worcester College of Education during 1969 – 73 and taught for five years in secondary schools in Worcester and Solihull. He left teaching to set up his first pottery studio in 1979 and opened ‘Gallery 21’ (a pottery shop and small exhibition gallery) in Yardley, Birmingham with his wife.

In 1983 he returned to education as Lecturer of Ceramics at Milton Keynes College, Bletchley where he introduced the first full time art and design courses and later became Head of Art and Design. Appointed Head of the School of Art and Design at Rugby College in 1994. Later became Assistant Principal there.

Left education and returned to potting full time in July 2006.

Publications

Peter Cosentino is the author of the following three pottery titles published in the UK and abroad:-

CREATIVE POTTERY (First published by Ebury Press, 1985)

THE POTTERS’ PROJECT BOOK (First published by Windward Press, 1987)

THE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF POTTERY TECHNIQUES (First published by Burlington Books, 1990 and has been published in over 10 countries!)

Reviews

[Tina Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great overview of so many techniques with a nice photo sampling of ideas.

[Greta · Rating 4 out of 5]

A visual guide to various pottery techniques, many of which I've seen mentioned in other books but with only brief definitions. This book contained lengthy explanations and photographs illustrating the techniques. Very helpful for beginners like me!

[Artlab]

Clay

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I look at this book almost everyday since checking it out from the library.

[Kathryn Dechairo · Rating 4 out of 5]

So informative and beautifully illustrated.

[Bud Winn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good overview but not too much detail. Great insight into styles and philosophy of pottery

[Mary Foxe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Skimmed.

[Tracey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Practical instructions and guide to many of the available techniques available and explained in a easy to read format with images of other potters work as examples of what can be done.

I think this book would suit beginners as well as providing as intermediate/advanced potters some ideas to include in their style of work.