Creating small test pots on the pottery wheel for glaze testing is a valuable practice for potters and ceramic artists. Here are some tips on the benefits of using test pots for glaze testing and how to make the most of them:
**Minimise Risk:** Glaze testing on a full-sized piece can be risky because if the glaze doesn’t turn out as expected, you might ruin a lot of hard work. Test pots allow you to experiment without the same level of investment.
**Variety of Surfaces:** Creating test pots in various shapes and sizes allows you to test how a glaze interacts with different forms. You can use different forms like cups, bowls, plates, and more to see how the glaze flows and settles.
**Colour Variation:** Test pots help you explore the variations in colour that a glaze can produce. By applying the same glaze to multiple test pots, you can observe how thickness, layering, or underglaze colour affects the final outcome.
**Glaze Combinations:** Test pots are perfect for experimenting with different glaze combinations. You can layer glazes, apply them side by side, or use one glaze as a base glaze and another as a cover glaze to discover new and unique effects.
**Record Keeping:** Keep detailed records of your test pots, including the glaze formula, application method, firing temperature, and any other relevant information. This documentation is crucial for replicating successful results in the future.
**Problem Solving:** If you encounter issues with glaze, such as crazing, bubbling, or uneven coverage, test pots help you identify and address these problems on a small scale before applying them to larger, more time-consuming pieces.
I will also just quickly add that you should cover your pot with a plastic bag when you’re letting it dry before the trimming stage!
Once again hope you enjoyed this post and as always Happy Potting!!! 🥳🥳
We will be back tomorrow with some more tips and ideas ❤️
