Slab Techniques (Ceramics Handbooks) - Softcover

Although this is essentially a very simple subject, slabs can be used to
make the most basic of forms to the most complex. This broad approach
to slab work shows a wide variety of building methods and shows the
work of many high-profile ceramic artists in this area. The book
explores and explains most of these methods through step-by-step images
and text, using a varied range of both pots and sculpture. There are
often several techniques that could be used to achieve the same result and this book shows that no one method is
correct, but there will be one which is appropriate for the potter, the
clay and the firing process. The reader is encouraged to experiment and develop their own ideas.

The book covers all the basics, such as making your slabs and
joining well, simple building methods, use of supports, creating
textures, decorating with slips and ways to avoid disasters during
firing. It also looks at many innovative and original approaches, as
well as building
large-scale pieces and the problems associated with it. The book aims
to encourage the reader to experiment and find
the methods most suited to them, while fantastic images of finished
work are
offered to show what is possible.

Jim Robison is the author of our Large-scale
Ceramics handbook, he is very well-known as a slab builder, and has
made many public works using textured tiles and slab
constructions. He is also very involved in the Aberystwyth Ceramics Conference and always hosts many of the demonstrations.

Ian Marsh is a ceramic artist, photographer and is chair of the Northern Potters
Association.