Keraamikatöö

Keraamikatöö refers to the craft and art of working with clay to create ceramic objects. This process involves several stages, beginning with the preparation of the clay itself. Raw clay is typically mixed with water to achieve the desired consistency, and impurities are removed. Once prepared, the clay can be shaped using various techniques.

Hand-building methods are fundamental to keraamikatöö and include pinching, coiling, and slab building. Pinching involves shaping the clay by pressing it between the thumb and fingers. Coiling utilizes long, rope-like pieces of clay that are joined together to form the desired shape. Slab building involves rolling out flat sheets of clay, which are then cut and assembled into forms.

Another significant technique is wheel throwing, where a lump of clay is centered on a potter's wheel and shaped as the wheel spins. This method is ideal for creating symmetrical, rounded forms such as bowls, vases, and cups. After shaping, the ceramic piece is allowed to dry.

Once dry, the piece is typically fired in a kiln. This initial firing, known as bisque firing, transforms the fragile clay into a hard, porous state. Following the bisque firing, the ceramic object can be decorated with glazes. Glazes are liquid suspensions of minerals that fuse to the ceramic surface during a second firing, creating a decorative and protective coating. This final firing, or glaze firing, is usually at a higher temperature. Keraamikatöö encompasses both functional pottery, such as tableware, and artistic ceramic sculpture.