Ceramics 101

New to ceramics or looking to brush up on the basics?

Ceramics 101 is your starting point for understanding the essential tools, techniques, materials, and processes used in ceramics. From choosing and preparing clay to glazing, loading and firing a kiln, our collection of resources provides helpful information and step-by-step guidance to help you feel more confident in the ceramics studio. 

Explore the topics below to learn the fundamentals and build your ceramics knowledge today!

Understanding the Stages of Clay

Understanding the stages of clay is essential for creating successful ceramic work. This resource walks through the different stages of clay, from fresh, workable clay through drying, firing, and the finished piece.

How to Store Clay in the Classroom

Learn how to properly store clay between classes and projects to help prevent it from drying out and keep it ready to use. This resource covers simple clay storage practices that are helpful for ceramics classrooms, studios, and makers of all experience levels.

How to Recycle and Reuse Clay in the Classroom

Make the most of your clay by learning how to recycle and reuse clay scraps and trimmings. This resource covers simple techniques for reclaiming clay and putting it back to use, helping reduce waste and make the most of your materials in the classroom or studio.

Kiln Firing 101: The Basics

Whether you're new to ceramics or looking for a refresher, understanding the basics of kiln firing is an important part of creating successful ceramic projects. This resource covers essential kiln information to help you feel more confident preparing for and managing firings in the classroom or studio.