The potter's guide to ceramic surfaces

Here are three outstanding books on ceramic glazes, each directed at a different level of expertise. Connell gives a good overview of the large variety of modern glazes available. She illustrates more than 60 decorative techniques used during the biscuit (or bisque) stage and through a range of firing, multiple firing, and postfiring techniques. Tools, health and safety procedures, and clear, step-by-step instructions are included but only in enough depth for the novice potter to get a sense of the possibilities. More advanced potters will want Cochrane's in-depth instruction on the salt-glaze process. The rich tones of salt glaze were the latest technology in 17th-century England, supplanting rough peasant earthenwares and, in turn, being replaced by cream ware and bone china. Salt glaze was justly revived in the 20th century, but the only two books that came out of the revival are now out of print. Cochrane's effort will remain the standard for some time. Serious potters will welcome Hesselberth and Roy's approach to the complexities of formulating one's own glazes. They cover the durability of glazes, the leaching of unwanted chemicals into food or drink, the fading of colors, and more. Purchase one, two, or all three of these books, depending on the interest and expertise level of your library's readers. (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Here are three outstanding books on ceramic glazes, each directed at a different level of expertise. Connell gives a good overview of the large variety of modern glazes available. She illustrates more than 60 decorative techniques used during the biscuit (or bisque) stage and through a range of firing, multiple firing, and postfiring techniques. Tools, health and safety procedures, and clear, step-by-step instructions are included but only in enough depth for the novice potter to get a sense of the possibilities. More advanced potters will want Cochrane's in-depth instruction on the salt-glaze process. The rich tones of salt glaze were the latest technology in 17th-century England, supplanting rough peasant earthenwares and, in turn, being replaced by cream ware and bone china. Salt glaze was justly revived in the 20th century, but the only two books that came out of the revival are now out of print. Cochrane's effort will remain the standard for some time. Serious potters will welcome Hesselberth and Roy's approach to the complexities of formulating one's own glazes. They cover the durability of glazes, the leaching of unwanted chemicals into food or drink, the fading of colors, and more. Purchase one, two, or all three of these books, depending on the interest and expertise level of your library's readers. Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information.