When Applying A Layer Of Slip.....

[clay lover]

how do I keep from getting the base clay color from coming up and making smears in the top layer of slip?  I have been throwing open bowls , using a heat gun to firm them up some and then brushing white slip from the center outward, but can't seem to get a smooth coat of slip and often the dark clay starts coming through when I try to ad more , thicker , white slip for a better covering.  Any help appreciated.

[Colby Charpentier]

1. Apply the slip once, don't bring brush back over the area of coverage. If you have to reapply, wait for the first layer to dry.

 

2. Use a soft bristled brush.

 

3. Use thick slip.

 

4. Alternatively, apply to bisque ware.

[bciskepottery]

I usually slip at leatherhard. Try working from the rim to the center. Use a soft multi-stem hake brush. I'll sometimes do a thin first coat, allow it to dry/absorb, then do a second coat. I've found thrown clay too moist and will stain, especially if its a red or brown clay and I'm using white slip.

 

Consider pouring the slip into the bowl, swirling, then empty and wipe rim and outside drips.

[clay lover]

OK, sounds like I was trying to do it with the piece too wet.  I was afraid to have it drier, thinking that would increase the chances of it cracking off.  Also, I was using a mop brush.  Thanks for the advice, will have a go again today.

So if I'm doing tiles, I can cut them, put them between plaster board to insure flatness, and THEN slip them.  much better way.

[Chris Campbell]

It's not the plaster board that will insure flatness ... it is the handling of the tiles before they hit the board that counts.

Try as much as possible to slide them horizontally rather than try to pick them up. Any time you lift a corner you are making memories for the clay.

And, if you place them on a wooden board and drop the board from waist high, you wont need the plaster board at all.

[Colby Charpentier]

You must keep a clean studio if you can drop a board to the floor and not choke on dust!

[schmism]

relevant video

 

 

 

first 2/3 is throwing the bowl.   starting at 5.30 he applys the slip to the bowl.  His slip appears to be the constancy of mayonnaise.  

 

John Britt has a vid on how he makes his thickened slip in case your issue is related to the constancy.

 

[clay lover]

I thinned the slip so I could get it through an 100 mesh screen.  Now how do I thicken it up without making dry chunks on the sides of the container, or will those mix back in easily?  There is no water standing on the surface.

[Nancy S.]

I usually just let my slip sit uncovered, stirring it occasionally, until it's a thicker consistency. If I'm impatient I'll grind some dry clay into a powder and stir that in, let it sit a little, and maybe whiz it with the blender. I've also stuck dry chunks in for a day and then pulled the chunk out.

 

Admittedly, this could be The Wrong Way to Do Things. I'm kinda winging it most of the time.