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DG 1110-3-124
August 1976
a. A C T I V I T I E S
3-2 Handcrafted
(1) The process whereby earth clays and minerals are
Pottery and Ceramics
transformed into utilitarian and decorative objects is one
of civilization's earliest forms of expression. Clay is
worked by several methods including hand modeling,
throwing on a potter's wheel, and casting. After pieces
have dried, they are fired to form a bisque, glazed, and
fired again. A comprehensive program includes clay prep-
aration, forming techniques, decorating, firing procedures,
and glaze formulation. The process by which a novice is
familiarized with the techniques includes demonstrations,
lectures, graphic presentations, and practice.
(2) Mold making is an activity related to pottery repro-
duction. The actual making of molds of one's own design
is a creative experience. Casting of clay in ceramic molds
is a repetitive process which relates more to commercial
manufacturing.
Such ceramic mold activities are not
normally a function of the Arts and Crafts Center and if
provided should be housed in a separate facility.
(3) Additional activities in the clay and mineral category
involve working with glass. Mosaics, stained glass and etch-
ing, designing, forming and dumping of glass can be per-
formed in the general arts and crafts studio as they are
compatible with most other craft processes. However,
glassblowing does have a considerable influence on facility
design and is treated separately in this chapter.
b.
PARTICIPANTS
Military personnel, dependents, retirees, and some civilian
personnel will all have access to the pottery and ceramics
facilities. The range of ability of the participants will be
wide, and novices are usually encouraged by the more
experienced. In a 20,650 square foot center, users will
generally be limited to no more than 20 at one time. At
least one supervisor should be present at all times.
c.
PHYSICAL
REQUIREMENTS
(1) Ceramic/pottery activities may be conducted within
the common area of the general arts and crafts space. This
includes work areas for designing, forming and glazing.
However, kilns, which generate a great amount of heat,
should be separated from the general work area. Working
with clay can be dusty and, where possible, should be
separated from other craft works. Materials often come in
large containers, so storage rooms should be convenient to
service entrances. Room surfaces should be nonporous
and easily cleaned. Sloped floors with drains are desirable.
Storage for drying of pottery is required in an area sepa-
rate from the generaI work space.
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