

Pottery
Pottery Terms
In pottery, what does the term “crazing” refer to?
1. Cracking during firing
2. Adding a final glaze layer
3. Carving intricate patterns
4. Attaching handles
Answer
Cracking during firing
Crazing is the fine cracks that can appear in the glaze surface of pottery, often occurring due to differences in thermal expansion.
Pottery Terms
What is the process of heating pottery called?
1. Firing
2. Cooling
3. Drying
4. Glazing
Answer
Firing
Firing is the process of heating pottery to a high temperature in a kiln.
Pottery Tools
What is the purpose of the “kiln” in pottery?
1. Shaping the clay
2. Adding texture
3. Firing the pottery
4. Applying glaze
Answer
Firing the pottery
The kiln is used in pottery for firing, a process of heating the clay to high temperatures to transform it into a durable ceramic material.
Pottery Tools
What is the primary purpose of a “kiln furniture” in pottery firing?
1. Supporting the kiln structure
2. Adding texture to the pottery
3. Holding the raw materials
4. Providing a surface for firing multiple pieces
Answer
Supporting the kiln structure
Kiln furniture includes shelves and posts that support pottery during firing.
Pottery Tools
What is the primary function of a “kiln vent” in pottery firing?
1. Removing fumes and gases
2. Enhancing texture
3. Adding color to the surface
4. Controlling temperature inside the kiln
Answer
Removing fumes and gases
Kiln vents are used to remove fumes and gases produced during firing, promoting a safer working environment.
Pottery Tools
What is the primary function of a “kiln shelf” in pottery firing?
1. Adding texture to the pottery
2. Supporting the kiln structure
3. Providing a surface for firing multiple pieces
4. Controlling temperature inside the kiln
Answer
Providing a surface for firing multiple pieces
Kiln shelves provide a flat surface for stacking pottery pieces during firing.
Pottery Tools
What is the purpose of a "kiln wash" in pottery?
1. Enhance glaze adhesion
2. Prevent warping during firing
3. Facilitate even heat distribution
4. Protect the kiln shelves from glaze drips
Answer
Protect the kiln shelves from glaze drips
Kiln wash is applied to kiln shelves to protect them from glaze drips during firing. It prevents the melted glaze from sticking to and damaging the kiln shelves.
Pottery Tools
What is the purpose of the “banding wheel” in pottery?
1. Shaping clay on a wheel
2. Applying a final glaze layer
3. Creating textured surfaces
4. Facilitating even decorating and painting
Answer
Facilitating even decorating and painting
A banding wheel allows potters to rotate a piece easily, facilitating even decorating and painting.
Pottery Tools
What is the primary purpose of a “stilts” in pottery firing?
1. Adding stability to the kiln
2. Elevating pottery above the kiln shelf
3. Supporting the kiln structure
4. Holding the raw materials
Answer
Elevating pottery above the kiln shelf
Stilts are used to lift pottery above the kiln shelf to prevent it from sticking during firing.
Pottery Tools
What is the primary purpose of a “caliper” in pottery?
1. Measuring thickness of glaze
2. Measuring the diameter of pottery forms
3. Checking the temperature of the kiln
4. Applying slip to the surface
Answer
Measuring the diameter of pottery forms
Calipers are used in pottery to measure the diameter of vessels, ensuring uniformity and precision in shaping.