SUBSCRIBE CLAYART Anonymous on mon 8 may 00
Hello,
I am looking for a successful terra-cotta or stoneware clay recipe for
outdoor tiling.
Something that can freeze, I know much grog helps this. At any rate I am new
to this list so I hope this is an appropriate inquiry. Among the many
questions I have in starting my first private studio: I am ready to purchase
raw material for clay and glazes, (I am in the East) any suggestions on where
I should look for each ingredient? Is it cost effective to order a big order
from one company such as Bailey or Axner or is it better to seek out smaller
distributors? And is it wise to obtain some from here and some from there? I
know qualities vary any suggestions, links or leads are much appreciated.
Thanks in advance.
Andrea
SUBSCRIBE CLAYART Anonymous on mon 8 may 00
Hello,
I am looking for a successful terra-cotta or stoneware clay recipe for
outdoor tiling.
Something that can freeze, I know much grog helps this. At any rate I am new
to this list so I hope this is an appropriate inquiry. Among the many
questions I have in starting my first private studio: I am ready to purchase
raw material for clay and glazes, (I am in the East) any suggestions on where
I should look for each ingredient? Is it cost effective to order a big order
from one company such as Bailey or Axner or is it better to seek out smaller
distributors? And is it wise to obtain some from here and some from there? I
know qualities vary any suggestions, links or leads are much appreciated.
Thanks in advance.
Andrea
DeBorah Goletz on thu 11 may 00
You ask a lot of good questions, Andrea, though the answers will depend on
the nature of your project. For outdoor freeze/thaw conditions, you need to
choose a frost proof body (one with less than 3% absorbtion). If you are
buying pre-processed clay (which I would recommend for a project that is of
a public nature or one in which you need to guarantee to the client that the
clay is frost proof). You still need to conduct your own absorbtion tests
though (see archives) because some clays need to be fired a cone or two
higher than the manufacturer indicates to reach frostproof vitrification.
Then you will need to find a glaze that FITS VERY WELL - no crazing (check
it under magnification). If you are doing a large project, I recommend
buying all the clay at one time. Most distributors give you a discount for
larger purchases.
Best,
DeBorah Goletz
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