Frank Colson on fri 15 jul 05
As we all know there are many ways and variations to carbonize a pot. Most
often the techniques fall into the category of "post firing" as
related to raku processing.
I would like to offer a means of "spot reduction" application to nearly any
pot, raku or otherwise. I'm defining the term "spot reduction" as
a way to create a very controlled carbonization application onto the surface
of a fired but unglazed pot. An area which can be only inches
in size. The technique certainly is not limited, however.
The process is in the application of wax, initially. Use only paste wax!
Butchers Wax or TreWax available from any hardware store. Used for
polishing furniture. Apply this wax onto the surface in of a pot in any
manner you wish! Brush, fingers, etc. The wax covered area is the area
which will be carbonized. Black to deep gray is the normal range which may
be achieved. Now, gently stroke the wax application with a carbonizing
flame. The best and most rapid effect can be done by using a smoky
acetylene flame. A weed burner, or propane torch may be used as well, but
will be more difficult to confine the flame to the surface of the wax coated
pot. Nonetheless, It WILL work!
The important factor is to keep the flame really carbonized. Yellow and
smoky! Wear dark dark glasses! The process will take less than a minuet
for any small localized surface.
When done the surface of the pot will have a layer of "soot" on it, looking
like a black fuzz. Using an old rag, rub the soot off. The result
will be the impregnation of carbon into the clay body permanently. Leave
the surface as is, or polish it with the rag to achieve a soft sheen.
By the way this carbonization application has been used for more than a
century. Most of the Rodin sculptures, done at the Coubertin
Foundry, outside of Paris, were finished in "Renaissance Black" in the very
manner described above.
Frank Colson
www.R2D2u.com
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