mel jacobson on mon 25 sep 06
itc is available through axner.com.
you don't need gobs of it.
it thins with water.
it is a thermal coating that does not spall off
the kiln.
it is not magic, just a quality thermal coating
for kilns and furnaces.
it is a great kiln wash.
it is great for posts and other parts of kilns.
i use it on my thermo/couples.
itc100
it is basically an industrial product...
the reason that i use the term...`spank the baby`
when tap centering is:
it is a very gentle, tap and release.
it is almost a non/hit. like the pot, we would never
hurt a baby...it is the perfect analogy. when i teach it,
everyone `gets it`.
and, i love the concept of setting the pot.
because that is what happens...it will set on most
any clear, clean shiny surface. if you have very flat/firm rims.
i really don't care how anyone attaches pots for
turning...use tuct tape...use elmer's glue..that
is up to you.
for those that have discovered the tap with water,
firm rim, perfect leather hard....the system is fool proof.
there is not a master potter in japan that cannot do it.
yes, of course i use clay chucks...almost all the time.
that is the common use for trimming among many oriental potters..
but, you attach the chuck with water, tap center...and
get it on tight...it stays all day. the bottom of clay chucks are
scored with a checker board pattern...helps them stay on.
as for `razor blade rims`...they are very poor pots for every day
use. they chip on the edges of the dish washer...break with
ease and in many cases not really fit for tap centering.
that was my point...i do not hate potters that make thin rimmed
ware...that is their choice. i just would never try and sell
a set of dishes to a customer with razor blade rims. i would
have a red face for months. i would get most of them back in
six months. chip, chip, chip.
and, without question my aesthetic is for a rim that makes a
solid, firm statement. i teach that. and, as a professional critic
that is my choice.. and you can see over and
over, student work with thin rims...and fat bottoms. the rim is
something you plan for ahead of time. it is a very firm decision
by the designer.
a lovely thin rimmed pot with a graceful thin body...and wonderful
small foot ring is a thing a elegance and beauty. i own several.
but, if you are going to work with speed and craft, make many
pots a day.....sell your pots as functional dinner ware....make
a solid, well designed rim. most working potters know that.
mel
from: mel/minnetonka.mn.usa
website: http://www.visi.com/~melpots/
Clayart page link: http://www.visi.com/~melpots/clayart.html
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