Easy Relief Surfaces
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Easy Relief Surfaces
How to Do Easy Relief Surfaces
Flowers, abstract geometry, letters, anything -- making complex relief surfaces on your pots, tiles or sculptures is easy using shellac. This technique is especially suited to fine clays like porcelain or porcelaineous stoneware, but could be used on just about any clay.
Difficulty Level: Easy Time Required: 20 min
Here's How:
1. Dissolve shellac flakes to a thin, creamy consistency in Methylated Spirits (Alcohol).
2. Paint your designs with various brush sizes on to bone dry greenware.
3. If necessary apply a couple of coats. This will depend on the initial consistency of the shellac.
4. Let the shellac dry thoroughly. If you're in a hurry, you can use a hair dryer set to 'hot'.
5. Carefully wipe back layers of clay with a wet sponge. The clay will stay raised where you have applied the shellac.
6. After drying, the process may be repeated for layers of various depths.
7. Decorate, glaze and fire as usual.
Tips:
1. Be careful not to use too much water at any one time, otherwise cracks may appear, especially on thin ware.
2. Further effects can be achieved by additional carving.
3. Try experimenting with other nontraditional resist materials, like house paint!
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| Sheri Ann Richerson |
