When making pottery, one of the most interesting parts is how we fire it. There are two main ways to do this: oxidation and reduction. Let’s look at what these mean!
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Oxidation Firing
In oxidation, there is plenty of oxygen in the air while the clay and glaze are being fired. This means that the colors will be bright and vibrant, and the surface of the pottery will usually look smooth. The heat helps the clay become hard and strong, while the glaze shines beautifully, making it look appealing.
Reduction Firing
On the other hand, reduction firing means there is limited oxygen. This process can create different effects. For example, some colors may come out darker, or the glaze might look matte instead of shiny. The clay might also develop unique characteristics that can’t be achieved in oxidation.
Why It Matters
Choosing between oxidation and reduction is important for pottery artists because it affects the way the final piece will look and feel. Artists might select one method over the other depending on the style they want to achieve. Experimentation is key, as they can discover unexpected and beautiful results!
So, whether you’re making a colorful bowl using oxidation or a mysterious vase with reduction, understanding these firing methods will definitely help you create amazing pottery.
