When you work with pottery, you’ll come across the term “bisque.” This means the pottery has gone through its first firing in the kiln, which is a special oven designed for ceramics.
After this first round of heating, the pottery is not yet shiny or colorful because it hasn’t been glazed. Glazing is a process where a special mixture is applied to the surface, which adds color and makes it smoother and more protective.
So, when you hear “bisque,” remember it’s an important step in making pottery! It’s like a baby step before the pottery gets its pretty finish. Bisque pottery is often left unglazed to show off its natural clay color or is used for practice before the final creation. It’s a critical part of how artists create beautiful pieces, and understanding this helps you appreciate the hard work that goes into pottery!