Paper Clay


To answer the question of how I secure the animals to my pottery, I use paper clay.  I make this using the clay of my pottery (trinity white cone 5/6 clay) and cellulose insulation.  The ratio is 75% of gooey slip to 25% cellulose.  Measurements do not have to be exact.  I put materials in an old blender then liquidly adding water if needed.  Also, add a few drops of bleach to stop the mixture from souring. When I am ready to place the sculpture, I score the contact area and the sculpture, and then brush a dab of the paper clay to scored area.  Place the sculpture firmly to scored area.  Brush a thin layer of the paper clay up the legs of the animals is needed.  This adds reinforcement without adding bulk.   In your bisque firing, the paper burns away leaving a thin layer of smooth clay. Practice, you will love the results.


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