Slip (ceramics)

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

A slip is a suspension in water of clay and/or other materials used in the production of ceramic ware.^[1] Normally a deflocculant such as sodium silicate is added to disperse the particles and hence allow a much higher solids content to be used. The addition of a defloculant allows the water content to be kept to a minimum which reduces the amount of shrinkage when slipcasting. The mixing can be by hand or more usually in a blunger.

A slip may be made for various reasons:

• As a means of mixing the constituents of a body; in which case it is subsequently dewatered.
• Preparatory to slip casting.
• Used decoratively when placed onto a leather-dry clay body surface by dipping, painting or splashing, this is often described as slipware. Slipware may be carved or burnished to change the surface appearance of the ware.
• To join unfired pieces such as handles and spouts. This is a common, but not universal, method.

The slip may be a different color than the underlying clay body or offer other decorative qualities.

[edit] References