Smalted’s Ceramics Glossary: Your Ever-Growing Ceramic Dictionary

Ever find yourself lost in ceramic jargon like Slip or Engobe? Don’t worry! At Smalted, we’ve created a ceramics glossary so you can instantly find the definitions of these and many other ceramic terms. This glossary is the perfect reference for those exploring the art of ceramics for the first time, as well as for seasoned potters who still run into unfamiliar words from time to time.

Why a Ceramics Glossary?

Ceramics is as vast as its techniques and materials. Terms like Stoneware, Porcelain, or Glazing can be confusing at first, which is exactly why a ceramics dictionary is so useful. Our goal is to connect both experts and beginners through a common language, so everyone can:

• Learn terminology in a clear and straightforward way.
• Prevent misunderstandings when reading or sharing tutorials.
• Discover new processes and techniques you might not have heard of before.

Whenever a question arises, just head to our Smalted Glossary and clear up any doubts right away.

What Will You Find in Smalted’s Glossary?

Smalted’s ceramics glossary is a living resource, constantly growing. It covers everything from the basics of pottery to more technical, complex definitions—always presented in a friendly way so these concepts stay accessible. Some highlight entries include:

• Paste or Paper clay: Paper clay combines clay with shredded paper fibers, resulting in a mixture that allows the production of light, thin and more flexible ceramic pieces compared to traditional ones.
• Tobikanna: Tobikanna, also called chattering, is a traditional Japanese decorative technique used to create unique textures and patterns on the surface of ceramic pieces during throwing.
• Grog: Grog is a type of refractory clay that has undergone a high-temperature firing process to transform it into a more heat-resistant substance.
• Porcelain: Porcelain is a ceramic material of the highest quality, the result of the interaction between pure raw materials-principally kaolin, feldspar and quartz-and firing at high temperatures exceeding 1300°C.
• Resist: Resist is a technique to protect specific areas of a piece to prevent glaze, engobes or other coatings from adhering to them during firing.

These are just a few examples of the many ceramic terms you’ll find. Each definition is laid out clearly and concisely, so you’re never left guessing.

How to Use Our Ceramics Glossary

1. Visit whenever you have a question: If you’re reading an article, attending a course, or chatting with fellow potters and come across an unfamiliar term, head right to the Smalted Glossary.
2. Explore new concepts: Browse through the various definitions and discover everything there is to learn. You might just find inspiration for techniques you’ve never tried before.
3. Share and contribute: Think we’re missing a term or want to enhance a definition? Let us know! At Smalted, we’re always open to improvements and evolving together.

Join the Smalted Community

Aside from our ceramics glossary, you’ll find a wealth of resources at Smalted for potters of every level: tutorials, forums, articles, and much more. We aim to build a community where everyone can share their experiences, questions, and creations. If you haven’t already, feel free to explore our Blog and be part of our conversation and inspiration hub.

Ready to Get Started?

Dive into our ceramics dictionary, one of the most comprehensive and user-friendly references around. Check out our glossary to learn about every term and become the expert you’ve always wanted to be.

We’ll see you there!