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A hand-building technique that involves creating shapes with long ropes of clay and layering them in a spiral. Originated independently in Africa, the Americas, and Asia.

A process of making pottery by pinching the clay to form a pot, bowl, or vessel. Used by many cultures around the world, including ancient China.

This method involves rolling out clay into even slabs and then joining them together to form structures. It has origins across various cultures, including Native American groups.

A technique that uses a spinning wheel to form round pottery pieces. Historically developed in regions like Mesopotamia, Egypt, and China.

The application of a glass-like coating that is fused to pottery for decorative effects and to create a waterproof surface. Has ancient origins, with early examples from Egypt and Mesopotamia.

A form of decoration made by scratching through a surface of slip to reveal a lower layer of a contrasting color. Common in Italian Renaissance pottery but with earlier versions around the world.

A technique where a smooth object is rubbed on the surface of the clay to compact it and produce a sheen. Originates from ancient peoples, such as the Mesoamericans and Africans.

A slip applied to pottery that may be colored and which burns to a matte finish. Engobes are known from early Neolithic pottery traditions across the globe.

A decorative process that involves applying small, carved pieces of clay onto a larger clay body. This technique dates back to ancient times, with examples from Asian and Pre-Columbian pottery.

The oldest known method for firing pottery, which involves placing it in a pit in the ground, covering it with combustible materials, and igniting it. This technique was used by many early cultures, including the Jomon people in Japan.

Pottery is turned on a wheel and carved using various tools to create detailed patterns. Different variations can be traced back to ancient civilizations, including the Greeks and the Chinese.

Involves extruding a liquid clay body (slip) onto a surface to create raised decorations. Dates back to the 17th century, with notable use in English slipware.

A technique for shaping ceramics by pouring slip into a mold. This method became popular in the industrial era but has folk art variations that are much older.

A process where salt is introduced into the kiln during the firing process, creating a glassy coating. The technique was developed in the 14th century in Germany.

A fine slip applied to a ceramic body to give a shiny, smooth surface resembling a high polish. Originated with the Ancient Romans but has international applications.

Similar to Sgraffito, this technique involves scratching through a layer of colored slip to reveal the clay body beneath. Widely used in the Middle Ages, especially in Europe.

A technique of shaping clay without tools, relying solely on the hand's dexterity. It can be traced back to prehistoric times and is still used in many tribal societies.

Shaping clay over a rounded form, often a plaster mold, to create vessels or plates. This practice has historical examples in both Eastern and Western pottery techniques.

Clay is pressed into or onto a mold to create a shape. An ancient technique known from early civilizations like the Sumerians.

A texturing method that involves a tool bouncing against a spinning piece of pottery, creating rhythmic patterns. This technique is popular in East Asian ceramics.

A Japanese term referring to a decorative process that involves stacking and slicing colored clays. Known for its intricate patterns, it has roots in ancient Japan.

The Japanese technique of chattering, where a tool is used to create a rhythmic pattern on the vessel's surface. It's known for its distinctive textures.

A Japanese technique that creates a stone-like texture on ceramic surfaces by applying a thick glaze that is partially removed before firing.

A Japanese method where a solid block of clay is hollowed out to create a vessel, allowing for a natural and organic form.

A Japanese firing technique featuring low temperatures and a post-firing reduction phase, which makes for characteristic crackled glazes and unique colors.

A Baltic firing method that involves immersing hot pottery in a fermented flour mixture, creating a unique pattern and texture.

Using a rotating mold on a potter's wheel to shape the interior of a plate or similar form. An adaptation of wheel throwing, widely used in industrial pottery.

The application of a thin layer of slip applied to a ceramic surface, often to change its color or texture. This technique has been used since ancient times and adapted in various cultures.

A blend of clay and paper fibers that creates a strong and versatile medium for sculpting. Modern invention that allows greater flexibility in design.