tools
The ceramic lives on the right tools. But the exact use and application is not easy for a Tüpfer beginner to grasp. The ceramic encyclopedia explains the exact use of the individual tools so that you have the right ceramic tool at hand in the Töpfer process. In the following definitions you will learn more about glazing tongs, clay rollers, modellers and much more.
Sponge
The sponge is an important tool for a patient. Sponges are used both when turning to absorb liquid at the body and when applying ceramic patterns, e.g. with engobes.
Turning rail
Turning rails in various profiles consist of hardwood or plastic. They are used by the turner on the turntable for the different ceramic shapes.
Turning off/modelling loop
The tools provided with ground steel loops are suitable for modelling an object made of clay or for twisting a ceramic vessel on the disc.
Turning iron
The machining of leather-hard vessels is carried out with a turning iron on the rotating disc. Turning irons are available in various sizes and profiles.
modelling wood
Modelers are made of high quality material and are used for sculptural work with clay. They are available in many shapes and profiles.
Cut-off wire
In the case of the Töpfern, after turning on the Töpferscheibe, the vessel is detached from the base with the aid of a cutting wire. The cutting wire is also used to cut or portion the clay. Cutting wires usually have two high toggle handles.
Sound harp
A clay harp is used to cut clay plates from a mass block. An adjustable cutting wire is held by a metal rod.
impact wood
To deform or knock a ceramic object, a striking stick is used. It is a flat shaped, longer wooden part made of high quality material, also called paddle.
Clay roller/roller
A clay roller or a clay roller is used to produce clay plates. The clay mass is rolled out between two wooden strips in order to produce evenly distributed slabs.
Circle
In the Töpfei, abdominal dividers and dividers are used. They are made of wood or metal. The Töpfer thus takes precise measures to be able to manufacture series in tableware production or to determine shards of broken glass.
Hole cutter
hole cutters are equipped with metal tips. The handle is usually made of wood. Hole cutters are available in different diameters. With this tool you can cut holes in leather hard clay shards.
Polishing sheet
Polishing sheets are made of very thin metal. They have different shapes. After turning, the vessel can be reworked with a polishing sheet. The surface can also be smoothed during modelling with this tool.
Glazing tongs
Glazing tongs have three-point supports and are used for glazing vessels by dipping.
Malhörnchen
A rubber filled with glaze or engobe with a narrow diameter used to paint decorations on ceramic shards is called a Malhörnchen. Through a glass pipette, the glaze or engobe is released in a fine jet and so it is possible to draw fine lines.
Töpfermesser
One of the most important tools of the Töpfer is a Töpfer knife. It is versatile.
Glaze sieve
Glaze screens in various mesh densities consist of a stainless steel mesh and a plastic frame. They are used for the fine screening of glazes or engobes.
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