4 Types of Clay Used for Ceramics

 

Updated November 2024

Choosing the right clay for ceramics is crucial for creating pottery that’s both practical and visually appealing. 

At DiamondCore Tools, we’ve seen firsthand how important it is for ceramic artists to understand the differences between clays. Picking the right clay not only makes it easier to use your pottery tools but also helps bring your creative ideas to life.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the four main types of clay for ceramics, their unique qualities, and what works best for specific types of projects. By the end, you’ll have a better idea of which clay is the best fit for what you want to create.

1. Earthenware

Characteristics: Low firing temperature, porous, and soft texture.

Common Uses: Beginner pottery, decorative ceramics, and terracotta pieces.

Advantages: Easy to work with, widely available, and affordable.

Drawbacks: Fragile after firing, limited durability, and not waterproof without glaze.

Earthenware clay is more porous and textured than other clay types. 

This clay has been used to make some of the oldest known pottery from15,400 to 18,300 years ago. The first pit-fired earthenware dates to 29,000 to 25,000 B.C.!

Today, earthenware clay is used for traditional terracotta pots, decorative ceramics, and beginner pottery pieces. 

Because earthenware is so porous, it requires a lower fire temperature than other clay types.

Earthenware can be fired at 1,828 degrees Fahrenheit to 2,088 degrees Fahrenheit for bisque firing and 1,728 degrees Fahrenheit to 1,945 degrees Fahrenheit for glaze firing. 

2. Stoneware

Characteristics: Medium to high firing temperature, durable, and versatile.

Common Uses: Everyday dinnerware, mugs, vases, and functional pottery.

Advantages: Strong after firing, naturally water-resistant, and suitable for a variety of glazes.

Drawbacks: Can be more challenging for beginners due to its density.

If you’re looking for a clay type that is less porous and more sturdy than earthenware, stoneware clay is for you. This clay is perfect for artists who enjoy creating everyday items like dinnerware, mugs, vases, and other functional pottery pieces.

It can withstand heat elements, making it microwave- and oven-safe.

Stoneware is fired between 2,124 degrees Fahrenheit and 2,264 degrees Fahrenheit. 

3. Ball Clay

Characteristics: High plasticity, fine particles, and typically used in blends.

Common Uses: Strengthening and adding plasticity to other clay bodies.

Advantages: Enhances workability and adds strength to finished pieces.

Drawbacks: Rarely used alone due to excessive shrinkage during firing.

Ball clay isn’t often used in pottery today, but when it is, it’s similar to earthenware pottery. The biggest difference between the two clay types is that ball clay will turn white once fired. 

Kaolinite, mica, quartz, and other organic matter make up ball clay, also known as “plastic clay.” Ball clay can only be found in specific locations around the world, making it a rare clay type. 

This clay type was originally used for floor and wall tiles but is also great for creating plates, vases, mugs, and similar pottery projects. Additionally, it’s commonly used to strengthen and add plasticity to other clay bodies.

Ball clay should be fired at 2,4336 degrees Fahrenheit. 

4. Porcelain

Characteristics: High firing temperature, fine texture, and white, smooth finish.

Common Uses: Fine china, sculptures, and high-end pottery.

Advantages: Creates delicate, translucent pieces with a polished finish.

Drawbacks: Difficult to work with, prone to warping and cracking.

Porcelain is highly sought after for its durability, delicate appearance, and elegant finish, though its premium quality often comes at a higher price.

This clay type dates to the Shang Dynasty in China, 1600 to 1046 B.C. 

Porcelain can be difficult to work with, requiring a lot of water due to its large number of clay particles. Too much water can cause the porcelain to collapse on the pottery wheel, making it frustrating for artists to handle.

Once you master this clay type, it is best used to create serving ware and other functional cooking or drinking pottery pieces to increase the overall value and professionalism of the piece.

Firing porcelain gives it a glass-like appearance, and it is often fired more than once to achieve different finishes. This clay type should be fired at 2,200 degrees Fahrenheit to 2,600 degrees Fahrenheit.

Choosing the Right Clay for Your Project

Picking the right clay is a key step in creating ceramics that match your vision. Whether you’re working on functional pieces or decorative art, there are a few important things to keep in mind:

• Firing Temperature: Different clays have specific firing ranges, so it’s important to choose one that works with your kiln and glaze. 

• Workability: Some clays, like stoneware, are sturdy and easy to shape, making them great for larger projects. On the other hand, porcelain has a smooth texture but can be tricky to work with, especially for beginners.

• Desired Finish: If you want a polished, elegant look, porcelain might be the way to go. For something with a more rustic or earthy feel, stoneware or earthenware could be a better choice.

• Intended Use: Think about how the final piece will be used. Stoneware works well for functional items like mugs and plates, while ball clay is often added to other clays to improve strength and plasticity.

At DiamondCore Tools, we believe experimenting with different types of clay is the best way to find what works for you. When you pair the right clay with the right tools, it can make all the difference in your creative process. 

Whether you’re new to ceramics or a seasoned pro, taking the time to try out different clays can help you discover your favorite to work with.

DiamondCore Tools’ Clay for Ceramics

Did you know DiamondCore Tools now carries clay for ceramics? We’ve partnered with Aardvark Clay and Supplies to bring you high-quality clay for all your projects.

We carry a full range of carving tools to help you master your pottery projects. If you're just starting out, our starter sets are a great way to begin. For more specific projects or if you're looking to add to your collection, we offer specialized tools to take your work to the next level.

DiamondCore Tools has the clay and pottery tools you need to take your projects to the next level!

If you have any questions about pottery clay types or firing temperatures, we’re here to help! Leave a comment or get in touch with our team on Facebook and Instagram. We can’t wait to see what you’re creating!