The Potter's Bible

by Marylin Scott

This is a highly illustrated reference for beginner potters, covering all the basics they would need to do a wide range of ceramics. The book is filled with step-by-step photographic sequences which take the reader through all the basic shaping, firing and decorating techniques they would need to know. The book is in the useful wiro binding format so that the book can be laid flat so that readers can follow the sequences while making their work.

Genres: Nonfiction, Crafts, Art

192 pages, Spiral-bound

First published September 8, 2006

About the author

Marylin Scott is a professional artist who works across a wide range of media. She studied painting at the Guildford School of Art and the Royal Academy of Painting in London. She is a respected practical art author.

Reviews

[Siah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book. Extremely detailed glaze recipes.

[Michel · Rating 4 out of 5]

A useful remind-all book, that is not perfectly suited to new potters.

Sturdy binding allows easy use even in the studio. Each page is full of illustrative pictures. The explanations is reasonably clear, although not sufficient as a study text. The book covers all regular activities (throwing, coiling, etc.) and a good number of specific pottery styles (e.g. raku etc.) that all potters may not practice.

Vocabulary is frequently used before being defined. Not all definitions are absolutely clear.

In the end, the title is a good description: "an illustrated Reference" but not a textbook. As mentioned above, it is not perfectly suited to beginners.

[Teadragon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid intro to many topics in pottery, but not a deep dive in to any. I've seen the author in person, and she was a great presenter. This book would help any beginner decide which topics they want to delve into within pottery. Good refresher of basic info as well. There are a few terrible printing errors, such as one vase description where two paragraphs are directly printed on top one another, making them unreadable (at least in the copy I have). So, approach this publisher with caution and this author with enthusiasm.

[Yvonne Aburrow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent and reasonably detailed explanation of pottery techniques. Could’ve done with more detail on wheel throwing but the page on centring was great. The sections on firing, glazing techniques, and tools are outstanding.

[Helen · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good reference book. Some content for beginners but more for the intermediate enthusiast. Too advanced for me, but I learned techniques I’ve put into practice and am more aware of the possibilities in future

[Zach Clegg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent resource for clayheads with so many techniques and recommendations along with specific recipes and precise requirements. I have a feeling it wouldn't hold up as one progresses to more expertise, but I find it entirely helpful.

[Bud Winn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great resource - just need to start practicing now.