Most of my work is done with the use of stoneware clay. Where as other works are done using porcelain clay.

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Whats the difference?

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           Stoneware refers to a high fired (2100 degrees to 2372 degrees F -cone 3 to cone 11) ceramic clay blend that is semi-vitreous (not translucent and not zero porosity). When glaze fired, the glaze is not lying on the surface but actually melts somewhat into the surface. Stoneware was first made in the Indus Valley and in China around 2000 years ago. It was not in Europe until the 1500s in Germany. Stoneware objects are noted for their excellent working properties, throwing abilities and are prized by potters.

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           There is a fuzzy line between stoneware and porcelain. Porcelain clay is a clay body that draws in many ceramic artists because of its bright white color, translucency, and the way glazes look oh so fabulous on it. But it’s a fussy little clay body susceptible to collapsing during the forming process (especially on the pottery wheel) and warping during the firing. While in the kiln, porcelain is usually fired at temperatures between 1,200 and 1,400 °C (2,200 and 2,600 °F). Porcelain slowly evolved in China and was finally achieved about 2,000 to 1,200 years ago, then slowly spread to other East Asian countries, and finally Europe and the rest of the world.

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