Clay Bodies: Earthenware, Stoneware & Porcelain
The three principal clay-body categories compared by maturation temperature, vitrification and use.
Reference Manual · r1 · 2026-05
A cited reference for ceramic craft
Three clay-body categories, five primary forming techniques, two kiln atmospheres, and the pyrometric cone chart that ties them together. Every figure on this page links to its source — Orton Ceramic, Digitalfire, Wikipedia, or a named studio publication. No fabricated stats.
3
Clay-body classes
5
Forming techniques
600–1400°C
Firing range
022–10
Common cone span
SECTIONS
Seven reference sections
Each section is now its own page for easier reference and search.
Forming Techniques: The Five Primary Methods
The five primary pottery forming techniques and when each is used.
Where to Start: Recommended Paths
Recommended entry paths into ceramics depending on your goals and equipment.
Firing Atmospheres: Oxidation & Reduction
Kiln firing atmospheres — oxidation and reduction — and how each affects clay and glaze.
Glaze Families: Celadon, Tenmoku & the Iron/Copper Tradition
The major ceramic glaze families — their chemistry and firing.
The Orton Pyrometric Cone Chart
The Orton pyrometric cone chart — cone numbers, equivalent firing temperatures, and heatwork.
Process Stages: From Wet Clay to Finished Ware
The full ceramic process — wedging, forming, drying, bisque firing, glazing, glaze firing.