Ceramics: A Green Approach

by Kevin Millward

Overview

From extracting clay to exporting your work, this is a practical guide to producing unique ceramic pieces with minimal environmental impact.

Being a green potter is not an easy feat. Historically, a lot more attention is given to the finished pieces coming out of the kiln rather than to the damages made throughout the designing and making processes. However, as we progress into the twenty first century, and our awareness of our impact on the environment increases, caring for our planet in the studio has never been more important.

In this book, Kevin Millward explores how potters and ceramicists can be more responsible in sourcing and using the planet's finite resources. With tips for the whole making process such as firing, choosing fuels, extracting clays and raw materials, reclaiming water and glazes, disposing of ceramic materials, packing and shipping, this is a comprehensive guide to producing extraordinary pieces.

By accepting and embracing a green approach in ceramic processes, we are setting out an example for future generations and paving the way for a more creative and respectful industry.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781789941944
Publisher:	Bloomsbury USA
Publication date:	08/19/2025
Series:	New Ceramics
Pages:	224
Product dimensions:	7.45(w) x 9.65(h) x 0.65(d)

About the Author

Kevin Millward is an internationally renowned ceramicist who has been potting for over 40 years and has trained potters from all over the world. He has worked at studios such as Cooper's Pottery, the Gladstone Pottery Museum and alongside David Leach. He taught ceramics at Bucks New University and the University of Westminster and has more recently been series consultant to Channel 4's The Great Pottery Throw Down.

Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION

1. CLAY, BODIES AND FIRING

2. HOW RAW MATERIALS ARE PROCESSED INTO A CLAY BODY

3. RAW MATERIALS AND OXIDES

4. COLOURS AND OXIDES

5. FUEL FOR THOUGHT

6. KILNS AND POWER REQUIREMENTS

7. ATMOSPHERES

8. FIRING

9. THE RIGHT STUFF

10. FIFTY SHADES OF BROWN

11. BURNERS

12. GLAZE APPLICATION

13. PACKING AND DISPATCHING

14. HOW CLEAN IS OUR FUEL?

15. POTTERS

CONCLUSION

GLOSSARY OF TERMS

ADDITIONAL REFERENCES

WEIGHTS AND MEASURES

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Editorial Reviews

... one of the most important books on ceramics and where the ceramic industry needs to change.” —Emerging Potters

From the Publisher