Discover the stages of ceramic production

What happens to clay after it's shaped? Discover the stages of ceramic creation

You've shaped your first clay vessel and... what's next? The process of creating ceramics doesn't end with forming. This is just the beginning of a fascinating journey where clay goes through several important stages: drying, firing, and glazing.

In today's post, we show you exactly what happens to your work after the workshop – and how raw clay transforms into a durable, functional masterpiece.

Drying – patience is key here

After shaping, every piece must dry thoroughly. Clay contains a lot of moisture that needs to be removed before placing it in the kiln. Drying too quickly or unevenly can cause cracks.

• The drying process usually takes from a few days to up to 2 weeks (depending on wall thickness, technique, and air humidity).

• Works are stored in a dry and airy place.

• When the clay is completely dry, we say it's in a bone dry state – it is then very fragile and light in color.

First Firing – also known as bisque

Dried pieces go into the ceramic kiln for the first firing, called bisque firing.

• The temperature of this firing is usually 900–1000°C.

• The piece changes: it becomes hard, porous, and ready to absorb glaze.

• After bisque firing, you can pick up the vessel without fear of it crumbling – although it is still not waterproof.

Glazing – the magic of color and texture

This is the most creative moment of the entire process! Now you can give the piece color, shine or a matte effect, and also make the vessel sealed and functional.

• Glaze is a special mixture (mainly silica and minerals) that forms a glassy coating on the surface after firing.

• You can use a brush, dip the vessel in glaze, or pour it – each method gives a different effect.

• Glazing can be uniform, multi-colored, glossy, matte, smooth, or with a flowing effect.

Second Firing – the final step to durability

After glazing, the piece returns to the kiln for the second firing – this time at a higher temperature:

approx. 1050–1250°C, depending on the type of clay and glaze.

• During this firing, the glaze melts and fuses with the surface of the vessel.

• After cooling, we retrieve the finished ceramics: durable, waterproof, ready for use or decoration.

And it's done! Your handicraft has undergone a complete transformation

What started as a soft, pliable mass – has gone through the process of drying, firing, and glazing, to become a beautiful and durable object. Each of these stages requires time, patience, and a touch of magic – but the final result is worth it.

You create – we take care of the rest

At Nuna Ceramics Studio, you don't have to worry about the technical aspects. After the workshop:

• we will properly dry your work,

• we will ensure safe firing and glazing (or invite you to glaze it yourself!),

• and you will pick up the finished ceramic piece that you can take home or give to a loved one