Slip Casting

Slip Cast Ceramic: What is it?

Slip casting is a ceramic forming technique that allows for the creation of intricate and consistent ceramic pieces. Here's a quick overview:  

History:

• Ancient Roots:

  • While its widespread use came later, the foundation of the technique can be traced back to ancient civilizations in places like Egypt, Mesopotamia, and China.

  • Early forms of molding with clay slips were employed.  

• Development:

  • It is noted that development of the slip casting methods we know today came to fruition in China during the Tang Dynasty.  

  • The technique gained significant traction during the Industrial Revolution in Europe, particularly in the 18th and 19th centuries.

  • The use of plaster molds and the desire for mass production greatly accelerated its adoption.

Traditional Uses:

• Figurines: Creating detailed ceramic figures.  

• Tableware: Producing matching sets of cups, plates, and bowls.

• Sanitary Ware: Forming toilets and sinks.  

• Decorative Items: Crafting intricate ornaments and vessels.

Modern Applications:

• Industrial Ceramics: Manufacturing technical ceramics for various industries.  

• Art and Design: Creating contemporary ceramic sculptures and design objects.

• Medical Ceramics: Producing medical implants and prosthetics.

• Mass Production: Continued use in producing consistent tableware and sanitary ware.  

How to Make Slip Cast Molds:

• Creating the Master:

  • Begin with a model of the desired object. This "master" can be made from clay, wood, or other materials.

• Mold Preparation:

  • The master is then placed within a container, and plaster is poured around it.

  • Multi-part molds are used for complex shapes, requiring careful planning and division of the mold.  

• Plaster Setting:

  • The plaster hardens, creating a negative impression of the master.

• Mold Separation:

  • The mold is carefully separated from the master.

• Mold Preparation for slip:

  • Once the master is removed, the inside of the plaster mold will receive the slip.

• Slip Casting:

  • The clay slip is poured into the plaster mold.  

  • The plaster absorbs water from the slip, causing a layer of clay to form against the mold walls.  

  • Excess slip is poured out, and the clay form is allowed to dry.  

  • The finished ceramic piece is then removed from the mold.  

Key points about plaster molds.

• Plaster's porosity is crucial, as it draws water from the slip.  

• Multi-part molds enable the creation of complex three-dimensional forms.