Slip Casting

Slip casting is the forming of ceramics by pouring or pumping deflocculated (water reduced) clay slurry into plaster molds. In the process the absorbent plaster pulls water from the slurry and over a period (e.g. 20 minutes) a layer builds up against the mold surface. The slurry is then poured out and within a short time the item shrinks slightly and can be removed from the mold. This process is flexible, capable of producing fine delicate porcelain items yet heavy utilitarian objects can also be done. The casting process is the best where very thin walled or complex-shaped pieces are needed.