How to make…

This series of films show you a behind the scenes look at the techniques used by the Leach Pottery Production team to create some of our unique standard ware pieces. It features the making of some of the popular forms; including mugs, plates, jugs and egg cups. From throwing and trimming to bisque firing, slipping, glazing and final firing – it is a glimpse into the production process from ball of clay to final standard ware piece.

What is...

There are many processes that go into making the Leach Pottery's Standard ware. This series of videos focuses on different elements of the production process; including throwing, slipping, glazing and firing - as described by some of the production potters.

 Lead production potter Roelof Uys gives us an insight into how the properties of clay led to the initial discovery of throwing and how that process evolved.

 Production Manager, Matthew Foster explains the importance of trimming as a way to define, shape and add detail to a pot after it has been thrown.

Production potter Britta James describes the history of the pulled handle and the techniques used to achieve this traditional, iconic form.

The process of applying slip to pots is described here by previous Deputy Studio manager Kat Wheeler, who explains what slip is, what it does and how it adds to the pot overall.

This video looks into the delicate process of brushwork with one of our production potters, Shannon Bartlett-Smith, who describes what it means it means to her and what it brings to the life of a Leach pot.

The important process of glazing is described here by previous production potter, Callum Trudgeon, who talks us through the range of glazes used at the Leach Pottery. He describes in detail the properties of glazes and the effects that these properties, along with the firing process, have on the finished look of the pots.

 Previous Production potter, Laurence Eastwood describes the process of firing and gives  a detailed explanation of all the variables and situations to consider.

The vital process of pugging clay, or reclaim is discussed here with previous Production potter, Annabelle Smith. Annabelle explains why reclaim is so important and why it's a vital step in not only recycling, but also its significance during the beginning of the pot- making process.