The ceramic world is rich in shaping methods and the plate method is a prominent technique among these techniques. The plate method, which is used especially for large surface and geometric shaped artefacts, has a history dating back to ancient times. This method, which has an important place in both modern and traditional ceramic art, allows the creation of forms that cannot be achieved on the potter's wheel.
History of the Licence Plate Method The plate method was used in ancient times in ancient civilisations such as Mesopotamia and India. Archaeological finds show that this technique dates back to 14,000 BC. However, the potter's wheel was more widely preferred at that time. The plate method was used especially in pre-Columbian Mesoamerica and has gained an important place in ceramic artefacts from this region. Today, this method has been revived in the hands of modern ceramic artists and has contributed to the emergence of creative and innovative works.
Preparation of Plates The most common way to prepare a plate is to roll out the clay with a rolling pin. The homogenised clay is spread on a cloth and then rolled out to the desired thickness with a rolling pin. In workshops, plate rolling machines are also used, especially for large productions. These machines save time and help to obtain more uniform plates. Tabletop versions for smaller workshops offer a practical and economical alternative. Those who want to achieve a natural and organic look can create slabs by throwing the clay on the surface. This method involves throwing the clay at different angles and gives a more natural result.
Methods of working with plates The plate method makes it possible to work with soft and hard plates. Both techniques give different results and are favoured according to the creative vision of the artist. Working with Soft Plate: Working with freshly opened, damp plates allows you to create more fluid and leathery structures. These plates are easily shaped and can be laid on various forms to create different compositions. However, soft plates are prone to warping during firing, so they should be worked with care. Working with Hard Plate: Plates that have reached the hardness of leather are ideal for architectural and geometric forms. These plates can be cut and combined to produce strong and durable artefacts. Hard plates have less risk of warping during firing than soft ones.
Plate method for large-scale work The plate method is particularly well suited for large-sized ceramic artefacts. Large-scale works require careful monitoring during the drying process of the plates. Large-scale works are usually built on newsprint or fabric. This allows the clay to move as it dries. It is also recommended to place the artefacts on chamotte or sand in the kiln so that the plates can shrink freely during firing. Some artists add fibre to the clay to increase the durability of large works. The paper-added clay known as ‘Paperclay’ is ideal for large-scale works. Lightweight, durable and low risk of warping, this clay is often preferred for large projects. Forming with Plate Technique In addition to simple geometric forms, more complex shapes can also be worked with the plate method. The desired thickness can be adjusted with wooden sticks placed on the edges of the clay. For the base shape of the form to be worked, the clay is rolled out and cut to the desired dimensions. To form a cylinder, the base circle is first prepared. This base allows the sides to be calculated according to the dimensions of the clay to be rolled out later. The edge clay is sewn and wrapped around the base and the joints are smoothed by hand. For a stronger joint, the edges are cut and glued with clay.
Final Thoughts Finally, the inner and outer surfaces of the ceramic object are smoothed with the help of a metal and various textures or ornaments can be added. Thus, the work prepared by the plate method is finalised and ready for firing. The plate method is a versatile and creative technique for both traditional and modern work in the ceramic world. Ideal for creating geometric and organic forms with large surfaces, this method has a deep historical heritage in ceramic art. By working with both soft and hard plates, a variety of artefacts can be created and it offers the perfect solution for large-scale projects.