I dont like putting stones into wet clay as
1) If you make an error it's very difficult to correct without eaving marks in the clay.
2) It tends to kick up "edges".
I much prefer setting them into dry clay & this is how I do it:
1) Choose the position of the stone (making sure the area is deep enough for the stone!).
2) Drill the pilot hole all the way through
i) It allows you to easily remove the stone when trial fitting +
ii) It lets light through after firing.
3) Drill a hole the same diameter as the stone.
Ensure it is deep enough so that the table of the stone (it's widest point)
is below the top level of the clay. (As the clay fires the shrinkage then locks the stone in place
)
4) Fire the piece and
allow to air cool (quenching may crack or discolour the stone)
5) Finish and polish as normal.
Nic x
Bookmarks