Ceramics for Kids: Creative Clay Projects to Pinch, Roll, Coil, Slam & Twist (Kids' Crafts)
Grade 3-6-A collection of appealing hand-built, low-fired clay projects, organized by technique and increasing levels of complexity. Ellis provides clear directions, uses simple procedures, suggests inexpensive tools and safety guidelines, and usually offers several photo examples of completed projects. Basic advice on glazing is provided, along with a simple introduction to firing, but children will need to find community centers and schools where the process can be completed. More expensive self-hardening clays are suggested for small projects when a kiln is not available. Samples are pictured in such a way that it is unlikely that children will be inclined to copy them. The imaginative pieces include face jugs, teapots, wind chimes, lanterns, birdhouses, whistles, and birdbaths. Many sections offer historical notes on the art on which projects are based, such as haniwa figures, Peruvian stirrup cups, totem poles, and Egyptian canopic jars. Except for a few cartoon renditions, the illustrations are attractive and the book design is pleasing. A Web site will help readers locate ceramic supply sources. This is a more down-to-earth and basic guide than Elaine Arima's The Kids 'n' Clay Ceramics Book (Tricycle, 2000).Marilyn Iarusso, New York Public LibraryCopyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.