Casting Slip – Tips and Techniques
Casting slip, also known as slip, is a liquid clay used together with plaster molds. This technique produces thin, even, and reproducible objects and is ideal for batch production and detailed forms.
What is casting slip?
Casting slip is a finely liquid clay poured into a plaster mold. The plaster absorbs water and gradually builds an even layer of clay. The result is a stable, reproducible object. Read our guide on clays for the right material choice.
Step-by-step: how to cast ceramics
- Pour casting slip into the mold
- Let it sit until the desired thickness is reached
- Pour out the excess slip
- Let it set and remove the piece
What is slip casting used for?
- Cups and mugs
- Bowls
- Decorative objects
- Serial production
Important things to consider
- Correct slip consistency – not too thick or too thin
- Clean and dry molds
- Even drying
- Common mistake: too short casting time results in overly thin walls
Post-processing
After casting, the same process applies as with other ceramics:
- Trimming/cleaning
- Drying
- Bisque firing
- Glazing – read our guide on choosing glaze and applying glaze
- Glaze firing