Forming processes and techniques Porcelain differs from other ceramics such as terra cotta, stoneware and earthenware by its whiteness, translucency, impermeability, durability and resonance.

PASTE:
composed primarily of three natural occuring rocks;
Kaolin (Chinese for «high hill»): base ingredient in porcelain (55%), a very pure and plastic clay. Quartz (20%): a degreasing substance enabling the porcelain to hold its shape under firing.
Feldspar (25%): soft element allowing for the fusion of the mixture.

MANUFACTURING:
early methods of transforming these raw materials into objects were e done by hand. The paste was moulded, turned or stamped. This was a difficult process and is still used today when making prototypes or artistic objects.

CASTING:
The pacte in its liquid form is poured into a hollow plaster mould, leaving a layer of clay on the surface of the mould. The cast is then removed after a period of time. This method is used to make hollow or sunken pieces such as vases, soup-tureens and coffee/tea pots.

JOLLYING/JIGGERING
Used to make round objects such as plates, saucers, cups, etc., this method uses a semisoft round shaped paste set flat on a spinning mould. A blade is set at the desired thickness and any excess is cut off.

PRESSING
Hardened granular paste is injected by steam pressure into the two sides of the mould.

FIRING:
after the piece is dried and finished, it is ready for its first firing. It is placed in an electric kiln at 980*. The piece becomes dehy-drated and porous and is now entirely dipped in glane. A second and final firing is done in a gas kiln at 1400*. The piece is now vitrified and has lost 15% of its original volume and dimensions. The porous gray mixture has become white, translucent, impermeable and resonant.