Making Pottery You Can Use: Plates that stack, Lids that fit, Spouts that pour, Handles that stay on

Whether you are aspiring to be a potter, a beginner, or an experienced craftsman, Making Pottery You Can Use is an excellent choice for your reference. Jacqui Atkin’s book is a superb example of assembling useful, usable information, profusely illustrated by large, beautiful photographs. She starts with the basics, then she organizes her consequent chapters according to vessels: cups, plates, teapots, and so on. She uses very little text; whatever is given is succinct, precise, instructive, and to the point. With many clear step-by-step photos, the instructions are as good as if she were teaching you in person. Then she has large close ups with pointers leading to various parts of the vessel, each briefly explaining something useful to know about technique or practicality (reason for minimal rim, extended rim to form handles, e.g.). She instructs illustrated details such as handles (coiled, slabbed, or pulled) with many photographed examples. She also gives the weights of required clay and the size of the final piece in chart forms—very useful, practical information. The book is designed for a small studio environment. At the end of the book, Atkins provides several templates and profile formers. This is an excellent and practical pottery book.