10 Simple steps to making ceramic tiles with Julie Miles

1. First, the red earthenware clay is cut into blocks to make it easier to handle.

2. Next, comes the strenuous bit where the blocks are bashed and kneaded to make sure
   all the air bubbles are squeezed out so the tiles don't explode in the kiln!
   
   

3. Using a roller and wooden "guides" the blocks are then rolled out to an even thickness
   – not too thick and not too thin.  
   

4. Card templates are then placed on top of the flattened clay and carefully cut round with
   the special clay tools to give the right shape.
   
   

5. Then comes the messy bit – painting the clay with "slip".  A bit grey-looking here, the slip
   fires to a nice, white colour.
   

6. Once the "slip" had dried we scratched our designs into the clay (scraffito!)…..
   
   

7. ….or pressed objects into the surface to leave an impression behind.
   
   

8. People with steady hands added dabs of colour if they were feeling particularly artistic!
   
   

9. The tiles were then left to dry….           
   
     

10. ..before firing in Julie's kiln to become the finished ceramics!