Wedgwood Jasperware is a type of pottery that has been around for over two centuries. This unique pottery is known for its intricate designs, durability, and its beautiful blue and white colors. However, many people are unaware of the secrets behind the manufacture of Wedgwood Jasperware. In this blog, we'll delve into the secrets of Wedgwood Jasperware manufacture, and how the company has maintained its high-quality standards for so many years.

The History of Wedgwood Jasperware Wedgwood was founded by Josiah Wedgwood in 1759, and it quickly became known for its high-quality pottery. Josiah Wedgwood was a master potter who was always looking for ways to improve his craft. He experimented with different types of clay, glazes, and firing techniques until he was able to produce pottery that was both beautiful and durable. One of Wedgwood's most famous creations is Jasperware. This type of pottery is made from a mixture of clay and other materials, including flint and bone ash. The mixture is fired at a high temperature, which causes the materials to fuse together and become extremely hard. The pottery is then glazed and fired again, which gives it its beautiful blue and white finish.

Now, let's take a closer look at the secrets behind the manufacture of Wedgwood Jasperware.

1. The Clay Mixture

The recipe for the clay mixture is one of the biggest secrets of Jasperware manufacture. Wedgwood has been refining its recipe for over 200 years, and it's still a closely guarded secret. The mixture includes a variety of different materials, including clay, flint, and bone ash. The exact proportions of each material are carefully controlled, and even small changes can have a big impact on the quality of the finished product.

2. The Moulds

The moulds are another important factor in Jasperware manufacture. Wedgwood has a large collection of moulds, some of which are over 200 years old. These moulds are used to shape the clay mixture into the desired form, whether it's a vase, a bowl, or a figurine. The moulds are carefully maintained and repaired as needed, to ensure that they produce high-quality pieces every time.

3. The Firing Process

The firing process is crucial in Jasperware manufacture. The pottery is fired at a high temperature, which causes the materials to fuse together and become extremely hard. Wedgwood uses a special kiln that is designed to fire the pottery at a precise temperature and for a specific amount of time. This ensures that the pottery is both beautiful and durable.

4. The Glazing Process

The glazing process is the final step in creating the iconic blue and white finish of Jasperware. Wedgwood uses a special glaze that is made from a mixture of ceramic materials and pigments. The glaze is applied to the pottery by hand, using a brush. The pottery is then fired again, which causes the glaze to harden and become part of the pottery itself.

Wedgwood Jasperware is an iconic pottery that has been around for over two centuries. The secrets behind its manufacture have been carefully guarded by the Wedgwood company, and only a select few know the exact recipe and techniques used. The clay mixture, moulds, firing process, and glazing process all play a crucial role in creating the beautiful and durable Jasperware that we know and love today.