Even if you have good penmanship, Sgraffito lettering can be quite difficult to get right.
For one thing, you’re working on a spherical surface. That’s more difficult than writing on paper. Also, instead of a pen or pencil, you’re using a pointed tool to write your sgraffito lettering. It has a different resistance on the writing surface and can feel clumsy. Also, you have to fit your text into a restricted and generally small space. Worst of all, you only get one chance to get it right! Mistakes can be repaired, they’re a pain.
If you have some time, this will help you get it right:
On Paper
- Figure out where to place your lettering on your pot. Sketch it out. Work around any sprigs or sculptural features.
- Sketch your text on paper so you’ll be sure it will fit into the space on your pottery. How large can the letters be? Where do you need to break the lines?
On your Pot
- Draw rule lines for your letters on your pot. If the slip isn’t too soft, you can use a pencil. Otherwise, a brush dipped in food colouring will work. They’ll burn away in the kiln.
- Lightly sketch on your text to get the spacing right
- Work slowly and calmly
Types of Letters
Roman Capitals
How to do Roman Capitals
This technique works well for capital letters but can be also used for lower case letters. It’s useful because the letters are not slanted and the “filling in” can hide poor spacing or letter forms.
Print, Italic or Cursive letters
You can rely on your own penmanship – and quirky features can be charming. This works best if the slip is still quite soft. Your pointed tool will glide like through butter! However, if the slip is very dry, it’s a scratchy old business.
