Anyone who has ever imagined plunging bare hands into cool, moist clay and shaping it into a vase, platter, or tile can now experience the pleasure of pottery. Lifelong potter Bill van Gilder has a bounty of time-tested advice on all the basics, and a plethora of fantastic techniques. That means novices will enjoy the advantages of a master teacher guiding them through each stage of the process-while intermediates will eagerly soak up every new idea he has to offer. With van Gilder’s help, beginners can try hand building, and progress onto the fundamentals of wheel-throwing. They’ll get expert tips on shaping spouts, handles and feet; adding texture, color, and luster; and combining techniques to create a variety of attractive projects.