SCRAPER. A piece of barrel stave or heavy wire bent like a croquet wicket with a wire fastened from end to end is particularly convenient where a number of clay or plasticene tiles are to be produced. For class use two strips of wood are fastened to the bench, the desired width separating the strips. Between these strips a piece of strong paper should be laid and the clay or plasticene pressed firmly onto it between the strips. The scraper will shave the surplus clay if it is moved along so that the wire rests on the wooden strips. Measure off the six-inch or eight-inch squares, cut across with a knife from strip to strip and remove the squares by sliding the paper out. This will give a smooth, even surface on which to model or incise designs.
THE OTHER ITEMS OF EQUIPMENT all have their part to play as follows:
- 2 large spoons—For handling plaster and cement.
- 1 large file or rasp—For occasional use on the tile edge.
- 3 pieces of glass—On which to cast tiles.
- 2 table knives—For paring molds, etc.
- 1 palette knife—For working color into cement.
- 1 bristle brush—With which to oil molds.
- Small modeling tool—To use on clay and plasticene.
- Nut picks—For incising.
- ½ doz. small saucers—In which to mix colors.
- Thin soft wire—For cutting molds.
- Sifter—To sift cement and color for glazes.
- 2 pails—In which to mix cement and plaster.
- Muller and pestle—Grinding mineral colors with cement.
It may be unnecessary to add that the old axiom “A place for everything and everything in its place,” will do wonders toward keeping the temper sweet, and a good temper is a most necessary ingredient for producing good cement handicraft.
