Hand Made Pottery in Nicaragua: Doing it the old fashioned way

The process of making Nicaraguan pottery starts with the selection of the right barro, or clay. The barro is sourced from the country's many rivers and lakes, and is prized for its quality and ability to retain colors and designs when fired. The barro is then processed to remove impurities and to prepare it for use, often by soaking it in water to soften it, or mixing it with other materials to improve its workability.

Once the barro has been prepared, the potter then uses the traditional pisada technique to mix the clay, which involves kneading it with their feet. This helps to evenly distribute the moisture throughout the clay, making it easier to work with and less prone to cracking during the drying process.

The potter then forms the barro into the desired shape, either by hand molding or using a potter's wheel. The formed piece is then left to dry before being painted. Hand painting is a common method for decorating the pottery, and the potter may use a brush or their fingers to apply the paint, using natural pigments such as crushed minerals or plant materials.

Finally, the pottery is fired in a traditional kiln, which is usually fueled by wood or other organic materials. The firing process is crucial, as it determines the strength, color, and durability of the final product. After firing, the pottery is cooled and then polished to a high shine, often using natural substances such as sand or ash.

In conclusion, the process of making Nicaraguan pottery involves the careful selection and preparation of the barro, the use of traditional techniques such as the pisada method and hand painting, and the firing of the pottery in a traditional kiln. These methods help to create a unique and authentic product that reflects the country's cultural heritage and provides a connection to the past.

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