A
slip is a suspension in water of clay and/or other materials used in the production of
ceramic ware.
Deflocculant, such as
sodium silicate, can be added to the slip to disperse the raw material particles. This allows a higher solids content to be used, or allows a fluid slip to be produced with the a minimum of water so that drying shrinkage is minimised, which is important during
slipcasting. Usually the mixing of slip is undertaken in a
blunger although it can be done using other types of mixers or even by hand.