Basic Pottery Repair
by Bob Brooke

Pottery has been an important part of everyday life for centuries. Early man found that certain types of clay, when heated and prepared properly, could be formed into durable and useful objects and figurines. From common utility and cooking pots to vases to one-of-a-kind figurines and such, pottery has remained at the forefront of every major household throughout the world. Whether it’s a priceless antique or a sentimental heirloom, most families have at least one piece they treasure.

But all pottery has one consistent flaw—it breaks. If a piece breaks in say two or three pieces, it’s not the end of the world. However, if it shatters, it might as well be.

And just as pottery breaks, it can be repaired. If it’s a simple break, it most likely can be glued back together as a do-it-yourself project. However, if it shatters, it’s best to seek out the service of a professional pottery restorer.

As pottery ages, its monetary and sentimental value increases. Unfortunately, so does the number and types of cracks and chips that may appear. This invariably creates small cracks or chips in the surface that may affect not only the aesthetic appeal, but the overall value of the piece. Fortunately, most pottery can be repaired with a little tender loving care.

Basic Pottery Repair
Basic pottery repair involves gluing the broken pieces back together. Unfortunately, most people use the wrong type of glue and don’t take the necessary care to do it right.

If a piece is newly broken, then the pieces don’t require any preparation. However, if the piece has broken before and was repaired, the pieces must be cleaned of all previous glue.

Pottery is porous and as such soaks up any glue used to hold it together. Before starting, remove any old glue, clean thoroughly, and remove all loose particles. Before starting the repair, make sure parts are thoroughly dry. Cover working area with sheets of paper to avoid damage to the surface being worked on.

Basically, there are two types of glue that can be used to repair pottery. For one or two simple breaks on porous earthenware that won’t be getting wet, Elmer’s Glue is fine. Put a small amount on the full length of one side of the broken piece. Place it against the edge of the pot from which it broke. Using a slight but even pressure, gently rub the pieces back and forth until they form a tight fit. Very gently wipe off the excess glue on both the inside and outside of the pot with a damp paper towel, then use a small piece of removable blue painter’s tape to hold the piece to the pot while the glue sets. Make sure to glue only one piece at a time. Patience is the key here.

Once the glue has set on the first piece, gently fit the remaining ones together without glue to make sure that there are no gaps. Then proceed with the second piece. Once the first one is set, it’s usually easier to glue one or two pieces in the next step.

Advanced Pottery Repair
For pieces that will be getting wet with use or will be used outdoors, a two-part clear epoxy is a quick dry glue that works well. Unfortunately, it does dry in about three minutes, so there’s little time to apply and adjust the pieces. "Dry run" the order of cementing the pieces to determine the order of gluing them together.

Epoxy comes in two tubes—one of the glue and one of the setting agent. Mix equal parts of the epoxy together—only enough for one or two pieces. Once the pieces are together, the glue will set very quickly, so it’s possible to glue one or two pieces at a time.

For large planters or earthenware pots used for plants outdoors, clear Gorilla Glue is a good solution. This glue is very strong and waterproof. The difference with this glue compared to other glues is that the surface of the receiving edge must be wet first. A very small amount of glue is then applied to the edge of the broken piece. It’s important not to put more than a very small amount on the edge of the broken piece as the glue expands as it sets. Be sure to wipe any excess from the glued joint and tape it together with the blue painter’s tape.

Using an Antique Pottery Restorer
For antique pottery that’s especially valuable, it’s a good idea to use the service of an antique pottery restoration expert. While the service won’t be cheap, it’s worth it in the long run to maintain the antique value of the piece.

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