Sgraffito (in Italian “to scratch”) is a decorating pottery technique produced by applying layers of color or colors (underglazes or colored slips) to leather hard pottery and then scratching off parts of the layer(s) to create contrasting images, patterns and texture and reveal the clay color underneath. Sgraffito on walls has been used in Europe since classical times, it was popularized in Italy in the 15th and 16th centuries and can be found in African art.
Lana Wilson’s layered slip and sgraffito surfaces are beautiful and unique. Below you’ll find a great time-lapsed video excerpt from her popular video Handbuilding with Color and Texture. You’ll also find a great video by Kathy King that Gives Helpful Tips For Using Sgraffito in Your Work