Clay pottery is not inherently toxic or harmful, as long as it is properly glazed and fired. Glazing and firing the pottery creates a protective barrier that prevents any harmful substances from leaching into food or drink. However, unglazed pottery can potentially leach harmful substances into food or drink, so it is not recommended for use with consumables. In general, properly glazed and fired clay pottery is safe for use with food and drink, but it is not edible. **

Clay for pottery can be found in various locations such as riverbanks, lakeshores, and other natural bodies of water where sediment has accumulated over time. It can also be found in areas with rich soil and in regions with volcanic activity. Additionally, some art supply stores and pottery supply shops sell pre-processed clay for pottery making. **

Clay is a natural material that is soft and malleable when wet, but hardens when dried or fired. Pottery, on the other hand, is the art or craft of making objects out of clay that are then fired at high temperatures to create a durable, ceramic material. In essence, clay is the raw material used to create pottery, while pottery refers to the finished product after the clay has been shaped, dried, and fired. **

For pottery with children, air-dry clay is often the best option. Air-dry clay is easy to work with, doesn't require a kiln for firing, and is non-toxic, making it safe for children to use. It also dries quickly, allowing kids to see the results of their work sooner. Additionally, air-dry clay is usually more affordable than other types of clay, making it a practical choice for children's pottery projects. **

Firing clay into pottery without a kiln is possible, but it requires an alternative method such as pit firing or using a bonfire. In pit firing, the pottery is placed in a pit along with combustible materials and then set on fire. The intense heat from the fire helps to harden and strengthen the clay, turning it into pottery. However, this method may not produce the same consistent results as a kiln, and the pottery may not be as durable. It's important to note that firing pottery without a kiln requires careful monitoring and may not be suitable for all types of clay and pottery projects. **

Yes, you can make clay for pottery by yourself. One common method is to mix together clay soil, water, and a binding agent such as sand or straw. The mixture is then kneaded and worked until it reaches the desired consistency. Another method involves using powdered clay and mixing it with water to form a workable clay body. There are many resources and tutorials available online that provide detailed instructions for making clay for pottery at home. **

It is not recommended to mix expanded clay and clay plant granules together. Expanded clay is a lightweight, porous material used for aeration and drainage in soil, while clay plant granules are typically used for moisture retention and as a soil amendment. Mixing these two types of materials together can result in an inconsistent soil structure and may not provide the intended benefits for plant growth. It's best to use each material separately for their specific purposes in soil composition. **

No, this is not clay. **