The latest in pottery

 We have been firing every two to three weeks. Our goal is to try to get orders back to a 4-6 week delivery time. Now that our shop is open 4 days a week, we will need to make pots to restock the shelves as well.

I had an order for a Bull piggy bank. They buyer didn't want white with black spots so we settled on this combination. I am really pleased with the results. They raise cattle so this is going to be sitting in their kitchen. 

This glaze is so hard to photograph. I thought it would be easier outside but I still got the reflection of the trees and sky. We have a dulling spray for photographing shiny glazes. I think I will give that a try to get some better photos before he is off to his new home.

I hadn't made coasters in a long time. A friend of a collector contacted us and ordered a set to give her as a gift. Once I am in the rhythm of making these, I like to make a bunch. The bottoms are covered with cork to protect furniture. I hope to get more in the next firing. They are great for filling up space. They can be stacked on top of each other since the glaze is only on the interior.

 

The weather has been so nice here in Seagrove, that it's been difficult to stay inside and work. The gardens are constantly calling us!

Slowly coasting along...

When the holiday rush was over I found two coasters that were forgotten. They were wrapped in plastic and still leather hard. I had been trying to talk myself into braving the cold studio and getting some work done. Opportunity was calling my name! I got out there, applied some slip and once they were dry enough, carved a design. I was so proud of myself for finally getting something done. Jeff laughed because there were only two, and I wimped out with a simple design. Cut me some slack... it was really cold in the studio!

After the bisque firing I applied liquid wax to the rims and then filled in the carving with Amaco's Jet Black Velvet Underglaze.

Once the underglaze was dry, I wiped over it with a damp sponge. I am not too fussy with the clean up. Most won't show through the glaze. When it does, I don't mind the "blurry" look.

I poured the glaze on to the coasters, quickly pouring off the excess. If any spots get on the rim I just wipe it up with a damp sponge.

They came out of the kiln on Monday, so now I have a complete set of........TWO.

With our new heater in the studio we should be able to be more productive on a regular basis this month. Coasters are on my "to make" list.

PS... Thought you might like to see how we treat the backs of our coasters. Cork buttons with adhesive backing. They come in a large roll and are relatively inexpensive. I believe they came from Widgetco.

coasting along to the finish line...