Bowls and Dishes

After a trip to the dentist where I was given expensive news, plus paying quarterly taxes today (which is always sad; not to forget that I'm out of work) I've been reminded that pottery is the best part of my life these days. My slipware class started Tuesday. Ron is an incredible teacher; I am learning volumes.

On Tuesday I also made a great pottery discovery. Earthenware clay! At first, I didn't like the color, but the malleability and softness of it quickly won me over. Made my FIRST plate and an incredible bowl in just a short amount of time. I'm so pleased and a bit proud. Once again, I'm amazed that I made these (pictured above; all are patiently drying a bit before they can be trimmed. :)

I'm so thankful to be a potter. I definitely need to work on creating designs. This is a whole new chapter and dimension in pottery for me. First about the class. Earthenware clay fires at cone 5, I think. Only clear or amber glaze. Black or white slip.

Ron brought in some of his pots to show us different techniques.... the sgraffitto, dipping, and the tool are all different for me. He makes it look so easy. Some slip trailing (I think that's what it's called). Still learning the vocabulary.

A different technique for applying slip. First make rings of the slip close to each other and then drag your tool down them towards the center. (Hard to describe). Neat effect.
This shows just how to dip the pots into the bucket filled with slip. Twisting your hand helps. Once again, Ron makes it look so easy.

Using your finger to etch designs also helps too to create texture.

Or a fork. :)

A blurry picture, but this is all done with finger etching or a fork.

After Ron's demo, I decided to try the new clay. THIS, this is a soup-bowl. I'm so amazed.
And my first plate, ever! :) Now, my goal of making a whole set of plates and bowls seems more achievable.
A bigger bowl. :) I think this clay likes me. I certainly like it.

All in all, I'm still hoping for a wonderful 2009.