My latest batch of pots is small but I was anxious to see the results of some tests. Also Circle Craft shop is waiting for some new work so I’ve made half a dozen new jugbirds.
My main concern was to see if a new-to-me white earthenware clay would have similar shrinkage to D’Arcy’s redart clay, and if my preferred clear glaze would fit both. Yes! The new clay is Pottery Supply House 400 so I’ll have to see if I can buy it from a local supplier or order it from Ontario. Below is a photo of a bowl I made to test its throwing and carving properties. The Mayco Clear One glaze, fired to cone 05, is good, making the white slightly yellow. The vase is a mixture of PSH400 and D’Arcy’s and they shrink equally.
I also made a couple of wee slab plates to test the white clay with my slips, and with underglazes. The Raiders are wondering if I have a good clay for plate-painting once more.
I had a couple of carved bowls in this firing. I’ve painted the insides with coloured slips but just sprayed the outsides with the slips. I didn’t want to paint all those grooves and I do like the effect.
Finally, there are six new jugbirds.
Possibly my favourite pot in this batch, a comfortable big mug for tea, in my favourite colours. btw thank you Shelley for the use of your kiln for bisque and glaze firings for this lot.
Now I’ve cleaned out my wheel’s splash pan and have fished out the cone 10 Georgie’s Umpqua and Plainsman H555 to start work on my 2 cu feet of ware for a soda firing in May. I was on the waiting list and have secured a spot in the team firing then. Excited!
Love your explorations and I think you’re enjoying it, as well. Bravo!!
Oh yes Jan! and thanks.