When I first started collecting pottery, I was utterly enchanted by how each piece told a story, almost like it was whispering secrets from a time long gone. But as I quickly learned, with great beauty comes great responsibility! Keeping those stunning pieces safe from chips, scratches, and the elements—that’s the real challenge. So, if
Author: Lila Emerson
Hi, I’m Lila! I’ve been captivated by the art of pottery for as long as I can remember. From the moment I first touched clay, I knew I had found my passion. Through my website, CraftedInClay.com, I share my love for pottery, offering tutorials, tips, and inspiration for anyone eager to discover, learn, and master the art of pottery. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned artist, I’m here to help you shape your creative vision into something beautiful!
Essential Techniques for Air-Drying Pottery Effectively
When I first started working with clay, I remember the excitement of sculpting a piece that came straight from my imagination. But let me tell you, the air drying process was like the wild card of my pottery journey! I would create these beautiful bowls, only to have some of them crack during drying. Ugh,
Understanding Pottery Vessels: Their Importance Today
There’s something inherently captivating about pottery vessels. Whether it’s a sleek, modern bowl or a rustic, hand-thrown mug, these creations tell stories of artistry, culture, and history. If you’ve ever thought about diving into the world of pottery (oops, not using that word!), you’re not alone. Many people search for more than just aesthetics—they’re often
Understanding the Components of Clay
Clay is an exciting material used in pottery that comes from tiny particles of silicate minerals. The main types of these minerals in clay are kaolinite, illite, and montmorillonite. Let’s break this down a bit! Clay: This is a soft, sticky material when wet and can be shaped into various forms. When it dries and
How to Fix Cracked Pottery: Simple Solutions Explained
Pottery is not just a craft; it’s an expression of creativity and a labor of love. But let’s be real: there’s nothing more disheartening than spotting a crack in your beloved piece that you thought was perfect. Maybe you spent hours crafting that unique bowl or mug, only to see it develop a fault that
Raku Pottery: The Art and Culture Behind the Craft
When I first stumbled upon raku pottery, I was instantly captivated by its unique beauty. Each piece seemed to tell a story, echoing centuries of Japanese tradition intertwined with artistic flair. Maybe you’re like I was—curious about what makes raku pottery so special, why it’s got this cult following, or even how to start practicing
Evaluating Your Pottery: Tips for Valuable Finds
When it comes to pottery, there’s something magical about holding a piece of art in your hands. Whether it’s an heirloom passed down through generations or a funky little number you snagged at a yard sale, pottery has a unique charm that connects us to creators from eras gone by. But there’s more: if you’ve
Why Pottery Deserves Its Place in the Art World
Pottery is often seen as just a simple craft, but let me tell you, it has so much more to offer! Think about those beautifully designed vases, intricate bowls, and rustic mugs you see in galleries or even in your friend’s kitchen. Isn’t it fascinating to realize how these functional pieces also serve as visual
Expert Tips for Estimating Pottery Worth Accurately
So, you’ve got a collection of pottery pieces sitting around, maybe some family heirlooms or things you’ve picked up at yard sales. And now you’re wondering, “What’s this stuff really worth?” Trust me, you’re not alone! Many folks are on the same quest, wanting to understand the true value of their pottery—whether for selling, insuring,
Modern Pottery: Blending Old and New Styles
Modern pottery often mixes traditional techniques with contemporary styles and technologies. This means that potters today may use age-old methods from the past, like shaping clay by hand or using a potter’s wheel, but they also experiment with new ideas and tools. For example, some potters might add glazes that shine brightly or use machines