ClayCraft

O neof the many aspects I enjoy about working on ClayCraft is that we’ll show you things, warts and all. Tracey’s failed casserole dish in the last issue is a great example of that, as is Jacqui Atkin’s realisation that two pieces of a template could be cut from one piece of clay (see the planter project on page 22). Every potter makes mistakes, or has disasters, it’s not a phenomenon peculiar to beginners, and this month Doug tells us that one of Hannah’s firings resulted in three pieces of new work exploding because of a power supply interruption. As he said, “There are no words of comfort in these situations; I’ve experienced such things many times myself. All I could do was hold her while she sobbed. It was…

Eat, drink, shop exquisite British craft and get involved in craft workshops, demonstrations, and talk programmes in the historic setting of Waterperry Gardens. The hugely anticipated festival will be returning on 23-26 June at Waterperry Gardens, allowing visitors to meet over 120 makers throughout the festival. From handcrafted jewellery, ceramics and glass to textiles, sculptures and interior accessories, visitors will be able to find plenty of inspirational ideas for themselves and as gifts, and meet the makers. The exhibitor list is updated weekly at: handmadeinbritain.co.uk From tempting BBQ treats and artisan gin to delicious vegan-friendly dishes, the wide range of artisan food and drinks will ensure there is something for everyone in the family. Live music performances from local artists are scheduled throughout the festival. Visitors will be able to…

This summer and autumn, Somerset-based creative learning space Clayhill Arts brings together an eclectic programme of courses and masterclasses, many inspired by nature and the environment. Running from May until October the programme includes everything from nature photography, smoke fired ceramics and charcoal making and drawing, to automata, computer game design and children’s book illustration. SMOKE-FIRED CERAMICS WITH RANJIT DHALIWAL – 2-4 August This hands-on introduction to smoke-fired ceramics is led by designer-maker Ranjit Dahliwal. Utilising natural materials and the unique outdoor environment at Clayhill Arts, Ranjit will guide participants through the meticulous process of building a kiln and explore the effects of organic matter on ceramic pieces using the magic of smoke. Reclaimed from an old farm overlooking the Quantock Hills, Clayhill Arts is an alternative art school with…

Kara shares her journey to becoming a professional potter and how she is practicing pottery to incorporate mindfulness into everyday life. Her beginner-friendly pottery projects will encourage readers to take a moment to focus on themselves while also rewarding them with stunning pottery pieces perfect for adding a touch of mindfulness into personal spaces or for gifting to loved ones. Unlike that morning commute into the office, clay can’t be rushed. In her first-ever pottery book, professional potter Kara Leigh Ford invites readers to slow down and step back from their busy lives through the meditative process of creating pottery. Each thoughtful project presents an opportunity to return and test out new skills and creative choices, like using different coloured glazes, which encourages growth and exploration. Hobbyists of all levels…

Before the modern pub as we know it today was commonplace, beer would be sold from what we would call minibreweries, made on the premises and served to customers from ceramic jugs. This practice was common in the 14th century through to the 19th century. Then in 1830 the Beer Act made it legal to sell alcohol by licence for the price of one guinea. Taverns or Ale Houses can be traced back to the Romans and the Anglo Saxons. Now, as a special promotion, ale jugs are due for a comeback. Kent master potters Billy Byles and Alan Parris have just completed a special commission to make 700 such jugs, all by hand like the originals. Alan commented, “each jug takes 20 minutes to throw on the potter’s wheel then…

You will need: ■ Clay – stoneware or earthenware, colour of choice ■ Tools for throwing – water bowl, sponge, cutting wire, ribs ■ Turning tool ■ Glazes of choice to fit clay type ■ Trailing bottle with fine nozzle ■ Fan brush and fine liner A reminder when throwing – to save wordy repetition! Always compress the clay at the rim after each lift – pinch the rim gently between your fingers and thumb, at the same time resting the forefinger of your other hand on the rim and applying gentle pressure THROWING THE JUG Working directly on the wheel head, barely dampen the surface then position your clay for the jug at the centre and pat it down to ensure it stays in place. Centre the clay by…