Life update: You haven't seen me around these parts much because I spend all my free time with my toddler (he's the best), but lately I've been carving out some time for myself (also the best!). My crafty lady friend and I started attending the recently relaunched Clay Night at Sticky Art Lab and it has been both an outlet for creativity and a lesson in self-care. Here's a look at what the past few months/sessions looked like.
The first two Clay Nights were all about playing and building! It was structured as 'open play,' but Sticky staff were also around to provide instruction and answer questions.
I wanted to make functional-ish pieces. I ended up making a bowl with lid, mushroom pedestal stand, hanging planter, Jack-o-lantern votive candle holder, napkin ring/giant bead, heart dish, and spoon rest. Plus, a decorative bow ornament.
My friend gathered some fun tools to use, too, and created these beauties.
After a successful trip to the kiln, it was time to glaze! This is where I set my expectations aside because it's always a bit of a mystery as to what you'll get after your pieces get fired once more. Sticky had an assortment of glazes available including some with a more satin finish.
Before and after glaze!
PS I also started teaching again at Sticky so I get BTS access to the back room. Here's a little peek into the clay zone.
And the big reveal! Not every piece was a success (the container with lid didn't work out and the darker glaze was definitely not what I was expecting), but I did learn a few things, have a better understanding of what works (and what doesn't), and have some ideas for what do next!
I'm so excited for the napkin ring and spoon rest. I love the matte rose and gloss white glazes the most. The next batch will most definitely have more of this combo.
I made a test macrame cord for the hanging planter. I'd like to do a version 2.0 - make it bigger and use thicker rope.
I call this my Valentine's collection. I could make hearts all day!
But the award for most exciting piece in this batch goes to my pumpkin! Imagine it with a flickering candle all lit up for Halloween.
This whole process was calming for me - a safe and supportive space to create, make mistakes, and share good conversation with my friend (and new friends, too)! I look forward to all the 2024 Clay Night hangs. Perhaps I'll experiment with clay forms, use fancy carving tools, and maybe even create a collection of sorts!
Happy almost new year! May it be your craftiest one yet!
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