32 Steps from Clay to Creation: A Glimpse into Claydogpots.com Pottery Studio

Welcome, fellow art enthusiasts and lovers of handmade goods! Have you ever wondered about the journey a simple lump of clay takes to become a beautiful, functional piece of pottery? Today, we are thrilled to offer you a peek behind the scenes, a glimpse into our little studio right here in Lutz, Florida, and the magical transformation that happens within its walls.

It all starts with the clay, and there are as many as 32 steps from wet clay to a fired and finished piece of pottery. Before we can even think about shaping something beautiful, the clay needs preparation. This first crucial step is called wedging. Think of it like kneading dough, but with the purpose of removing air bubbles and ensuring a consistent moisture level throughout the clay. This prevents cracking during the firing process and makes the clay much easier to work with on the wheel.

Next comes the mesmerizing part: throwing on the wheel. Centering the clay on the spinning wheel takes practice and a gentle touch. Slowly but surely, guided by our hands, the form begins to emerge – a cylinder, a bowl, maybe even the start of a unique vase. Each piece takes on its own personality as we coax it into shape.

Once the piece has taken its initial form, it needs to dry slightly before trimming. This involves carefully carving away excess clay from the bottom to refine the shape and create a foot ring. This not only makes the piece more aesthetically pleasing but also ensures it sits nicely. With the piece bone dry it is time for the first firing in the process. Every piece created is fired up to around 2,000 degrees in what we refer to as a bisque fire. This intense heat transforms the delicate, unfired clay into durable ceramic. After the first firing has completed and the ware is cool, we prepare the piece for the Glazing process.

Now for the color and character! This is where glazing comes in. The methods of applying glaze to bisque ware is a selective process and every potter has a variety of their own techniques to achieve their style. Brushing, dipping pouring and spraying are a few of the more common way. Our personal preference is dipping and pouring. No matter the technique employed it is with an element of delightful surprise. The true colors and textures often only reveal themselves after the high temperatures of the kiln transform the glaze. It is a fascinating and sometimes unpredictable process!

Finally, the moment of truth: glaze firing in the kiln. This is where the magic happens. It also melts the glaze, bringing out its vibrant colors and unique effects. Opening the kiln after a firing is always an exciting moment – seeing how each piece has transformed is truly rewarding.

Each piece that comes out of our Lutz studio is a testament to this hands-on process. From the initial lump of earth to the final glazed creation, every step is infused with care and attention to detail. By supporting handmade ceramics, you are not just acquiring an object; you are connecting with the artistry and dedication that goes into each unique piece.

We hope this little glimpse into our studio has given you a greater appreciation for the craft of pottery. If you have any questions about our process or are interested in a custom piece, do not hesitate to reach out! Stay tuned for more insights into the world of clay.

Jack
claydogpots@gmail.com