We were all eagerly waiting to start our pottery workshop and after a short questions and answers session Estelle demonstrated the first steps for us.

First, we had to roll out the clay using the wooden guides for the thickness.  The clay was then cut out using the template and a pottery knife. Following that we used our textured material (wallpaper/lace) and rolled that onto the cut out clay.

We made some “slip” by adding water to small pieces of clay.   We cross hatched the pieces to be joined and then used the slip as a glue to hold together.

After adjusting the basket shape, we made a handle and attached to the basket using the slip.  We then could make buttons or ornaments to decorate the basket.

The basket would have to dry out before the first firing and then Estelle will glaze the “biscuit ware” and refire to a temperature of 1200-1250 degrees centigrade, which is called stoneware.

We all did have such an enjoyable morning and very pleased with our finished baskets.  We are keeping fingers crossed they come out of the kiln as they went in.

Margaret was unable to join us on the day, so she made 3 delightful houses separately which will be fired and finished off when ready.

Best wishes, Sue

---

Click top half of any photo for full size and quality. Scroll using < > symbols. Swipe left/right on touch screens.

---