Brandee Ross

Website Redesign

2012-01-25T21:54:00.000-05:00

I began redesigning my main site this week and it went live tonight. Some content is still being added, but everything is working so check it out and let me know what you think.

This blog has also been updated to coordinate with the new site.

Find my work at Firebrick Gallery & Pottery Studio

2012-01-10T13:00:00.000-05:00

January through the end of April is my "off season" from local farmers markets and other events. I'm busy in my studio creating new pieces. Check out my Facebook site for more details!

If you are looking for a special gift, please visit Firebrick Gallery & Pottery Studio. The gallery features my pottery as well as other beautiful, one-of-a-kind artwork from Michigan artists.

Firebrick Gallery & Pottery Studio

404 S. Main Street

Rochester, MI 48307

Phone: 248.650.2500

Monday – Closed

Tuesday-Wednesday – 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Thursday-Saturday – 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Sunday – 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM

You can also contact me directly at info@brandeeross.com for information about current stock or to place an order.

Thank you for your support and I hope your 2012 is off to a great start!

Farmington Holly Days

2011-12-01T22:15:00.002-05:00

Get that warm, nostalgic feeling of old as you stroll through Downtown Farmington listening to carolers, sampling freshly baked cookies while sipping hot chocolate.

Visit the Greens & Gifts Market in the Sundquist Pavilion and find artisans and crafters selling unique holiday gifts.

There will be a visit from Santa and activities for all the kids to enjoy.

Farmington Holly Days
December 3, 2011 - Saturday
33113 Grand River Avenue
Farmington, MI 48336
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Custom Orders with Acorns

2011-11-15T12:46:00.001-05:00

Every now and then I get an unusual request for custom pottery, like this acorn pitcher and butter dome. The acorns were sculpted by hand and the oak leaves were applied using slip trailing.

In a another week or so they will be dry enough for the bisque firing, and then the final glaze firing. I can't wait to see how they look completed!

Downtown Farmington Farmers & Artisans Market – Saturday, November 19

2011-11-13T21:00:00.003-05:00

I will be selling my pottery at the Farmington Farmers & Artisans Market this Saturday.

Downtown Farmington
Farmers & Artisans Market
Saturday – November 19, 2011
9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

33316 Grand River Avenue
Farmington, MI 48366

This is the last Farmington market of the season… just in time to pick up a perfect, one-of-a-kind handmade gift for someone special on your list!

Westacres 37th Annual Craft Fair: Saturday – November 5, 2011

2011-11-03T22:08:00.002-04:00

I will be selling my pottery at the Westacres Craft Fair Saturday.

Westacres 37th Annual Craft Fair
Saturday – November 5, 2011
11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Westacres Clubhouse
3700 Westacres Drive
West Bloomfield, MI 48324

This annual event features only hand-made items from 30 artisans. There is a $2.00 admission fee, and a portion of those proceeds will be donated to Leader Dogs for the Blind.

Goblets & Stemmed Bowls

2011-10-25T23:32:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow, these goblet and stemmed bowls components should be ready for trimming and assembling.

October Greenware

2011-10-20T19:17:00.001-04:00

I spent hours putting handles on pots this week: oval casseroles, serving platter, mugs... To break up the routine, I threw some squared plates for a commissioned order.

My application for the Westacres Craft Fair has been accepted. Stop by and see what's new in person!

November 5, 2011 - Saturday
Westacres 37th Annual Craft Fair
3700 Westacres Drive
West Bloomfield, MI 48324

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Extra Large Platter

2011-10-15T22:24:00.000-04:00

Today I trimmed and added handles to several platters I had thrown earlier in the week. After reclaiming scraps, I was left with a fair amount of soft clay--perfect for throwing this extra large platter. Shown with a 12" ruler for scale, the diameter is 16". Once it makes it through two rounds of firings, it will shrink to around 14.5".

New from the Kiln

2011-10-11T15:07:00.000-04:00

I'll have lots of new pieces at the farmers market this Thursday, including: teapot with optional sugar/creamer set, covered butter dish (also work great for roasting garlic), garlic keepers, butter crocks and a beautiful charcoal-glazed covered casserole.

If you don't follow me on Facebook, you might have missed this week's big news. I'm officially a full time potter and part-time printer/designer as of next week! I'll still be working at the print shop two days a week, but I look forward to devoting more time to doing what I truly love: making more pots.

A special thank you to my husband, who has supported my creative journey and doesn't look at me like I've lost my mind when I tell him I want to cut back my hours and steady income. I love you!

Glaze Firing No. 29 (Bailey)

2011-10-06T08:46:00.008-04:00

Cone 5

"Slow Glaze" Program
20 Minute Hold
Started: 7:13 PM
Completed: 6:13 AM - 11.00 Hours
(controller reading)

Harvest Happening Aftermath

2011-10-02T17:44:00.000-04:00

I have done a fair amount of shows now and I have never went home with a broken piece. Today, the crafter to my left had a large wooden shelving unit tip over in the wind. ONTO MY TABLE OF POTTERY. The pottery that was lucky enough to fall on the grass was fine, but over $200 worth of work was ruined when her shelves crushed it. Somehow her meager apology isn't making me feel any better.

Come see me next week at the Oakland County Farmers Market, where I will be inside and away from wind. Thanks to everyone who came out and supported me today, I really appreciate it!

RESCHEDULED - Sunday, October 2

2011-10-01T08:48:00.000-04:00

The Harvest Happening has been RESCHEDULED for Sunday, October 2 due to inclement weather!

25th Annual Harvest Happening
Sunday - October 2, 2011
11:00am - 5:00pm

Hess-Hathaway Park
825 S. Williams Lake Road
Waterford, MI 48327

This annual event is exciting for the entire family. The day is filled with a variety of activities and events including: hayrides, bake sale, pony rides, crafters, entertainment, farm animals, food concessions, historical house tour and historical activities such as spinning, felting, storytelling and rope making. We will have a children’s area with inflatables, kid’s rides, pumpkin patch, make and take crafts, puppet show and magic by Ronald McDonald.

Harvest Happening - Saturday, October 1

2011-09-30T08:28:00.002-04:00

I will be at the 25th Annual Harvest Happening this Saturday.

25th Annual Harvest Happening
Saturday, October 1, 2011
11:00am - 5:00pm
Rain Date: Sunday, October 2, 2011
Inclement Weather Line 248.618.7671

Hess-Hathaway Park
825 S. Williams Lake Road
Waterford, MI 48327

This annual event is exciting for the entire family. The day is filled with a variety of activities and events including: hayrides, bake sale, pony rides, crafters, entertainment, farm animals, food concessions, historical house tour and historical activities such as spinning, felting, storytelling and rope making. We will have a children’s area with inflatables, kid’s rides, pumpkin patch, make and take crafts, puppet show and magic by Ronald McDonald.

Bisque Firing No. 21 (Bailey)

2011-09-28T07:06:00.000-04:00

Cone 04

"Slow Bisque" Program
5 Minute Hold
Started: 3:43 PM
Completed: 6:13 AM - 14:30 Hours (controller reading)

People’s Arts Festival – August 27 & 28

2011-08-26T15:54:00.002-04:00

I will be at the 5th annual People’s Arts Festival this weekend.

August 27, 2011 – Saturday from 11 AM – Midnight

August 28, 2011 – Sunday from 11 AM – 6 PM

Location: Russel Industrial Center

1600 Clay Avenue

Detroit, MI 48211

The festival at the Russell Industrial Center is the largest free arts festival in Detroit and brings local artists together to share handcrafted works of art, fashion, live music and independent film. It’s a great event and a lot of fun so definitely check it out!

Glaze Firing No. 28 (bailey)

2011-08-25T19:20:00.000-04:00

Cone 5

"Slow Glaze" Program
20 Minute Hold
Started: ~7:30 PM
Completed: ~6:54 AM - 11.24 Hours
(controller reading)

Glaze Firing No. 27 (Bailey)

2011-08-23T07:17:00.000-04:00

Cone 5

"Slow Glaze" Program
20 Minute Hold
Started: 5:32 PM
Completed: 4:36 AM - 11.09 Hours
(controller reading)

As soon as the kiln cools, I'll be loading it up for another glaze firing. I should have just enough time to get two firings in before PAF this weekend.

Bisque Firing No. 2 (Olympic)

2011-08-18T15:34:00.000-04:00

Cone 04

"Slow Bisque" Program
5 Minute Hold
Started: 7:13 PM
Completed: 8:21 AM - 13.08 Hours (controller reading)

A late night visit from DTE Energy interrupted power during this firing for about 10 minutes. After testing, it was determined we are experiencing some loss of power/fluctuation in our line. The kiln picked up almost where it left off and finished its firing within minutes of its normal time.

Push for PAF

2011-08-17T21:51:00.000-04:00

With the 2011 People's Arts Festival less than two weeks away, I'm in super production mode two squeeze in one to two more glaze firings before the event. The big kiln is currently cooling from a bisque firing and the small kiln is climbing toward 1945° F with a few more pieces. And just for fun, I've made eight matching plates and starting working on new butter holders that also make great garlic roasters!

I will be at the farmers market tomorrow with some new pieces, including some berry bowls in a smaller size and a hot/cold dip bowl. You fill the bottom portion with hot water or ice and it will keep your dip at the perfect temperature at your next get-together:

The two pieces can also be used individually. Here is some more recently finished work:

Don't forget to mark your calendar for PAF. There are over 140 artists this year, plus over 40 musical acts, free films and food vendors. I have a feeling it's going to be even better than 2010!

August 27, 2011 - Saturday
August 28, 2011 - Sunday

5th Annual People's Arts Festival
Booth #34
Russel Industrial Center
1600 Clay Avenue
Detroit, MI 48211

Saturday 11:00 AM - Midnight
Sunday 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Bisque Firing No. 20 (Bailey)

2011-08-17T21:21:00.000-04:00

Cone 04

"Slow Bisque" Program
5 Minute Hold
Started: 6:30 PM
Completed: 8:12 AM - 13.42 Hours (controller reading)

Glaze Firing No. 2 (Olympic)

2011-08-12T23:06:00.001-04:00

Cone 5

"Slow Glaze" Program

18 Minute Hold
Started: 10:09 PM
Completed: 5:54 AM - 7.45 Hours

I am really enjoying this new kiln. So far, the fired results are the same as my larger kiln with one difference: I can unload pots much faster because the cool down time is so much shorter.

Bisque Firing No. 1 (Olympic)

2011-08-06T23:30:00.010-04:00

Cone 04

"Slow Bisque" Program
5 Minute Hold
Started: 10:26 AM
Completed: 11:47 PM - 13:19 Hours

Glaze Firing No. 1 (Olympic)

2011-08-04T22:54:00.000-04:00

What's the best way to find out how the new kiln works? Fill it up with an order due tomorrow and hope for the best!

Cone 5

"Slow Glaze" Program
6 Minute Hold
Started: 2:45 PM
Completed: 10:20 PM - ~6.25 Hours

Breaking in the New Kiln

2011-08-03T23:46:00.000-04:00

Initial Firing Completed: Olympic Freedom 1414HE

Cone 06
"Fast Glaze" Program
Started: 7:17 PM
Completed: 11:14 PM - 3.56 Hours (controller reading)
Temp: ~1828° F

I love how ridiculously tiny the new Olympic 14x14" kiln looks next to my 10 cubic foot Bailey beast.

The electrical service upgrade was a success and the new kiln seems to have fired without any problems. I'll have a better idea on how it works once I load it up with some actual pottery. Hopefully this means some custom orders can be completed in less than my current turnaround time of 3-5 weeks.

Glaze Firing No. 26

2011-08-01T06:44:00.000-04:00

Cone 5

"Slow Glaze" Program
20 Minute Hold
Started: 5:58 PM
Completed: 5:27 AM - 11.29 Hours
(controller reading)

Very nervous about firing in this heat... hope we don't experience any power interruptions tonight! It's currently 90 degrees in our home due to the inability to run the air conditioning while the kiln is firing. Our electrician is scheduled to address that issue this Friday.

Bisque Firing No. 19

2011-07-27T14:15:00.000-04:00

Cone 04

"Slow Bisque" Program
5 Minute Hold
Started: 6:58 PM
Completed: 8:52 AM - 13.54 Hours(controller reading)

There is a lot of custom work in this firing. I can't wait to get it all glazed!

What You're Missing at the Market

2011-07-22T12:48:00.002-04:00

If you didn't stop by Oakland County Farmers Market this week, here's what you missed:

Peaches - fresh, juicy and flavorful
Lettuces - green leaf & butter
Cucumbers
Summer Squash
Blueberries & Raspberries
Tomatoes
Sweet Onions
Fresh Cut & Potted Flowers
Handmade Flavored Corn Chips
Handmade Jewelry & Crafts
Baked Goods - cookies, cakes & more

And of course... my handcrafted pottery! Come out and see everything next Thursday, July 28 from 7:30 AM to 2:00 PM.

Heat Wave at IART

2011-07-18T15:36:00.000-04:00

Thank you to everyone who came out to support the arts at IART in Redford last weekend. The heat was oppressive and yet there were some great performances from local musicians, belly dancing ensemble and other acts.

As with all shows, I love meeting new artists and also getting to know the owners of my pieces. Two of my favorite teapots found new homes on Sunday afternoon. I hope they provide years of service!

Latest Work

2011-07-12T13:51:00.000-04:00

I took some beautiful new pieces out of the kiln last night, including a few "double dip" chip and dip bowls. They sell out almost immediately, so be sure to check them out in person at the Oakland County Farmers Market this Thursday or at the 2011 IART Festival:

2011 IART Festival

The Marquee (behind Town Hall)
15145 Beech Daly Road

Redford, MI 48239

July 16, 2011 - Saturday11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

July 17, 2011 - Sunday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Glaze Firing No. 25

2011-07-11T07:14:00.000-04:00

Cone 5

"Slow Glaze" Program
25 Minute Hold
Started: 7:13 PM
Completed: 6:34 AM - 11.21 Hours
(controller reading)

Reflection

2011-07-10T22:41:00.000-04:00

We took a long weekend vacation to Lake Michigan last weekend. Since returning, I've been working on getting my latest work glazed and fired for this weekend's IART Festival in Redford (details on my main site). I haven't been throwing much in the past couple of weeks as I tend to approach pottery in cycles, not wanting to distract myself from finishing one stage before starting another.

I'd been feeling out-of-sorts this week, likely due to not creating anything new in so long. After loading the kiln, I spent some time wedging up reclaimed clay and sat down at the wheel to work. Throwing bowls, mugs and chip & dips, the following thought occurred to me:

I don't center clay, it centers me.

And that feeling of being totally immersed and satisfied is one of the many reasons I love working with this medium.

Bisque Firing No. 18

2011-07-02T11:56:00.000-04:00

Cone 04

"Slow Bisque" Program
5 Minute Hold
Started: 8:02 PM
Completed: 9:44 AM - 13.42 Hours

(controller reading)

New - Monthly Newsletter

2011-06-24T16:03:00.003-04:00

Glaze Firing No. 24

2011-06-24T06:39:00.001-04:00

Cone 5

"Slow Glaze" Program
20 Minute Hold
Started: 9:15 PM
Completed: 6:36 AM - 9.21 Hours
(controller reading)

Wine Goblets

2011-06-22T19:56:00.000-04:00

Stem Vase

2011-06-22T19:34:00.000-04:00

Instead of the usual "pin frog" stem holder, this vase incorporates clay cylinders to hold your arrangement in place. Small holes at the base of each cylinder allow water to reach your cut flowers.

Glaze Firing No. 23

2011-06-18T07:30:00.000-04:00

Cone 5

"Slow Glaze" Program
18 Minute Hold
Started: 10:02 PM
Completed: 7:24 AM - 9.22 Hours
(controller reading)

Almost Famous

2011-06-10T11:51:00.001-04:00

Berkley Art Bash Kicks Off Saturday: MyFoxDETROIT.com

My bowl made it into the segment this morning! I hope we have an awesome turnout tomorrow:
June 11, 2011 - Saturday
2011 Berkley Art Bash
BOOTH #91
12 Mile Road & Griffith Street (downtown)
Berkley, MI 48072
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Bisque Firing No. 17

2011-06-10T06:32:00.000-04:00

Cone 04

"Slow Bisque" Program
5 Minute Hold
Started: 4:00 PM
Completed: 5:27AM - 13.27 Hours

(controller reading)

What's New

2011-05-30T18:49:00.000-04:00

Cut flower trays, goblets, utensil holders/vases and open casseroles.

Glaze Firing No. 22

2011-05-28T07:50:00.000-04:00

Cone 5

"Slow Glaze" Program
18 Minute Hold
Started: 7:34 PM
Completed: ~6:13 AM - 10.39 Hours
(controller reading)

Cracker & Dip Sets

2011-05-25T22:13:00.000-04:00

I unloaded the kiln this evening and then loaded it right back up for the next firing, which I'll be starting after the latest round of rain and thunderstorms pass.

Here are some new forms: cracker trays with separate dip bowls. These two are going to the farmers market with me tomorrow morning and I hope they both find good homes.

Glaze Firing No. 21

2011-05-24T20:23:00.002-04:00

Cone 5

"Slow Glaze" Program
20 Minute Hold
Started: 9:32 AM
Completed: 7:50 PM - 10.18 Hours
(controller reading)

Really looking forward to unloading this kiln tomorrow night: it's full of inventory I'm running out of at the market as well as a new cracker tray design test. I'll be firing another glaze load this week if the weather cooperates.

Bisque Firing No. 16

2011-05-16T06:38:00.000-04:00

Cone 04

"Slow Bisque" Program
5 Minute Hold
Started: 3:37 PM
Completed: 5:46 AM - 13.32 Hours

(controller reading)

Looking forward to have some new things ready in time for Peacefest & Berkley Art Bash next month!

Tuesdays are for Throwing

2011-05-10T17:51:00.000-04:00

The first week back at market was fun. It was great seeing everyone again, vendors and shoppers alike. I'll be back this week:

May 12, 2011 - Thursday
2350 Pontiac Lake Road
Waterford, MI 48328
7:30 AM - 2:00 PM

Today I started some more chip & dip bowls and berry bowls with saucers. New Brie bakers and butter crocks were trimmed and received their handles.

Now that Spring is here, clay is drying slowly. Over the winter I was spoiled by the furnace's warm, dry air in the studio. Without it, everything is taking a little longer... I'm hoping to get one more round of firing done before my two June shows.

Back at the Market

2011-04-30T14:44:00.001-04:00

I'll be back at the Oakland County Farmers Market next week:
May 5, 2011 - Thursday
2350 Pontiac Lake Road
Waterford, MI 48328
7:30 AM - 2:00 PM

Stop in for a perfect Mother's Day gift!

Latest Work

2011-04-28T23:40:00.001-04:00

Glaze Firing No. 20

2011-04-27T07:31:00.000-04:00

Cone 5

"Slow Glaze" Program
20 Minute Hold
Started: 7:33 PM
Completed: 6:31 AM - 10.58 Hours
(controller reading)

Pendant Prototypes

2011-04-26T00:38:00.000-04:00

New stoneware pendant prototypes fresh from the kiln.

Glaze Firing No. 19

2011-04-23T00:39:00.004-04:00

Cone 5

"Slow Glaze" Program
20 Minute Hold
Started: 2:31 PM
Completed: 12:31 AM - 10.11 Hours
(controller reading)

Glazing Insanity

2011-04-21T21:36:00.000-04:00

Today I finished glazing over 150 pieces of pottery. Almost every flat surface is covered with pots drying and waiting to go back into the kiln. Michigan has a sunny, temperate weekend ahead and I can't wait to get firing.

Bisque Firing No. 15

2011-04-15T07:44:00.000-04:00

Cone 04

"Slow Bisque" Program
5 Minute Hold
Started: 5:18 PM
Completed: 7:39 AM - 14.21 Hours

(controller reading)

I made it! I made it!

2011-04-11T18:37:00.000-04:00

I made it into the 2011 Berkley Art Bash! I am so excited!

http://www.berkleyartbash.com/photos/2011_artists/brandee-kaylene-ross.html

2011 Booth Setup

2011-04-07T22:27:00.000-04:00

Today's beautiful weather allowed a test run of my new booth setup, featuring new shelves and table coverings.

New Stamp

2011-04-03T16:52:00.000-04:00

My new stamp from Ceramic Tools 4 Clay came this weekend. Can't wait to see how this looks after it is fired!

Latest Work & New Forms

2011-03-31T18:08:00.000-04:00

Along with some great Charcoal Satin glaze results, there were some new types of pieces in my last firing: garlic graters, Brie bakers and apple bakers. Check out all the new work in my gallery.

I've started shooting against an all white backdrop and I think the result is a much cleaner photo that really showcases the pottery.

New Charcoal Satin Glaze Combinations

2011-03-29T23:09:00.000-04:00

The Charcoal Satin glaze looks great paired with Licorice, but I think I like it even better under Raspberry (top) and White Satin (bottom).

Glaze Firing No. 18

2011-03-24T09:59:00.000-04:00

Cone 5

"Slow Glaze" Program
20 Minute Hold
Started: 8:39 PM
Completed: 6:33 AM - 9.54 Hours

Glaze Combinations

2011-03-18T00:04:00.000-04:00

I spent most of today glazing the pots from my last bisque firing. There are quite a few reliable combinations (shown above). I'm experimenting with Charcoal Satin/Raspberry and Charcoal Satin/Bright Sky Blue and will have some results next week.

Bisque Firing No. 14

2011-03-13T19:34:00.003-04:00

Cone 04

"Slow Bisque" Program
5 Minute Hold
Started: 9:42 PM
Completed: ~13 Hours

Some Favorites

2011-03-01T21:48:00.000-05:00

Here are some of my favorites from the last firing, including the new treat jars and my first attempt at a garlic grater (which works surprisingly well). The charcoal satin glaze is still tough to get a nice photo of, but I'm getting closer.

Lately I've been working on some new forms: Brie bakers, apple bakers and larger serving platters/trays. I'm also using slip to create pattens, which is a fun departure from my normal glaze and wax resist technique.

Soon I'll be back at the farmers market... hard to believe March is already here.

Glaze Firing No. 17

2011-02-25T08:29:00.000-05:00

Cone 5

"Slow Glaze" Program
20 Minute Hold
Started: 5:44 PM
Completed: 4:15 AM - 10.31 Hours

Bisque Firing No. 13

2011-02-16T08:50:00.000-05:00

Cone 04

"Slow Bisque" Program
5 Minute Hold
Started: ~2:35 PM
Completed: ~4:27 AM - 13.52 Hours
(controller reading)

Covered Casseroles

2011-02-15T21:08:00.000-05:00

Worked on some new casseroles this week, along with some garlic keepers and mugs. Today was an especially good day; everything seemed relaxed and almost effortless. Almost!

I've applied for a couple of new summer shows, one I feel confident about and another that is a little more competitive. I will be much better prepared for the 2011 selling season. Last year I started with almost no inventory. With some new studio tools, I can throw more pieces in a single session. I am also able to make larger matching sets (20 or more matching mugs instead of last year's 12).

A bisque load is currently firing and will finish some time in the very early morning. I'm almost out of black and blue glaze again–the only downfall of throwing more pieces is running out of glaze.

Glaze Firings 15 & 16

2011-02-03T23:20:00.003-05:00

Here is a slideshow showing work from the two glaze firings this week:

The new charcoal glaze is quite attractive and nearly impossible to photograph well. Here are a couple of close-ups showing the charcoal over the Licorice and under the Texture Hot Chowder:

Glaze Firing No. 16

2011-02-02T23:30:00.000-05:00

Cone 5

"Slow Glaze" Program
18 Minute Hold
Started: 2:15 PM
Completed: 11:14 PM - 8.59 Hours

Wintry Wednesday

2011-02-02T22:42:00.001-05:00

I normally work my "day" job on Wednesdays, but due to the blizzard they decided to stay closed. I got a lot done:

Unloaded the completed glaze firing from last night.
Cleaned the studio, except mopping because I hate it.
Worked at the wheel, throwing 22 mugs.
Shoveled the driveway (no easy feat with drifts of snow over 12").
Loaded another glaze firing. Checked weather advisory.
Short power outage.
Debated if I should start the kiln.
Ate.
Decided to start the kiln, hoping power would stay on.
Edited a video of my waxing & glazing technique; uploaded it to YouTube.

The kiln is climbing its last 100 degrees and will finish around 11:15 PM. Hooray for snow days!

Glaze Firing No. 15

2011-02-01T08:21:00.002-05:00

Cone 5

"Slow Glaze" Program
18 Minute Hold
Started: 9:50 PM
Completed: 7:10 AM - 9.20 Hours

I wanted to get one glaze firing in before Tuesday/Wednesday's expected blizzard. This load includes a Charcoal Satin glaze test along with some new batches of old favorites.

Bisque Firing No. 12

2011-01-26T07:27:00.000-05:00

Cone 04

"Slow Bisque" Program
5 Minute Hold
Started: ~12:01 PM
Completed: 1:36 AM - 13.35 Hours (controller reading)

Tumblers

2011-01-25T18:04:00.000-05:00

I loaded the kiln for a bisque firing, taking my time to fit in as much work as I am comfortable with. It should be done around 1:30 AM.

With that task out of the way, I worked on some chip & dip bowls and tumblers. Most of last year's drinking vessels had handles, so this year I want to mix things up and offer a bit more variety.

Cat Treat Jars

2011-01-18T19:03:00.000-05:00

Today I finished the cat treat jars I threw on Sunday.

They are a bit smaller than the dog treat jars. Here they are side-by-side:

I also trimmed 14 cups and added handles to 13 (one didn't live through trimming). I've got greenware all over the place: drying slowly under plastic, stacked on shelves... I need to fire a bisque load but as usual I keep putting it off while I make "one more thing".

Throwing & Finishing Berry Bowls

2011-01-16T15:14:00.000-05:00

Parts one, throwing:

Part two, finishing:

Dog Treat Jars

2011-01-15T15:13:00.001-05:00

I finished the treat jars today, adding handles and stamped plaques. These are the perfect size for dog (or person!) snacks. I will be making some smaller versions next weeks for cats.

Winter Work

2011-01-13T22:01:00.000-05:00

When I'm not busy trying to learn how to edit video, I'm still making lots of new work. Today I started butter crocks (new, wider shape), chili/soup bowls and pet treat jars. Thanks to my new bat system from Kentucky Mud Works I am able to get a lot more done in one session of throwing.

Mugs & Tumblers - Trimming, Handles & Decoration

2011-01-12T08:40:00.000-05:00

Completing the mugs:

Mugs & Tumblers - Throwing a Basic Cylinder

2011-01-09T21:54:00.000-05:00

This week I made a couple of videos with my new HD camcorder (thanks Sandy!). Here's one I uploaded on YouTube today:

New Work & Last Market Day

2010-12-14T22:19:00.001-05:00

I've unloaded two nice glaze firings this week. Check out all the new pieces in my gallery.

This Thursday (December 16th) will be my last day at the Oakland County Farmers Market. Stop by for a one-of-a-kind holiday gift!

Glaze Firing No. 14

2010-12-11T13:05:00.000-05:00

Cone 5

"Slow Glaze" Program
18 Minute Hold
Started: 10:24 PM
Completed: 7:15 AM - 8.51 Hours

Glaze Firing No. 13

2010-12-08T07:15:00.000-05:00

Cone 5

"Slow Glaze" Program
18 Minute Hold
Started: 9:30 PM
Completed: 6:56 AM - 9.26 Hours

Bisque Firing No. 11

2010-12-04T09:38:00.000-05:00

Cone 04

"Slow Bisque" Program
5 Minute Hold
Started: ~8:05 PM
Completed: 9:36 AM - 13.29 Hours (controller reading)

This is the last bisque firing before Christmas. If you are waiting for your custom order it will be ready soon; I plan to fire two glaze loads in the next week.

Teapots, Trough Spouts & Thank You's

2010-11-22T23:20:00.000-05:00

Last Thursday I took an order for a larger version of a teapot I made earlier this summer. Here is the finished greenware version next to the original. They are similar in shape and spirit but definitely not twins!

I found an old copy of Clay Times which has a great article by Bill van Gilder about trough spouts. I have never made this type of spout before, so I decided to try it on a mixing bowl (another custom order). I absolutely love how it turned out and I plan to make some pitchers in the same style.

I took part in two holiday shows last week. The first one was hosted by Laura, owner of Milford Spice Company. She had a great turnout and fabulous catering. On Tuesday and Wednesday, I was at a private country club in West Bloomfield along with a variety of other vendors. I had no idea what to expect at that show but was pleasantly surprised by the great feedback (and sales). Then it was off to the market on Thursday, where I ran into some people I'd met at the other events. Thank you to everyone who looked, commented or purchased something from me. I am truly honored to be welcomed into your homes and appreciate the continued support of this great community.

Holiday Boutique

2010-11-11T15:35:00.000-05:00

Champagne Open House & Holiday Boutique

· Complimentary champagne & hors d'oeuvres
· Complimentary valet parking
· Gift Wrapping
· Exquisite hand carved hardwood
· Hand made soaps
· Hand made skin care products
· Michigan made gift baskets
· Upper Crust Candles
· Exclusive hand knit items
· Hand thrown pottery
· Jewelry
· Bon-A-Rose Foods
· Local honey and tea

November 14, 2010
Milford, MI
RSVP Appreciated - Please contact me for address

Glaze Firing No. 12

2010-11-10T07:31:00.000-05:00

Cone 5

"Slow Glaze" Program
18 Minute Hold
Started: 9:07 PM
Completed: 6:10 AM - 9.03 Hours

This firing includes the 50+ tea cups. I am especially anxious to get this kiln open tomorrow morning... hopefully there will not be any surprises.

Bisque Firing No. 10

2010-11-08T09:25:00.000-05:00

Cone 04

"Slow Bisque" Program
5 Minute Hold
Started: 7:38 PM
Completed: 9:00 AM - 13.22 Hours (controller reading)

This load is mostly tea cups, but I managed to fit a few other pieces in as well. Tomorrow morning I will unload and glaze, glaze, glaze!

Kiln Abuse

2010-11-08T07:33:00.002-05:00

I'm currently waiting for my third kiln load to finish in under seven days. The previous two firings were glaze work, including these two Raw Sienna/Waterfall Brown berry bowls with saucers. See all of the latest work in my gallery.

Glaze Firing No. 11

2010-11-06T08:27:00.000-04:00

Cone 5

"Slow Glaze" Program
18 Minute Hold
Started: 11:09 PM
Completed: 7:38 AM - 8:47 Hours (controller reading)

Two glaze firings in one week!

Glaze Firing No. 10

2010-11-04T09:00:00.000-04:00

Cone 5

"Slow Glaze" Program
18 Minute Hold
Started: 9:18 PM
Completed: 6:37 AM - 8:55 Hours (controller reading)

50 Tea Cups

2010-11-04T00:09:00.000-04:00

On October 27th, I received a request for 50 tea cups. The catch? They are needed before November 14th.

Since last Thursday, I've thrown 57 tea cups (some shown at left). I've trimmed and added handles to all but 13, which I plan to finish tomorrow evening. Oh, and I ran a huge load of bisque and glazed all of it.

The kiln is running tonight and once it cools I'll be loading it up for another glaze firing. By then, I hope all the tea cups are ready to go in the kiln. This isn't the type of deadline I want to make a habit of, but I am feeling good about my progress so far!

Bisque Firing No. 9

2010-10-29T18:33:00.000-04:00

Cone 04

"Slow Bisque" Program
5 Minute Hold
Started: 8:26 PM
Completed: 9:55 AM - 13.29 Hours (controller reading)

Productivity

2010-10-24T23:27:00.001-04:00

The last few weeks have been very productive. My plan is to have enough work in the next bisque load to equal two glaze firings. The holidays are quickly approaching and I want to be prepared.

Ten Pounds

2010-10-17T23:13:00.000-04:00

Ten pounds of clay makes one very large bowl.

On another note, it's nice to work outside of a community setting. I can't imagine how hard people would cry if I left a classroom wheel in this state.

Glaze Firing No. 9

2010-10-12T08:42:00.001-04:00

Cone 5

"Slow Glaze" Program
18 Minute Hold
Started: 11:07 PM
Completed: 8:16 AM - 9:09 Hours (controller reading)

Butter Crocks

2010-10-07T00:01:00.050-04:00

I added handles and knobs to a few French-style butter crocks I started on Tuesday. I've never used this style of dish before--the idea of having fresh, spreadable butter on hand at all times is very appealing.

From Wikipedia:

"A French butter dish is a container used to keep butter fresh and soft without refrigeration. This late 19th century French-designed pottery crock has two parts: a base with a hollow cylinder attached to it, and a cup that also serves as a lid. The cup holds the packed in butter, and the base holds water. The water creates an airtight seal that keeps oxygen away from the butter so that refrigeration is not needed, and the butter can be used in its soft form. This method will keep butter for around a month provided it is kept at temperatures below 80F (27C)."

Bisque Firing No. 8

2010-10-06T07:26:00.000-04:00

Cone 04

"Slow Bisque" Program
5 Minute Hold
Started: 10:01 AM
Completed: 11:29 PM - 13.27 Hours (controller reading)

Quality Control Technician

2010-10-05T17:42:00.000-04:00

Every piece is carefully inspected by Ling to ensure the highest quality pottery for your home:

NEW DATE! 24th Annual Harvest Happening - October 10

2010-10-04T13:29:00.001-04:00

Come see me this Sunday at the 24th Annual Harvest Happening:

October 10, 2010

Hess-Hathaway Park

825 S. Williams Lake Road

Waterford, MI 48327

(248) 674-5441

11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

In addition to a variety of craft vendors, there will also be: pony rides, bake/food sale, cider & donuts, music, hayrides, pumpkin patch, entertainment and more.

Rain, Clay & Miscellany

2010-10-03T20:22:00.001-04:00

As disappointed as I was about the Harvest Happening being cancelled, it rained all day long and would have been a miserable day to be under a tent. I was also down to my last bag of clay, so it was a good opportunity to head out to Rovin to pick up some more. They only had 100 pounds of RO-14 "White Stoneware", so I took all of that and decided to try out the RO-01 "You Betcha Mix". I've been throwing with it all weekend and it is very creamy, responsive and easy to work with.

After some estimation, I've concluded that a 1/2 ton of clay (1000 pounds) should last me a year. Once I see how the RO-01 fires with my current glazes, I'll decide which clay bodies I want to commit to (probably RO-14 "Light Stoneware" and RO-23 "Peach Stoneware"). Dragging 80 box of clay down a flight of stairs won't be fun, but making a 2+ hour round trip to Taylor, MI every month is even less so.

I've had a few requests for coordinating covered jars. Today I worked on two sets of graduated trios with my favorite style of lid. I really love the fat knobs on the front set.

I finally broke down and got a Giffen Grip. I used it for the first time tonight trimming a couple of berry bowls. Hopefully it will speed things up a bit; it will be great finishing those lidded jars without throwing a chuck first!

Harvest Happening - CANCELLED

2010-10-02T10:14:00.001-04:00

The Harvest Happening at Hess Hathaway Park has been cancelled today due to inclement weather. At this time, the event has not been rescheduled.

A Day's Work

2010-09-28T23:25:00.000-04:00

Trimmed/added handles to:
3 large serving trays
1 large round baker
1 large square baker
4 soup/salad bowls
1 large bowl
1 chip & dip bowl

Wedged:
23 lbs. Rovin's Peach Stoneware
13 lbs. Rovin's Light Stoneware

Threw:
13 large mugs
10 tall mugs

Listened to:
2.5 movies

I took a 4 hour break in the middle of the day to give my neck and hands a rest but I still feel like I got a lot done. I cleaned my work area a few days ago and am happy to report it's a complete mess again.