Pottery is an ancient art. For many hundreds of years, America has manufactured pottery for both home and commercial use. But just as our commercial pottery making skills have changed, so has the skills necessary to create those wares. Today almost ninety percent of all Americans have some ability to produce pottery and other decorative materials. But the skill, satisfaction and relaxation that comes with being a potter remains unchanged.
Pottery manufacturing today is done in much the same manner as it was done back then. Two utensils are used, one to lift the clay, and another to work the heat into the material. The first tool you’ll need is a heavy-duty clay poker; also called a glazed poker. Potters of old would light fires on these to keep their pots and glazes hot during the shaping and heating process.
Next you’ll find your basic pottery tools. You’ll need a kiln for heating, a kiln lid to keep your pottery glaze from flying out, a water hose for cleaning and squirting water when it’s time to add the glaze. You’ll also need a kiln knife, a wheel to turn your clay, and a mallet to hit the pottery while it’s still in the kiln. These tools come in different sizes and types, depending on how intricate you want your pottery pieces to be. So start small and build up your tool box as you progress.
You’ll find that pottery making is really very simple. And you can design anything you want out of the endless variety of pottery materials available. I’ve seen lots of different pottery bowls and platters made from porcelain, granite, quartzite, limestone, soapstone, and even terracotta. They’re all beautiful, and I’m sure you’ll be able to create some too!
When you’re done making your pottery, you’ll be able to find many uses for it. Display it in your home for all to see! If you’re planning on selling your wares, display them on a mantel or in a display case. I’ve even seen people use it to decorate a bedroom closet! There are even ceramic dishes that double as storage containers for folded clothes.
For the interior of your home, you can decorate with pottery in many ways. Decorate your walls with beautiful mosaic art pieces that tie into the rest of your colors in your room. Install a nice chandelier or pendant light in the center of your living room or kitchen. That’s just the beginning of what you can do with your pottery!
I know you’re probably thinking that making pottery is way to expensive. But think about how much you’ll save on the cost of the materials! You may even find that you can borrow some of the cheaper tools from a friend or relative. This will help you on your journey to become pottery master. The money you save will more than pay for the tools you buy.
Now that you know a little bit more about pottery, go out and try making some pottery. You’ll be amazed at the designs you can come up with. As you practice, you’ll find that you can replicate designs and doodles that you see in books and magazines. Soon you’ll have a thriving business making pottery for others!
Have fun with it and don’t be afraid to experiment. You might even come up with some designs that are unique enough to sell on eBay for a good price. You can spend as little or as much time making pottery as you want. But the important thing to remember is to have fun and not to get discouraged.
Have a hobby? Do some woodworking? Do some bead work? The possibilities are endless for what you can do with pottery. If you need some help with techniques, check out some books at your local library or bookstore for ideas or watch some videos online.
Decorating with pottery can be a fun and creative project to tackle. It’s an inexpensive way to dress up your home. You’ll love how easy it is to create some of your own unique masterpieces. So have some fun and make some gorgeous pottery! You’ll be proud to display it and everyone will admire it when you bring it out for display.
