Technicalities

I've been experiencing a few hiccoughs with raw materials over the last few months and am told I am not alone in this regard. Clay and glazes that have served me well for many years have become either unpredictable or unavailable. My understanding is that certain suppliers have gone out of business so manufacturers of ceramic materials are sometimes having to use raw materials from different sources. Part and parcel of making things from the earth I guess but rather frustrating when a few weeks worth of work are lost in the final firing! Urgh.

But hey, it makes life interesting and I must say those peeps behind the scenes in the wonderful world of pottery supplies are incredibly understanding and helpful when I voice any concerns and queries. As all potters know there are never guarantees when it comes to materials and I was expecting some settling-in issues with the new kiln, new studio and new work anyway. Patience, deep breathes, try again, enjoy the process....

But look at my gorgeous new GE and GE kiln. I'm calling her GiGi for obvious reasons - a little cutsey and inexplicably French but it accidentally stuck in my mind so I'm going with it. She's been firing like an angel and is insulated like nothing I have ever experienced before. I have had to lower my programmes as she likes to get hot and stay hot. In fact I believe cones are dropping after program completion as the temperature in the kiln is maintained beyond the scheduled cycles causing a longer soak than expected. Can't complain about that!

Lots of pots and news to come and more images... hopefully... soon...