mel jacobson on sat 22 jul 06
thanks for that tiny story ivor.
yes, i think many have it backwards.
the search for glaze recipes, then more, then
100, then 300...and never take time to
learn even one.
my take has always been...find a `surface`.
not a glaze...a surface that is perfect for
your pots.
it is about touch, feel, then look.
does it hold color,
does it show slips and under color?
how does it work,
is it safe? ?? ask those questions
first.
i love the feel and look of rhodes 32.
i altered it over the years.
it needs a bit of silica and i love the
look of rutile...and that adds titanium.
both are natural glass makers, to a degree.
so, i added a bit of shine, made it work
for utility pots...and i love the way it layers.
it will take almost any oxide in layers.
and it is very simple to make...just a couple
of bags...not complex.
and, it was designed for high iron clay.
that too is a love of mine.
the clay body affects to outcome of the glaze.
dramatically.
so, many years ago i found a surface.
altered that surface to make color and
texture and a utility glaze.
have used it on thousands of pots.
and sold them all. and remember, this is a fact.
`if your customers do not like your surface or color,
they will not buy the pots.` my customers just rave
over my tan, aqua, white and blue pots...and buy them.
lots of runny, texture and blended color. it is what
they want. but you see, i love those same colors and
textures...nice blend of potter and customer.
remember, if you love glaze..you are blessed.
it is a life long search./
i love pots.
glaze is just a tool for me.
i love surface and texture.
i was lucky to find a glaze early on
that filled my needs.
just stuck with it.
mel
from: mel/minnetonka.mn.usa
website: http://www.visi.com/~melpots/
Clayart page link: http://www.visi.com/~melpots/clayart.html
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