Hello everybody!
Firstly, I am not sure if I chose the correct category and way to publish this post. If not, I apologize for the inconvenience and I would be happy to learn more about the correct way.
My question pertains to an anniversary gift I want to make for my partner. I have made some progress with throwing on the wheel and can now comfortably throw around 5 kgs (11 lbs) and shape the clay. I do lack some experience regarding the glazing process since I have not had plenty of access to different techniques/a kiln etc.
I would like to throw a vessel, possibly a flower vase and decorate it. As of now, I have the idea to write the lyrics to a song (from Taylor Swift, his favorite singer) we listened on our first date on the vase. Even though I have a lot of ideas, I am stuck at the point at which I want to materialize them. I am not sure where to start since I don't know how large of a pot I should throw, whether my standard clay body (G&S 254) would do the job and how the specifics of writing on clay work. Apart from transparent glaze (Mayco SW-001), I have several other stoneware glazes (e.g. Mayco SW-115 Midnight Rain, SW-504 Red Gloss, SW-402 Dark Flux, SW-119 Cinnabar) available and previous firings using those have been successful. I also have underglaze ceramic pencils but I am not sure how they work exactly.
I would like to ask for your creative input, previous experience and ideas! What shapes work well for flower vases? Or do you think another form (a big fruit bowl or who knows what else) would work better for this idea? Do you have any other ideas with respect to decoration/glazing? If I use the pencils, must I use transparent glaze to be able to see them after firing per se? Is there any other possibility to make the vase more interesting when I only decorate it with pencils and transparent glaze (e.g. is it an idea to use two different color clay bodies and throw a two-colored marbled pot)? I do not intend to make a white pot with some scrabbled letters and transparent glaze only.
I am sorry if it is a lot and I realize the questions are plenty, however, any input regarding any part of this idea is highly appreciated! Thank you in advance and I will keep you updated throughout the process!
Best and have a good day!
Lucas
