Up in Smoke Pottery

January 2012

2012-01-24T11:44:00.002-06:00

Wow, where has time gone. It has over 2 months since i was on the blog, sorry about that. Since I last posted we have had our Holiday Open House, lot of great pieces found their way out our door. Kiesha had prepared a delicious spread of food, I got leftovers for a few days but I didn't mind. The family Christmas came and went. The kids have been busy with hockey, and so have I as a league manager/supervisor, also was talked into being a tournament director.

The end of the year also meant inventory, ugh!, double ugh!! and I am at a point the taxes information is ready for the accountant, just waiting on the w2s from the w2 jobs.

January is also the time we empty the bank account with show applications, this year we are planning on 7 festivals, 5 we have done before, and two new ones. I can say we will definitely be in Sioux Falls at the Sidewalk Arts in September. Other than that we will wait and see.

On the throwing side, I have not touched clay or the wheel since November. I set it up again last night, but not sure when I will get to play in clay. But I do have a couple custom orders due in February, so I best get going soon.

Pit Firing 11-6-11

2011-11-07T22:20:00.000-06:00

Well, we did what is likely the final pit firing of the year this past weekend. We dug a new pit, using a trench style vs our old standard a large circle or square. We only had 25-30 pots to fire so space wasn't a big necessity this time.

Using the trench was an learning experiment, I believe I can accomplish the same firing with less materials, since there was less square footage. I used definitely a lot less wood, I left a good size pile from what we would normally use for the firing. The fire also burned longer and the ash bed was very large and took a long time to dwindle down. I also used a lot less chemicals this time, notice a little less of the copper reds, but it produced a lot more greens.

I also encountered higher wind delays, was planning on firing at 8 am, but ended up waiting until 5:30 pm as the sun was setting. This turned out to be a great experience, not only watching the fire in the dark and easily seeing the different colored flames. I also utilized the coal bed to test colorants and see what they produced. I only wish I had brought more alone.

There are a few photos of the firing on Facebook, it will most likely be a while before I clean and seal the pots. We are planning a foil saggar firing this week, and then it hockey nearly every night and weekend from now through March. Don't worry I still get my shelves filled so I can fire once the snow goes away.

Thanks for reading,
Chad

Stoneware

2011-11-02T07:00:00.000-05:00

Recently I did another stoneware(cone 5) firing, mainly to complete some custom orders/special requests. this typically not something I do often, but find myself doing more and more of to increase revenues.

This last firing I continued to play with Amaco Potter Choice glazes, and am really liking the results. Very smooth and easy to apply, and doesn't run. I did play a little with layering the glazes over one of my DPS Standbys and the results were wanting me to play more.

I posted pics of what I call the tri-batter-bowls, basically a bowl distorted in to a triangle shape, has 3 spouts and up to 3 handles. I use a different glaze on each side with overlaps in the spouts. The two are sold. the 3rd was a test piece, but will most likely be out for the Open House in December. Kiesha wants a few more also by the open house. given the feedback on both Facebook and Google+, I just might have to do it. It also in encouraging me to delve back into stoneware. I have been toying with it all year, but I think I need to narrow down my color spectrum 1st.

Until next time, take care. I attached the photo of the tri batter bowls incase you don't follow FB or G+

Winterfest

2011-10-26T01:43:00.003-05:00

As promised a little more about Winterfest, our 1st indoor show. It is an annual event in downtown Aberdeen, SD. The lights are dimmed and all exhibitors are required to light their booths. We decided to try this indoor show mainly because of 2 reasons, one it is in a market we have not been in, and two it is during a time when we typically have no shows. Also it seemed less like a flea market, which is one in town that keeps trying to get me to pay the $400 booth fee to join every year.

So the Arts Association behind Winterfest recommended to use a canopy to help reflect light in the booth area, so instead of using our 150-200 pound Craft Hut, we found an inexpensive "easy up" style canopy on clearance for $60, it weighs about 60 pounds and takes considerably less room in the SUV. That was purchase number one.

Also since it is in November in Northern SD, camping or sleeping in the SUV is out of the question, so hotel for two nights. It will be a nice getaway for the weekend.

Then came the task of lighting the booth, we had considered using christmas tree lights, but were concerned about the amount of light actually produced. So I put the question out on various pottery forums I participate in, and it was nearly unamious not to use the christmas lights. The big recommendation was to invest in a track lighting system. I did look at and began to design, but since we are wanting to redesign the entire booth in the next couple years, I went with option "C". Clip on lights. I selected narrow brooding lights and utilizing 50 watt halogen flood and spot lights.

We tested the lighting set up last week on a moonless night, it was very bright and the colors seemed true under the lights. I will definetly take photos of the booth once it is set up and illuminated for future use. Now we are trying to figure out if we want to invest in a portable pattery system to light the booth during the summer shows. We will have to see on that one.

So if you are near Aberdeen the weekend before Thanksgiving, stop by and see us. We leave the light on for you! hahaha

Paint the Night Pink

2011-10-24T07:33:00.000-05:00

Paint the Night Pink was last Friday Night, what a great time. I don't think a whole lot of art is sold, but it is such a great night to mingle and chew the fat with other artists and John Q. Next on the Horizon is Winterfest, our 1st indoor show. More on that later this week.

Holiday Open house update.

2011-10-06T04:01:00.002-05:00

Been distracted lately, or busy not sure which. With the upcoming Holiday Open House in December we decided we needed to refresh the studio/gallery/basement before too many people saw it. I mean we have had a few people over to purchase pieces, but it was not pretty with the holes in the walls, dingy lighting.

Well we started by recycling some old barn siding from my Grandparents barn that was torn down about 20 years ago to give a real rustic feel to the wall separating the kids area and the studio. Gives it a separate feel. I got the idea from the recent home builders parade of homes, and it was used in a very high end home that was the feature home this year.

I then put us white masonite on one wall in the studio behind the drying / slab rolling table. Its not that this wall got that dirty, but there were several holes in the drywall, and this way it will be easy to clean.

In the actual gallery area, we moved all the pieces out, and then the shelving, repaired one wall and covered the others with drywall, so instead of looking at framing studs there will be a wall. It already looks better, and it is only mudded, no paint yet. Speaking of paint....found plenty at the reuse store for free! Once the walls are ready, i'll prime and start painting. and get everyting back to normal. Since we realized we need more pots for winter.

Our gallery in Bemidji, MN nearly ran out of pieces, so we sent a shipment this week. I am happy to report for the 1st time everything arrived as it was shipped no breakage. We switched to Fed Ex, not only less expensive, but higher survival rate.

We do have a shipment ready for Piper Gallery here in Sioux Falls, so be checking there soon for fresh inventory.

saggar firing 9-20-11

2011-09-21T19:08:00.003-05:00

This week worked on getting a quick firing for the piece I was planning on using for the Paint the Night Pink event here in Sioux Falls. The deadline is this Friday. the 20" platter/low bowl turned out AWESOME, it did exactly what I wanted it to do. Got it home and washed up with all the others so I could start sealing today so I can photograph it and write an blurb about. When done today and there was a chip in the rim! I don't think I did it, and the kids were not in the studio, I blame the cat. She has been hiding down there a little too much lately. Anyhow, I have other pieces for the benefit, and Kiesha will get another broken piece for her wall.

Sidewalk Arts

2011-09-16T07:00:00.000-05:00

Could not have asked for a more beautiful day for the Sidewalk Arts Festival in our "hometown" of Sioux Falls. Sales were roughly double last year, had two different sales of mulitple (3) pieces each. WoW, I believe it was the addition of accepting credit cards. Thank you Sioux Falls.

The frames tiles did not get touched much, one got petted a couple times, but that was it. Not nearly the reception they recieved in Luverne two weeks ago. alas back to the crate.

As the weather gets cooler, kids are back in school, getting back to regular sleep schedule, I now find myself with time to play on the wheel again. Will have roughly 1-2 days per week , plus some odd times here and there. This week spun 50#, I realize it not much, but that is more then I threw in the month of June, July, and August combined.

Next on the horizon for us is the annual Paint the Night Pink event, which is a benefit for Breast Cancer research, I need to let them know next week what pieces we will have there, we give 50% of the retail price to the cause. The same day we have the kids raku workshop at our youngests school, which I just spun all the pencil cups they will be firing.

Have no updates on the two winter/indoor shows, but still working on having our holiday open house. currently scheduled for Dec 10th, but that may change.

popularity of old work

2011-09-03T17:01:00.004-05:00

It was very odd last weekend at ArtRocks and I have been thinking about it all week. The pieces that created the most buzz and got "petted" the most were from a couple years ago. They were foil saggar'd tiles in wide wood frames I had made from scrap wood. Even a couple of fellow artisans who see at many festivals over the summer commented on them. I had these in a box for the last year or more, never even crossed my mind to grab them, but I did for ArtRocks to save space.

I will bring them again next weekend(Sept 10) to Sidewalk Arts, but it was just odd how pieces from a few years back, and didn't go over very well then, made and impact now. Here is a photo of a group of them.

I remember reading a post on Ceramic Arts Daily from Chris Campbell regarding the sensation of people asking for her old work. I guess I know what she meant, not that I totally understand it.

Also its that time of year to look at expanding our gallery representation, which is something i've neglected over the past year or so. We would like to keep within a 4-6 hr radius from Sioux Falls, but may consider elsewhere. So if you know a gallery looking, or would like to see our work locally where you live, help me make a connection.

ArtRocks

2011-08-29T20:24:00.003-05:00

Another year is done, and finished. Wanted to thank all the people behind the festival. The Artist reception was great, I noticed much more advertising this year. Crowds were light, so artists were never overwhelmed in their booths, but there were serious buyers in the crowd.

This year I personally scored a couple great pieces of artwork to adorn my studio walls. (at least when I have walls) One print from Jennifer White, and a couple small canvases from Chris Francis. Speaking of Chris if you are in Sioux Falls this weekend, he has an opening at Eastbank on Friday, His work is fabulous.

As for the update regarding credit cards, less then 20% of the sales from the weekend were on plastic. Doesn't help the Pro credit side.

Two weeks to Sidewalk Arts, and I'm already preparing.

Updates

2011-08-24T13:25:00.003-05:00

ARTROCKS in Luverne, MN is a few days away. Not nearly are ready as I'd like to be. Don't worry it will all work out. I realized last week we had thrown away all our shredded paper we pack the piece in for shows since it was sopping wet. My 3 junior assistants did not have time to shred with all the final getting ready for school stuff. Still have not replaced my literature holders, that will be done tonight hopefully during my sons football practice.

Also we are upgrading vehicles, hoping to find one that can haul kids plus hockey bags, or kids plus show booth, is all wheel drive or 4 wheel drive, is not a tin can, and a few other bells and whistle may good. Our 1994 transport, has served its purpose, but it needs to be moved out our mechanic's assisted living program. Once the replacement vehicle is here I will be able to better judge what i need to pack for the show.

Anyway, ARTROCKS is this Saturday, it is a Awesome little show, its our 4th year here. I heard this year is heavy on the pottery, which I enjoy, wondering around and seeing what else is out there. I will be bringing a piece that is near and dear to my heart. I have used the piece for many photos and festival entry forms, but now it time to move it on out. This will be the 1st show it will be out at. Come check it out.

Google +

2011-08-17T06:53:00.002-05:00

Was invited to join Google + this last week. I joined. Has some nice features, but I cannot see it ousting facebook or twitter. I am in a couple circles, and basically it is 2 people who fill up my wall. The others that are on it that I know and have circled haven't posted anything.

Does anyone have any experience or feelings toward Google+? I am still surprised by Linkedin and the number of people I know on there and am connecting with, so my feelings on Google + are still in the air.

If you want to find me on google+ we are listed as up in smoke pottery

If you want to find me on Linkedin it is Chad Dykstra.

Holiday Show

2011-08-09T16:25:00.003-05:00

It is August, our typical show seasons wraps up in 6 weeks. We have not found a winter/holiday show falls in line with our goals. there is one that is relentlessly badgering us to pay the $300-$400 to partake in theirs. I gone as a customer, I would never make the money back. We are looking at one in a new market, but waiting for a little more, we may do it just to have a show to do.

Which has led us to do our own holiday open house/ open studio. For those of you on FB you are getting this twice since this will post to the FB account as well, but for those in webland, if you'd be so kind to offer your input as to the hours we should be open.

The poll has been up for a couple hours and have gotten great feedback, much different then we expected. And a few great messages/IM/ comments/ emails on the subject.

Thank you in advance for your input.

professional potter?

2011-08-03T18:10:00.003-05:00

Last night, I thought occurred to me that I may have met one of my life goals, on a technicality. For about the last 20 years, I have always said I wanted to be a professional potter when I grow up. Thinking back to the definition of professional in terms of athletics, you were considered a professional when someone paid you to do it. Well I have sold pots for over 3 years now, someone is paying me for my work. I guess by definition I am a professional and have met my goal.

The technicality comes in, when I said that goal, i always meant that would be my profession, and I supported my family on that profession. I never stated the goal was to be a self sufficient potter, just a professional potter.

I don't feel like a professional. What does a professional potter feel like? I know I have people come to me for help with their pottery. Our website is doing well, even thought the search engines ignore it, (i'm working on it). I have been taking more and more custom orders for stoneware, a technique I'm don't do regularly.

I know when I was a manager of restaurants, I considered myself a professional and many of the same things applied. Was it that I reported to someone and they told me I was a professional? Or did I just act the role of the professional because of the title?

In my current night/day job the infamous W2, I am regarded as a professional. Once again not sure it is because someone told me I was or the prestige of a title. I do enjoy my W2 job, it is very satisfying knowing you did make a difference or an impact nearly everyday. On the other side, I have found out things and learned things about people I can never forget and somethings are better to be naive about.

I know I now need to amend the goal. It just feels weird to put professional pottery behind my name. I realize by definition I have obtained that right, but not certain if it appropriate yet.

Website

2011-08-01T14:33:00.002-05:00

totally rewrote the home page and working on redoing some of the others. The processes page has been changed to an overview of atmospheric firing , the sub page of pit firing has been re written with lots more detail, and more detail to come, the education and contact have been separated. I will add a book list and links as well as a description of each of the work shops.

Anything you'd like to see? let me know.

Anyway, tomorrow is the trip to Omaha with a few platters and our "Sun." I'm withholding pics until after the show opens. For those of you who were in Bemidji, you got to see it's sister piece in our booth, it received several compliments, but the real sun didn't shine long enough for anyone to take our home with them.

Still mentally hashing out studio redesign...do I us money to make the studio pretty, or do i use it to make the antechamber look better for the open house....still have to think on that one.

Whew...

2011-07-27T17:32:00.005-05:00

My mind is seriously drained. Over the past 53 hours or so I have built a website, made several modifications, opened an etsy store, and set up payments through paypal, worked W2 in emergency services during a flash thunderstorm/flood where people have no problems driving through flooded streets and upset when their car and belongings cannot/will not be rescue until water subsides, couple structure fires caused by lighting, cars falling into construction holes and man holes were the lid blew off, plus the normal day to day things of being a father and husband. Tonight I have meetings and back to W2.

I did make it into the studio for a short period today, I worked on sealing a couple pieces in tung oil, a new process I'm trying. Also added a google+1 button to the website and began working on making it more search friendly.

My brain is still working the details on a couple new designs, one would be a customizible series and the other new design for my new found, but rarely seen (yet), expression pieces. One will be going to White Crane Gallery in Omaha next week.

Also while sitting sealing pieces i began to rethink the studio layout. I need to think a bit more on that for a while. trying to determine if I should rebuild my drying table for one that has more room, but sacrifice my space for a future slab roller. Definitely need to think on that for a while.

Website

2011-07-26T11:52:00.002-05:00

Well, I finally took the plunge and created a website. It is something I have been dragging my feet on for the last couple years. Had some people offer to do it for me($$$), but never came to terms. Anyway a couple weeks ago I stumbled on a potter's website that I liked, (www.goodelephant.com) , Potter does great work, but it was the little button at the bottom of the page that piqued my interest. It was button to design your own website, for free!

I spent about a day researching the site and navigating it, talked with Kiesha, heemed and hawed, etc, etc. We decided to go for it. It was really easy and I was smiling the whole time. I cannot believe I designed a website and did not pull my hair out. Everything was drag and drop, very user friendly. I spent 4-5 hours on day one, and 1-2 hours on day 2. It should have been less but I kept changing my mind on what I wanted, I guess I should have drawn it out first.

Anyway, check out www.upinsmokepottery.com and find your own little button at the bottom of the pages.

And Mea (the good elephant potter), if you are reading this I do really like your work also, it just the button was golden ticket in the chocolate bar.

I feel like a proud Papa!

2011-07-26T11:47:00.002-05:00

Its been and interesting past month, I connected with a potter over the internet. He asked lots of questions and needed a little encouragement. He was a capable potter prior to connecting to me, and I know he was asking other potters as well, so It wasn't all me. But he did a foil saggar firing on his own, using the guidance from at least two overseas potters communicating via FB and other methods. I will say he did get some great results. When I saw those photos gave me one of those proud papa moments like a get when my kids do something great. Way to go Gareth.

Bemidji Art in the Park

2011-07-22T06:20:00.002-05:00

I know I'm a little late, considering the festival was last weekend, what can I say it has been a crazy week. between the W2 job and kids activities pottery has been on the back burner. I did get an order shipped, does that count?

Anyway, I am now a believer that credit cards help increase sales. We increased sales in Bemidji by 125%, of that 88% was on plastic. We even had people buy multiple pieces! The weather did not cooperate otherwise i believe we would have had even more growth in the sales category.

The weather, what can you do. On Saturday the police ordered the park evacuated due to a thunderstorm, by the time we had battened down the hatches so to speak they gave the all clear saying the storm had broken up. Well it was late enough in the afternoon that people who had left didn't return, but there still some people who ventured out, but the crowds were much lighter.

On Sunday the storm did hit with 90 mins left, at which point the vendors including us, decided to pack up. No last minute sales this time.

Alas, credit cards are good for sales, i know most of you are saying DUH! but I'm set in my ways. We are now exploring the possibility of online sales via paypal. I'll keep you updated

Credit Cards

2011-07-12T12:00:00.003-05:00

a little more on the credit cards. We have a square, for those of you not familiar with it, it is a small, square(if you can believe it) device that plugs into your headphone jack on a smart phone. This device allows me to accept payment from the 4 major credit card companies at a flat per use rate. This is awesome for those like me who do business only a few months out of the year. If I do not swipe a card, i pay nothing for the gizmo, or the service, only when I use it. the gizmo was free as well.

There are some limitations to it, it can only process $1000 a week, or anything over $1K will be held for roughly 30 days. I'm told i can get that adjusted, but so far don't see the need. Payment from the company to me is a couple days, so for a Sat/Sun Show...I get the 1st payment on tues, and the rest on Wed. Manual entries can be a little tedious especially if you are typing on a cell phone keypad with knockwurst fingers.

I am not promoting Square, just speaking of my experience so far. There other similar services out there, such as intuit go payment. I will continue to update on the experience and see the impact if any on sales when you accept Credit cards.

CC or Not

2011-07-11T21:12:00.004-05:00

Well the 2011 BSAF is over and in the bag. The big question for us was "if the acceptance of credit cards increased our business? Or better put Did not accepting Credit Cards hurt our sales?

Well here are some facts in 2011 our sales increased by 226% over 2010. Of the sales we made, 82% were done on credit cards. This year we have also sold more of our larger pieces, and less of the regular or normal sized pots. This trend was supported during both of our major shows.

I did notice in both of the shows, roughly 1/3 of the customers asked if you took credit cards prior to handing it to you, the other 2/3 either saw the 3"x3" sign or just assumed. I did have one person say after they asked if I took credit cards "good, cause they were out of cash." So that is one sale I would have missed out on.

In the past I was certain we didn't miss many sales due to the lack of credit acceptance, but after this weekend i'm not certain. I know personally when all i have left if my debit card, or short on cash I double check for the familiar logos of the credit conglomerates prior to purchasing or even going in.

We have another show this upcoming weekend, and we will see what it brings.

Back to the Blog

2011-07-07T20:00:00.002-05:00

It's been nearly a year since i visited this page, I've kept busy doing by w2 job overnights and pottery during the day. I know thats backwards for most people, but it works for me, although at times I'm not sure which is moonlighting anymore.

Over the past year, Kiesha and I have been deciding where and what we are going to do with the pottery side of our lives. We both love it, but it is very time consuming at times. Don't fret we are continuing, and also working towards expanding our market. I have been reading marketing books and searching the internet for ways to help us achieve our goal of being self sustaining potters.

We have begun giving lessons on the wheel, and working on creating a workshop for pitfiring, so if you are interested send us a line.

We have also been doing custom stoneware and earthenware orders, not that we have our own unique glazes, but we do know how to glaze and fire a piece.

We are about 36 hours out from the Brookings Summer Arts Festival and ready to go. We have started accepting credit cards via Square this year, and it will be interesting to see how it effects sales now that we accept credit cards.

I will try to update this more often, mainly with random thoughts and ideas, which I refer to brain drippings. I will still utilize Facebook for daily photos and regular updates, but this is another way to rant/rave/ converse/ whatever with less character limitations.

Future Updates.

2010-09-07T05:31:00.002-05:00

Please visit our Facebook page "Up in Smoke Pottery" for the latest photos and updates. I have found that to more widely accepted means of sharing our work. Thanks, Chad

Arts on the Shore

2010-06-11T22:04:00.002-05:00

This Weekend Up in Smoke Pottery is at Arts on the Shore in Worthington, MN. The art portion of the weekend runs from 11 am - 8 pm on Saturday 6/12. Hope to see you there!

Recent Firing

2010-05-17T05:07:00.004-05:00

We at Up in Smoke Pottery did a firing over the weekend, and got a few awesome pieces. Over the next few days we will get them cleaned, waxed, and inventoried. The paper saggars are out of this world. The new clay body is excellent, i love throwing it, it takes the thermal shock great. We had 37 pieces in the pit and only 2 broke! 23 of them will be finished as pits, which is 62%!!!

Check out our facebook page for pics soon. Search "Up in Smoke Pottery" in the search box and say you "like it" to continue to get updates.

Chad

Updated summer schedule

2010-05-03T15:40:00.001-05:00

Updated schedules so far....

April 11-May 9 Nobles County Area Art Show, Worthington, MN
June 11 & 12 Arts on the Shore, Worthington, MN
July 9 - 11 Brookings Summer Arts Festival, Brookings, SD

July 17-18, Art in the Park, Bemidji, MN
August 28 Art Rocks, Luverne, MN

Spinning

2010-04-28T07:31:00.001-05:00

Well, been spinning trying to fill the shelves back up so we can do a couple firings. Summer and the festivals will be here before I know it so i better keep at it.

Facebook account

2010-04-23T01:50:00.002-05:00

I am planning on doing a Piece of the Day on the Facebook account, be sure to "like it" when you visit. So I guess that means I will be on there at least once a day. click on the link on the left to get to the page or search for "Up in Smoke Pottery"

Up in Smoke is on Facebook

2010-04-22T12:56:00.003-05:00

Up in Smoke is now on Facebook. Click on the link on the left and you will be directed to the page and you can follow, like, be fan of, or whatever they are calling it now. Also been busy in the studio trying to fill shelves for another pit firing we are hoping in the next 2-3 weeks. I will keep you posted on the progress.

White Crane in Omaha

2010-04-15T23:11:00.002-05:00

Just delivered this week, several new pieces from last weeks firing ended up at White Crane Gallery in the Old Market district in Omaha. Be sure to check them out if you are in the area.

Opening

2010-04-11T02:40:00.003-05:00

Anyone in the area of Worthington, MN is welcome stop by and visit the open house at the Noble County Arts, in the basement of the library. It runs from 1-4 pm, and is showcasing its annual spring show. I know when I dropped off our pieces this week I saw several nice pieces of art I am looking forward to checking out closer when they are displayed. Hope to see you there.

Studio pics

2010-04-09T20:23:00.004-05:00

I had a couple minutes, so I took a couple pics of the "new" studio to share. Although it is not finished it will give you the idea of the space.

The wheel area and storage cupboards. The sink is the the left of the cupboards. Behind the chair is the clay storage. I can hold approx. 1 ton of clay at a time.

Here are the storage areas: the one on the left is the finished ware, I still need to move the rest over. The photo on the right is the drying table. Eventually it will be replaced with a rack similar to the finished ware race. The to the left of the drying table I may put a slab roller. I welcome your comments.

Summer Schedule

2010-04-08T10:08:00.003-05:00

Here is the start of the summer schedule...

April 11-May 9 Nobles County Area Art Show, Worthington, MN
June 11 & 12 Arts on the Shore, Worthington, MN
July 9 - 11 Brookings Summer Arts Festival, Brookings, SD
August 28 Art Rocks, Luverne, MN

There are a few we are waiting to hear from, but we will update as they come in.

Firing photos

2010-04-08T09:55:00.004-05:00

Here are a couple of the pieces finished over the last weekend. It was great to get out and fire again. I hope to be doing another one in a couple weeks.

What a weekend!

2010-04-06T03:22:00.002-05:00

Its been a great weekend, the weather held in the 30's in the morning and hit 60-70's in the afternoon. We got out and prepared the pit for firing, cleaned it out and repaired any damage from the cows. We fired a load in the pit, and a load of saggars, and last week spent the week doing blackware pieces. In my opinion we got some great pieces, I especially favor the saggars, they have the same hash marks, but are deeper gray/brown and the oranges are more diffuse giving the pots a warm glow. I might have to keep one for myself, We will see if Kiesha can find room for it.
As for the Pit Firing, another potter suggested I try some bacon grease. He advised he gave interesting results....well I can say this, it did make some interesting patterns on the side of the pots. I placed approx. 2 soup cans of grease in the pit in two different locations the colors of the pots were what I would call swamp green/brown. The pieces gave the appearance of a quilt, with areas of different shades of the swamp green/brown, but the unique part is they had a defined border.
The rest of the pit was normal, lots of great red, pink, burgundy, gray, black, green, and some blue. The new clay held up great, did have some breakage, but I contribute most of those to being inpatient and me lifting the pieces out from the fire. OOPS
This week, wax, photo, and inventory.

Functioning Studio

2010-03-16T01:59:00.002-05:00

Well on Friday I moved into the new studio. I love it! It still has the old paint on the basement walls, the studs are still showing. I have played with a couple different configurations and think i have settled on it. I been throwing some commission work for a person in Canada and then back to stocking the shelves. The snow is about 75% gone, the flood waters are rising so we are still hoping we can start firing in 2 weeks. Keep checking back I'll get pics posted once the pieces start coming out of the pits. I may post the studio, but I'll wait until i have the walls enclosed.

Updates...

2010-03-05T22:25:00.002-06:00

Well, it been over a month, just a little to keep you informed of our progress. Our son's hockey is winding down, so now there is more time for clay! I have our new clay body done and have nearly gone through the 1st shipment. It is AWESOME!!! It throws great, takes abuse and torture of stretching it out, I have successfully saggar fired it, and raku'd it with no problems. I even took a piece at approx 1000 F, and threw it into the snowbank, and it survived no cracks. I cannot wait to get into the pasture to the pits. I have several other tests lined up including Cone 5-6 stoneware, salt firing, soda firing, and a wood firing. Can't wait to see the results.

We are also remodeling/creating a new studio. The wheel will be moved in the laundry area in our basement, since we moved the washer and dryer out last year. I will have water nearby, no more dripping slop all over the basement as I walk to the sink. I am adding a lot more shelves for drying and storage. and a new work counter. I am looking forward to the increase of space. Currently I only have room for about 10 pieces to dry on the bats, so I throw 10 and I am done for the day, or at least several hours.

I am also attempting to give lessons on the wheel. I have a couple a students starting in the next couple weeks and several others on a waiting list. So if you are interested shoot me an email. I will have more time ( i think) in the months to come. This summer I could be in the studio just about every night with a student or two.

We are also applying for shows for the summer, we are staying with 4-6 shows, about the same as last year, we will let you know when the details are finalized.

Recent firings

2010-01-27T15:04:00.003-06:00

Although it is January and it is cold in South Dakota, I was able to fire a couple pieces. Here are a couple of them. One is a recent Stoneware load. Chad & Kiesha

Piper Custom Framing

2010-01-22T03:04:00.005-06:00

Just to start the year off, one of our local galleries that allows us to present our wares just started a blog. www.pipercustomframingandfineartgallery.blogspot.com Up in Smoke pottery is doing a seminar at our kids school tomorrow, it should be a great time. It is the same pinch pot pottery lesson Kiesha did all summer at the public library and was asked to do it again! Also this year, we have decided to open our studio/basement to lessons, and have worked out our spiel for the pit firing seminar tentatively scheduled for June. If you are in the area or are interested shoot us an email. I did do a saggar firing and a stoneware firing over the past couple weeks. I may post pics when I get time. Its time to buckle down and throw pots for the summer shows, but I will try to update as I get them. Thanks for checking out our blog.

Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T23:43:00.003-06:00

As the Holiday comes to a close, I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas and will have a Happy New year. Here in South Dakota we are have fun in the snow I believe we had 11-15 inches over the past couple days and about the same to come in the next couple days. Roads are closed, no travel advised. Snow plows have parked except for emergency situations where they go out in front of the responders. Rescuers have gotten out their snowmobiles for both in town and out of town. I shoveled twice today, my wife twice and we had it snow blown once. Anyway, thanks for a great year, and hope to see you next year!

Chad & Kiesha

Holiday Show/Sale

2009-12-01T19:31:00.002-06:00

Up in Smoke Pottery just returned from Worthington, MN dropping off a few pieces for their annual Holiday Show/Sale at the Nobles County Art Center. The show opening is Sunday December 6th from 1-4 in the afternoon. (weather dependent) If you are in the area, be sure to check it out.

Piper Custom Framing

2009-11-25T15:51:00.004-06:00

Just delivered a load of new pieces to Piper Custom Framing, Jon and Beth do a great job down there. If you are in the area check it out. Or you can order online from them as well. Just click on their link on the left.

Made in South Dakota

2009-11-19T13:33:00.004-06:00

Up in Smoke Pottery is now available online through Made in South Dakota. It is part of the State's Tourism department. The site itself has lots of interesting and unique South Dakota made products. Here is the link to my store, I do offer free shipping at this time.

www.upinsmokepottery.madeinsouthdakota.com

I also am putting a link in the links category.

Firing Results

2009-11-12T18:29:00.004-06:00

Here are some of the results from recent firings. Couple from the Pit at the beginning of the month and on Wednesday we did a quick "burn ring" pit. It is a hybrid of a pit and barrel firing. If the weather cooperates we will try to do a couple more of those firings also I will need to test my new clay body. If you have any questions/comments let me know.

November firing pics

2009-11-09T19:42:00.004-06:00

Here are a couple photos of the firing we did couple weekends ago. We forgot the camera on firing day, so we didn't get any before shots. Once I get them all cleaned up and waxed I will post a couple more photos.

November firing results

2009-11-04T03:57:00.004-06:00

Well we did it. We ended up firing on Sunday afternoon. Started by digging a new pit. We eliminated the dung, salt logs, and saggars in this firing. We played with increasing the ratio of bananas, also played with baking soda vs salt. We also had several other "test" in this pit. Luckily we are just firing for a little stock so we did not need a big turnout. The baking soda did not produce or facilitate the colors as the salt did. The bananas did not do as they had in the past. The stoneware did not handle the firing as well as it had in the past. We will add the dung and salt logs back into the mix next spring. We have a few finishable pieces which I will post some of the pics later this week. On the bright side, the new pit design worked wonderfully, burned evenly and created a even bed of ash for the pots to finish in. We had a chance to bury pit #2 so it can return to the prairie landscape. And best of all the cows stayed away this time!

One more firing this fall

2009-10-30T05:27:00.002-05:00

Well, we are going to do one more pit fire this fall. We are planning on Monday 11/2. The weather looks to cooperate, with only a slight chance of rain on Sunday. We were thinking about Saturday, but it rained almost all of Thursday, overnight, and chance of snow on Friday. That may make it a little damp to get into the pasture. We may even have help on Monday. A fellow potter from Luverne, MN is wanting to pit fire a couple pieces and we were happy to oblige. She may even venture out and partake in the fun. I guess you can say she is the guinea pig for a pit-firing seminar we are supposed to do next year. I'll keep you posted on how it turns out.

2009-10-24T12:53:00.003-05:00

Well, here are the results of the recent wood firing. We reached cone 10 in about 9 hrs and maintained temp for another 12 or so. We had a great amount of ash on the pieces as you can see on the face cups. The sides are bare, there is a rutile wash over the face area. The vase is one of my favorite shinos, although it did not perform as normal, but still turned out okay. The house numbers did not get as much ash as i would have hoped, but it gives them a nice rustic look.

Wood Fire

2009-10-16T22:25:00.002-05:00

Well it is that time of year again. About once a year We decide to play with some high fire work, I use the same clay body, but I do play with glazes. This year it is a wood fire, I participated in about 6-8 of these, various degrees of success. This year I am doing "snot cups" again, typically I have finished them in the gas kiln, but timing is right for the wood fire. I also have new house number tiles, and I did throw in one vase with a glaze i really like. Tomorrow it will be lit, and it will be my responsibility to watch it overnight. If things turn out I may post a couple pics in a few days.

Bemidji Community Arts Center

2009-10-04T02:20:00.002-05:00

Well, spent between 12-13 hours in the minivan on Friday for a trip to Bemidji, MN. We went up to deliver some fresh pieces to the art center. It was really a beautiful drive and encourage anyone to hasn't driven there. We didn't spend much time there just straight up to the gallery and back, with a brief stop in Fargo for some Christmas shopping, and then back home. Yes Christmas shopping. Anyway here is the link to the art center in Bemidji.... www.bcac.wordpress.com

Representation in Omaha!

2009-09-30T04:49:00.003-05:00

Up in Smoke Pottery now has great pit fired pottery and saggar fired pottery in Omaha, Nebraska! We have reached an agreement with White Crane Gallery in the Old Market District in Omaha. It is a awesome little shop in the passageway. If you are near Omaha, it is worth a visit.

Sidewalk Arts

2009-09-15T05:00:00.003-05:00

Thanks for a great Sidewalk Arts. It was great to meet and chat with you. That concludes our festival schedule for this year. We now will decide where we will be next year, keep checking the blog for updates. We have a couple gallery things in the works, dates and details will be released as they are finalized.

Sidewalk Arts

2009-09-10T09:19:00.005-05:00

The weatherman cannot make up his mind on what is going to be like so I guess I will bring my Weather Rock. Hope to see everyone this weekend in downtown Sioux Falls for Sidewalk Arts. Up in Smoke Pottery will be in booth 71, which will be just outside the east Pavilion doors unless that changes before we set up. Here's a couple pics of some of the recent work that we will have down there.

Up in Smoke in the News!

2009-09-04T23:31:00.002-05:00

Just found a photo of me on the Rock County Star Hearld website from Art Rocks. It will be the 2nd photo from the left.

Here is the link:
http://www.star-herald.com/detail/19271.html?content_source=&category_id=&search_filter=&event_mode=&event_ts_from=&list_type=&order_by=&order_sort=&content_class=1&sub_type=photos&town_id=

New Piece

2009-09-02T22:52:00.003-05:00

We will have new pieces for the Sidewalk Arts next weekend. We have been playing with making tiles and framing them. I spent today making the frames, we are going with simple wide width frames much like the Craftsman style. The tiles I have done so far are 3" x 6" and a couple 3" x 3". The tiles turned out really neat, we may have a couple in our home to accent the walls. I might post a few pics when I get them completed, or you may just have to wait until Sept 12 to see them at Sidewalk Arts.

Pit Fire part 1

2009-08-26T00:18:00.006-05:00

I have been asked at recent show to show a few photos of the process. I know some people do not believe I use white clay, but you can see for yourself in picture #2. These are from the firing we did on 8/24/2009.

Here is a pit, yes it truly is a hole in the ground.

This is the base layer, organics such as leaves, grass, etc plus sawdust and the first colorants.

The pieces are set in the hole, notice a few paper bag saggars in the mix.

Now add some wood, and some more wood....

light it up and watch it burn.

Pit Fire part 2

2009-08-26T00:10:00.006-05:00

Once the fire is going we let it go. We watch to make sure the grass doesn't start burning outside the pit area. This fire was very hot, the dark orange flames put the temperature of the fire between 1800-2000 degrees (according to a old book from 1905). The pots are not at that temperature just the flames at their base.

Here are photos of some of the pieces, notice there is not a lot of color yet. The pots go in white, initially turn black from the smoke and as they heat the black burns off at about 1000-1200
degrees. The clay will remain white until it cools more of the color becomes apparent.

Pit Fire part 3

2009-08-25T23:56:00.007-05:00

Above is the the pit when we went back in the morning.

Here are some of the pieces out of the pit. They will be washed and waxed later.

I Hope you enjoyed the photos of our recent firing. It was not our best for color but you at least get an idea of the process. Thanks for looking and feel free to comment or send me and email with any questions.

Chad

ART ROCKS!!!!

2009-08-23T22:28:00.003-05:00

It was a great weekend for the show. Great weather, it was so nice to be on the ground of the Rock County Courthouse. There was a steady flow of people to visit with, I enjoyed meeting and talking with you all. It was also a great weekend.....Up in Smoke Pottery won Best in Show! That was a honor. Tomorrow back to the pit to get stocked up for Sidewalk Arts on Sept 12. See you there.

Luverne Art Rocks!

2009-08-21T00:49:00.004-05:00

Up in Smoke Pottery will be at Art Rocks in Luverne, MN this Saturday from 9-4. Our booth will be somewhere on the Rock County Courthouse Square. There is a 2nd art show event downtown Luverne, that means lots of great art to look at hope to see you there!

Good News

2009-08-12T13:47:00.005-05:00

Up in Smoke Pottery is in negotiations with a long standing gallery in Omaha. We will keep you posted as it progresses. Also don't forget Art Rocks in Luverne, MN is coming up on Aug. 22. It will be held on the courthouse lawn this year. I believe I heard there will about 22 artists on the lawn, and there is a separate show at the coffee house with a few more. Look forward to seeing you there!

Vintage Iowa Uncorked

2009-08-10T00:26:00.003-05:00

It was a hot weekend, with 15 hours or so of live music from some great Omaha area bands. It was great to meet so many new people. We had fun and even have a picture in the Daily Nonpareil of a couple looking at our work! I'm sorry I didn't catch their names, I blame the heat. The newspaper web site is http://www.southwestiowanews.com/. I did not get a chance to sample any of the many fine wines offered but I heard great reviews of them and saw lots of wine being carted off.

New show added!

2009-07-24T22:10:00.004-05:00

Up in Smoke Pottery will be at the Western Iowa Wine trail on Aug 7-8th. It is 3-9pm on Friday and 12-9 pm Saturday at Ditmar's Orchard outside of Council Bluffs, IA. There will be 7 wineries and several artist booths. Check out the link below to find out more info and directions. Hope to see you there.

http://www.westerniowawinetrail.com/

Brookings Summer Art Festival

2009-07-14T15:20:00.005-05:00

Thank you for everyone who came out and saw our work. It was a great weekend and we enjoyed talking with you. Now we are getting ready for ART ROCKS in Luverne, MN on Aug 22nd. Hope to see you there. In the mean time you can view my work at these fine galleries...

Piper Custom Framing in Sioux Falls, SD http://www.pipercustomframing.com/
Prairie Moon Gallery in Luverne, MN http://www.prairiemoongallery.com/
Shop 426, Bemidji, MN http://www.bcac.wordpress.com/

2009-07-08T19:57:00.002-05:00

Well just about have everything packed for Brookings. The Displays have been updated, added a vertical accordion shelf, new skirts for the tables. The last firings have been photoed, inventoried, labeled, priced, and packed. Below is a few of the photos of the most recent firings, all of which will be in Brookings. We are looking forward to seeing you there. We are in booth #79, Up in Smoke Pottery, I'll be the one in the orange shoes.

Recent Firings 1

2009-07-08T19:55:00.001-05:00

Recent Firings 2

2009-07-08T19:45:00.004-05:00

It is official

2009-07-02T22:19:00.003-05:00

We have been accepted for Sidewalk Arts in Downtown Sioux Falls. It will be on Saturday September 12th from 9-5? We have been assigned Booth 71 which is directly outside the east entrance to the pavilion. We will be in Brookings next weekend, the 11th and 12th in Pioneer Park for the Brookings Summer Arts Festival. There we will be in booth 79, which is ENE of the band shell. See you there!

June's Pit Fire

2009-06-24T17:04:00.003-05:00

Well, I did it, not possibly the best idea to fire the pit in a thunderstorm. In case you didn't catch the hint...IT RAINED! I reached the pit and the skies were light gray, weatherman said i had until 3 pm, it is 9am so I began. I dug out the damage from the cows and began the layers, When I had about half the pit filled, the wind picked up. I was at a point of no return with out losing the chems and other materials so i continued as fast as I could, hoping i could get it lit and fully engulfed in fire before the rain hit. I didn't make it. My son was busy chasing down the tubs and paper as the wind blew them across the county. I lost several newspapers, a box of banana peels, and lots of paper bags. As i put the last of the wood onto the pile I was at nearly at 45 a degree angle against the wind. I tried lighting the paper but the rain had won, i was soaked. I gave up and headed to my parents to wait out the storm.
4 hrs later i was able to return to the pit, the cows that are in that pasture decide the wood pile was fun to climb on, there was a cow standing on top of the pit. It ran off as i got closer. The edge of the pit was caved in with hoof prints, I'm was sure most of the edge pieces were destroyed. There was also plenty of fresh manure on and in the pit, which is good in the storm i didn't throw any in. I did manage to get it to light. I let is burn for about an hour and I covered it since i had to get back to town for kids activities.
We went back this morning, and it was better then expected, there were only 4 broken pieces. Somehow the network of wood held the weight of the cow(s). The color were not as bold as our previous firings, I think the rain had rinsed the colorants either away or diluted them to lessen their potency. I post a few pics next week or so when i get them finished.

Rained out again!!

2009-06-21T23:23:00.004-05:00

Well the weatherman was partially right, the rain was done by noon, but it was much more than the .1-.25 of an inch expected. Kiesha allowed me to take "her" good van in the field and get it covered in mud. The cows had destroyed the salt box kiln and trampled the wood pile. I guess the wood is "preseasoned" for the next firing. I cannot figure how or why the cows move the pottery shards all over the area. We are planning on trying on Tuesday again, it is supposed to be in the high 80's and 90's the next two days to dry the ground out a little. There is a still a 20% chance of rain in the overnights until then.

Here we go again....Maybe

2009-06-18T19:45:00.002-05:00

Well, we are going to shoot for Sunday afternoon for a Pit fire. I cannot think of a better way to spend fathers day then roasting a bunch of clay pots over a large open fire. There is however a 20% chance of rain, but we will not worry about that. We will keep you posted....until then.

RAIN...

2009-06-15T13:11:00.003-05:00

Well I was planning to fire the pit tomorrow to have a few more pieces for Brookings Art Festival, but mother nature has other plans. It has been raining most of the morning today and supposed to continue as scattered showers for a couple days. At least I have a couple more weeks left to fit it in.

2009-06-07T16:38:00.003-05:00

Well, it was a typical Buffalo Days experience, cold and rainy. Although it was my first as an artist I have worked in a booth there for many years. Thanks to all of you who braved the weather and stopped by. I know I was soaked and chilled to the bone by 10 am. Our next show is Brookings Summer Art Festival on July 11 & 12. As for now we are in booth 79 in the NE sector of Pioneer Park, in Brookings South Dakota. We are looking forward to seeing you there!

2009-06-03T10:03:00.004-05:00

It has been a busy week, here at Up in Smoke Pottery! We finally have caught up cataloging the first few firings. We have also packed up for Buffalo Days this weekend in Luverne, MN. We will be in the City Park from 9-4 on 6/6/09 for Arts in the Park. Hope to see you there. If I have done it correctly the photo box on the upper left side should be updated as well in case you want to see more of our work. I am also posting a couple pics of recent work.

May Pit Fire

2009-05-22T00:39:00.003-05:00

Well, I squeezed in another pit fire this week. I actually completed it in under a day, the 30 mph winds assisted in the cooling and mostly like fueled the fire so it burned faster. I did not notice much change in the results, but I will know more in a few days when I wash the pieces. Next week we are planning to do a few saggar firing to stock up for the summer shows. I'll post a few pics when I get a chance. Thanks for looking

Buffalo Days

2009-05-08T11:05:00.004-05:00

Join us at Buffalo Days in Luverne, MN on Saturday June 6th. It is their annual arts in the park festival. We will have booth set up displaying lots of our work for this year. I look forward to meeting all of you there!

Pit Fire Results

2009-05-05T20:43:00.005-05:00

Well, we finally had time to clean and seal the pieces from the last pit fire. Here are a couple of the photos from the pit and some of the finished pieces. Thanks for looking.

Pieces in the flames, they appear white now, but the colors appear as they cool.

Here are some of the results....Remember all colors are derived from vapors getting trapped in the pores of the clay while it is hot. There are no glazes of any kind.

2009-04-20T01:11:00.003-05:00

Well, the 1st pit fire of the year is complete. The weather complied just enough to let us do it. We had to dig a new pit since the vehicles could not cross the creek to our normal pit we have used in the past. This pit is a true pit and we needed to jump into it. It was so deep initially we hit ground water and had to fill it in to get a solid base. When we returned to open the pit, it had filled part way with water submerging most of the pots. We only fired about 35 pieces, of which about 30 survived. I think we were too rough loading it and broke most of those in the process. We did get some awesome reds on some of the pieces and several blue areas. The oranges were not as prevalent this time, will have to work on that. Over all not bad considering the weather, we have several nice pieces which I will take pics soon and post.
We also played with a salt box kiln. The results were mixed. I will continue to play with it and try to get the results I think it should produce.

Pit Fire

2009-04-17T23:45:00.001-05:00

As you may have guessed we have not gotten out to the pit. Schedules and weather have not been cooperating. But, never fear, we have the van loaded and ready to go. We are going 1st thing in the morning. They are forecasting rain, anywhere between a 20%-80% chance in the afternoon. We are hoping to have the pit covered before the rain falls. We may squeeze in a barrel firing and maybe a saltbox. I'll let you know how it turns out.

Open House

2009-03-27T12:02:00.002-05:00

First off want to thank everyone who made it out the open house in Cedar Falls, and thanks to Beth and Steve for having us there. It was a great time.
On our way back we stopped at the Prairie Moon Gallery in Luverne, MN. We updated her selection with a few newer pieces, she still has one of the best pit fire pieces I have ever done. If you are in the area, check it out before she buys it herself.
The weather is looking like we might be able to get to the pit, planning on next weekend if we can get across the creek. Hopefully we can and we will have some new work to post.

2009-03-15T05:15:00.003-05:00

It been crazy this week and I believe the next couple weeks are going to the same if not worse. I am currently spending any/all free time in the studio trying to have enough pieces for a couple pit firings to fill the vacancies in some of the galleries. Speaking of galleries, Remember Friday night in Cedar Falls is the open house, come if you are able. Also we delivered a round of fresh work to Piper Gallery here in Sioux Falls. Check them out at http://www.pipercustomframing.com/

2009-03-09T18:26:00.002-05:00

Mark you calenders, here is the official announcement of our open house in Cedar Falls, IA! Sounds like fun hope to see you there.

2009-03-05T13:10:00.003-06:00

Here is a couple of newer pieces from the last couple firings. Couple of the foil saggar, and a couple blackware pieces. I am enjoying the blackware still searching for the ultimate end product but these have been a hit. Don't forget to mark your calenders for March 20 in Cedar Falls, IA. My wife and I will be there at the

Element Portraits Studio for an open house. Come and say hi and look at our work. There is a nice selection there currently and we will bring some more with us for the event. Hope to see you there!

Open House

2009-02-18T20:39:00.004-06:00

Great news? Up in Smoke Pottery's 1st open house of 2009 is scheduled and confirmed. It will be at the Elements of Art Gallery in Cedar Falls, IA on March 20th. If you are in the area that night stop by and say hi. Their web address is http://www.elementportraits.com/, the link to the gallery portion is on the lower right side of the home page.

Check back soon for more information.

Black ware tests

2009-02-06T09:36:00.005-06:00

Well, here are a couple of the "black ware" tests. It took me a little longer than expected to get pics taken. Both of these have been "smoked" to achieve the color, there is no glaze!
Traditionally the pieces are buried in manure and dirt once the fire got going. the carbon would be trapped in the pores of the clay sealing it and making it water proof. historical samples have been found all over the world dating back 1000's of years.
We stumbled on it by accident following the instructions from a web site for another "naked" look. I'm not sure if I goofed up, or the instructions were not accurate. I am enjoying the contrast between the high sheen areas and the areas that are more matte. Feel free to send and comments or questions.

2009-01-19T22:14:00.002-06:00

Here are a couple from the latest style we are toying with. It is a multiple firing process to achieve the oranges, remember there is no glaze on the pot. It will take anywhere from 2 to 4 firings to get the color to come out. We also are experimenting with "black ware." It was discovered on accident, and the piece was gone before I could take a picture of it. I have a couple of pieces in the bisque kiln I am planning on attempting to recreate it. If it turns out I'll post pics later.

Saggar Pottery

2009-01-19T09:33:00.003-06:00

this is a sample of the foil saggar technique. I had read about it, and was unsure until I attended a workshop with Charlie and Linda Riggs and i was hooked. I have played with the technique to vary the results a little. The 1st and 2nd photo is what I was taught and final is where I took it so far. I am still playing around.

Paper Saggars

2009-01-18T21:32:00.003-06:00

These two are also done in the "Pit", but they are giftwraped in newpaper holding the chemicals near to the pot. We have gotten this "porcelain look" to very vibrant colors. unfortunately i didn't take any pictures of those prior to them leaving our collection.

Pit Fired

2009-01-18T21:25:00.002-06:00

Here is a sampling of the the Pit Fired pieces. This is our favorite process. We have large hole in the ground, fill it full of sawdust, "chemicals", wood, paper, etc and set it afire. It is basically a large bonfire that could produce toxic marshmellows. Several other of the finishes are done in pit as well.

2009-01-18T21:14:00.000-06:00

Well, here it goes. I'm not what you call tech savy, but family has asked for images of our work. Our website is in the works, but not ready for its debut. My wife and I started our little pottery business after several years of arm twisting and research. The majority of our work is fumed in an open pit using no glaze. This means the work is not sealed and will leach water over time. We achieve the color by various chemicals and or natural products heated to the point they vaporize and stain the pot surface. The colors do not come off. Over the next several days/weeks I hope to put several pics of pieces we have done. Almost all of the first pieces posted here are either sold or in a gallery, we are waiting for warmer weather to start firing again. I hope you enjoy and feel free to send us any comments. Thanks Chad & Kiesha