Updates

Saggar and raku projects are always joys to see when they come out of the kiln, but watching functional pottery being used by their owners really is a thrill. Bowls, mugs, plates, vases, and bottles are the nuts and bolts of pottery, and I get a thrill when I see my handiwork in use.

I don’t create on demand. I make what moves me any given day, constantly experimenting with forms and glazes. Some items look amazing and others are abject failures. I cherish each experience, because it’s all about learning.

Saggar pottery typically starts with fired but unglazed pots that are coated with certain chemicals, salts, and organic material. These are placed inside another container (the saggar) prior to final firing.

When fired, oxygen is consumed in the saggar and it holds fumes from the burning and melting material close to the pot, creating colors and patterns on the pot’s surface. Once cool, a liquid or paste wax seals the pot to retain the colors.

An Ancient Process

Saggars were historically other unglazed clay vessels, but I use aluminum foil to enclose my pottery. Although saggar pottery will hold water it is not food safe. Rewax your pot occasionally to enhance its color and shine

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