Here goes again..the never ending project. THe teapot I had fired ok except for one small separation on the bottom foot from the base. Plus I shortened the spout to add the chickens, and I shortened too much. Soooooooooooo I am going to send this one so she can see I am still working on it, I have teapot number 6 a third of the way. I am doing something different so there will hopefully be no chance for pull away on the handle. I think the base just got too dry before I attached the handle and I rushed the drying process because I was so far behind and embarrassed. I can say one thing, I have learned so much in this project that has made me a better artist in the long run. Reds and blues that don't burn off in cone ten. THat I can mix them with a glaze and have it turn out exactly like I want with some shine. That the handles on the cups were too rough feeling, but a very thin coat of clear satin hardly shows, doesn't make it glossy, and feels a whole lot better to the touch. And so on, and so on . As long as they are patient, I am perfectly willing to keep trying until I get it right. I gave my word, after 2 broken bones, and a hurt neck, I am just about back up to my normal self and am at it again. My cats are better, I am most pleased I think with the last two I put on the handles of the cups and have had good response back from people on facebook that are willing to give me their opinions. THat is priceless. The cups are in the gas kiln now. THe teapot one, is ready to deliver, the better teapot is in the tin being worked on, as well as the coop. When I get it all together I will post and see what you all think.
I still made a couple other easier things for the auction this year and was over the top happy that the auction brought in a hundred and five thousand dollars for the shelter, the highest amount so far. And I have ideas, like my tambourine bank cat that I made a small version to test out my idea. It came out well I think, so I will be more able to do a larger version for 2015.
My friend Cindy joined in this year, recruiting other artists is a part of my participation too. SHe made a lovely heron stain glass piece and is already thinking of what she can do for next year.
It is really fun to have a friend not only join in, but come to the auction with me. So back to work. Cross your fingers number 5 is the charm.
I could fill that space in the foot with an epoxy or something and make it not show, but, if someone ever put it in the dishwasher, that would be that. She said they don't drink tea, and that it is a decorative item, but still. IF it is a teapot, I think it ought to be able to serve tea.
the coins slide right down with a satisfying clunk. I didnt' burnish the color in because that satin clear works so much better. He hasn't been bisque fired yet, so time will tell. My harmonica cat turned out ok, so he should. But I never count on anything.
THe lady I am making this for paid the clinic directly for my dogs heartworm test and tabs, plus half of Neccy pts appointment. I am forever grateful and trying to do the best I can. She recently found out one of her yorkies like MR. Shaffer has developed cancer. I will be doing both dogs.
I might do one for the auction next year as well. Each time I do one, it goes a little faster, and turns out a bit better. My friend Cindy as two yorkies as we4ll and she brought me clay and the blue mason stain I needed. So I have 3 to make yet if this one turns out ok, 4 if I do one for next year's auction.
Not fired yet as well in photo.