After several months of experimenting with different clays, I’ve recently acquired a miniature pottery wheel and a microwave kiln, adding a twist to my pottery journey. My skills in making polymer clay hockey skates have improved, but I’ve also encountered the mentally challenging aspects of pottery, like ruining pieces at various stages.
The miniature pottery wheels from Small Ceramics are functional for creating small and regular-sized mugs, unlike the poorly designed $5 toy wheel I initially tried. Using air-dried clay can be tough; it requires more force than regular clay, and lacks the satisfying sound of kiln-fired ceramics.
Attempting to throw real clay on the miniature wheel felt similar to using a regular-sized wheel but required more delicacy. I struggled with drying my pieces, leading me to try a microwave kiln to speed up the firing process. However, this method has its drawbacks, including unpredictable outcomes and potential safety concerns.
My first attempt resulted in explosions due to trapped moisture in the glaze and mishandled drying. I learned the importance of patience and proper techniques to avoid thermal shock to the kiln. Over time, with various failures, I’ve managed to finish pieces that, while not functional, bring me joy. My creations serve more as cute trinkets than usable pottery, and I hope to share them with friends and neighbors, ensuring they find a place despite their limitations.
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