This week I had my very first lesson in creating a plate with raised reliefs out of clay. I was hooked!

It took about 2 hours to roll out the clay and put it on the form and trim.  Then another 4 hours to roll, cut and attach the design, and add details, along with a couple of coats of glaze.

I have wanted to do this for many years, but didn’t feel confident to try on my own. My teacher, Kate Mcbride, who shows her work in London and has some very well known clients, was very thorough and really dispelled some of the myths of doing ceramics.  I made sure I attached everything with scores and slip and kept the height quite level accross the plate.

I can’t wait to see it fired. That will be next week. The plate will be auctioned to raise funds to buy rainforest for Orangutans. I felt very honoured to help.

I will also be illustrating a piece for the auction and writing a poem too. I love collaboration and am always open to helping raise funds for good causes.  ♡