I really like to think that clouds have silver linings, but when I peeked in the kiln and saw the horrible dripping of copper red glaze off of 30 mugs, I threw a fit (literally!).
It’s embarrassing. That’s why I don’t actually like for anyone to be around when I first open the kiln. Opening the kiln is sort of a ritual. It is very personal with me. ANY comments from by-standers can be taken offensively – even if they were not meant to be so by the offender. So it is best that I’m alone when I open the kiln.
The results were ridiculous! I know better! But I did get good reduction and great reds!
But…..
There was a silver lining!
After all the horrors of the stupid application mistakes that I had made:
- Mixing new glazes batches of tried and true glazes
- Mixing and using totally new glazes
- Trying new combinations
- Trying new application techniques
A jewel – a success – emerged! Copper Red (2 different recipes) sprayed one on top of the other) and Rutile Blue sprayed over wax on PB103 clay. Simple. Why has this taken me so freakin’ long! Now to replicate!
So what did I do with all those mugs? You got it! Binned them!
The great news is that it is just clay. Just glaze. Just time.
It isn’t cancer or death or anything life threatening.
So I must quit my bitching, be thankful for my life and all the good things! Like Ronnie and Sam and Liz (who I will see soon!! in Texas!)!
Peace out!
Marian
