Handmade by DINA

When describing my pottery I use the word ‘handmade’, however to say that label feels like an understatement. So I wanted to share what it means to me.

For every single step in the process of creating pottery, touching the clay with my hands is critical. Two things are happening simultaneously: I am using my hands to change the clay in some way, and also to feel it and get information and feedback from the clay. It is truly an organic exploration. I try not to rush any of the steps; clay does not like to be rushed.

Ways I use my hands with clay:

• wedging, centering on the wheel, opening, pulling, shaping 
• if it is being altered from a symmetrical wheel thrown shape into a new form...stretching, smoothing, carving and sculpting 
• checking the moisture and firmness before trimming the pot, and creating a foot
• pulling and attaching a handle 
• creating texture, patterns or windows/openings 
• applying glazes with a paint brush, several coats

I believe that the variations you see and feel between one completed piece and another are what make handmade pottery unique and special...like a fingerprint. I hope the next time you touch, use or admire a piece of handmade pottery, you will take an extra moment to savor the details of the glaze, texture and form.

Each piece is one of a kind.