Project 1:  Espresso cups

 After learning the basic forms and trying out some different decorating techniques, about 4 or 5 months into my journey,  I wanted to start my first pottery project. I chose to make a gift for my friend's birthday. I decided on some espresso cups. Then I set myself free to go with what I felt and ask advice when I needed it.  


This is the body of the cups before I turned a foot into the bottom and attached handles.

Then I had to decide what handles I wanted. I knew I did not want ordinary handles so I got some potential suggestions from my instructor. I chose circular handles  cut from cylinders I threw on the wheel.

Then I attached them to the cups.I am really happy with my choice!

When they dried I smoothed out any rough edges. Once they were completely dry they went in the kiln for their first firing (bisque firing).

Finally I glazed them and now they are ready for the kiln.

I chose 2 bold colors that I like to use together.  One is cobalt and the other is ginger. Now for the final firing... 

 I was so nervous! I was thinking of all the things that could  go wrong. Like, maybe I didn't apply the glaze well or something else I hadn't thought of would happen. I had invested so much in them already as pottery is a dynamic process and  so far everything had worked out great! Of course you learn from each experience but it still stinks when you are waiting for something and it comes out a mess. :)

I was absolutely blown away with the results. It was an amazing feeling to design and start a project and follow it through. To start with little lumps of clay and work them into espresso cups that I am still so proud of! Every time I look at them or touch them I feel complete and total satisfaction in the deepest depths of my soul.

 This project literally opened up a whole new chapter in my pottery journey. My first project was an absolute thrill and success! Now, onto my next one!!