The Winter Wrap...

It’s been a whirlwind year so far — I can’t believe we’re already halfway through! I’m in socks and boots, with the oil heater humming in the shed. The pooches are curled up in warm spots, chasing long snoozes. The clay journey continues with a slightly more functional focus and plenty of purposeful play with colour.

A love affair with jugs

Turning my attention to the humble jug has triggered a kind of creative recalibration. Learning to make a jug that actually works — pours well, feels good to use, and sparks joy — has been a rich and rewarding challenge. It’s led me deeper into the world of clay, as I question everything, take stock of what I love, and gently reset my compass. As it turns out, the jug is a perfect learning vessel (pun intended!). It’s helped me explore new clays and dive into surface decoration techniques, including the refined elegance of Terra Sigillata. (a refined clay slip).

Creating cosy moments

What does that really mean? To me, it’s about making something thoughtful and useful for your home — simple, beautiful pieces that bring everyday joy.

They don’t need to be centrepieces. I’ve been making small, purposeful things like a condiment jug and server for the table, a toothbrush holder for the bathroom, and soon I’ll start on new tabletops for our copper side tables in the lounge. I’ll share these on socials as they take shape. And the best part? You can create your own cosy moments too.

On-line workshop with Dr Cathy Franzi

I recently attended an online workshop with a clay buddy. We are both longtime admirers of Cathy Franzi’s work and were keen to learn her surface decoration techniques. We worked on white clay tiles using slips, carving, stencils made from newspaper cut-outs, and more.

What stood out most, aside from learning something new, was the joy of revisiting familiar techniques in fresh ways. You might spot simplified versions of these approaches popping up in my work soon. I’m excited to share them with you as part of your own cosy moment projects.

Sharing Inspiration

Podcast Art Juice.  Louise Fletcher and Alice Sheridan are visual artists, both abstract painters, who share their journey and chat about all things creative.   They discuss a broad range of topics, which are interesting and insightful for all artists and creatives.  I enjoy their uplifting outlook, helpful tips and sage advice, as they talk though the joyful realities of being an artist.  

Book Around the world in 80 pots.  This book explores ceramic pieces found at the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, England.  Each pot has its own story, many of which are charming, blending function with ritual and cultural significance.   I loved being able to read a short story before lights out each night, and really enjoyed the insights of each pot’s history.

Classes

Classes are now simpler and more in sync with what’s happening in the studio. Sessions have shifted from 3 hours to 2, which has been a great rhythm this year. Shed Sessions continue to offer flexible, self-directed making time. In addition, I’m offering two special classes per month on Saturday mornings.

Each runs over two sessions:

• One 2.5-hour session to make

• One 1.5-hour session to decorate

This season: Winter Warmers — Clay for Light and Ritual

Together, we’ll make candle holders, tea lights, and incense infusers — the perfect winter project.

Book your place: www.theclayeffect.com.au/book-online

I know winter can be a quieter time, so I hope these little clay moments bring you warmth. If you are working on something, or have an idea bubbling away in your mind, I would love to hear from you. Please feel free to reply and share!