Introduction to Colorful Patterned Ceramics

Sara Theron starts by introducing herself and talking about her background in ceramics. She shares how lots of her inspiration for creating her stunning decorative pieces is drawn from folk art and nature.

Step into the magical world of ceramics by running through the different types of clay, the materials needed, and potential sources of inspiration, whether they're drawings, books, or countries like Japan. Make a sketch of your vase and the patterns you want to paint on it before defining a color palette.

Once this planning work is all sewn up, set up your workspace and start modeling the clay. First, create the base of the vase using the pinching method, then the top part using the slab technique. Assemble the pieces before adding the handles and the foot.

Once your work is modelled and dried, discover a specific kind of ceramic paint called engobes, then prepare your color chart. Paint the inside first, then move on to the outside of the vase before tackling the patterns and handles. Don't forget to add your signature! Finally, enamel your creation in order to protect it, then fire it.

To wrap up the course, Sara gives you some ideas for floral arrangements to keep refreshing your creation over time. Have a look at how to package your ceramics and care for them so that they last a lifetime.