Midwest Clay Project

Been puzzling on this one for the past couple of weeks…why our latest batch of Shiny Bone didn’t have its reliable floating white with ‘hare’s fur’ lines and a bit of run. We confirmed the chemistry was correct by remixing a smaller batch (the proportions were right), we then broke the smaller batch into even smaller batches and tried adding more flux, more silica, and finally more rutile in small percentage increments to isolate our variables. The closest fix appears to be adding a bit more rutile ~1% (bottom left corner rectangular tile compared to the one that is labeled).

So interesting (and occasionally frustrating) how our raw materials vary over time. I think we’ve got this batch dialed in. My guess would be this is going to be a change that either disappears as we work through materials and order more..or it’s here to stay as we’ve had to substitute two different things over the past 6 months. If it’s the latter it may be time to start testing for a new glaze altogether.

Hats off to the diligent and careful testing performed by your studio assistants!

I finally made it up to Door County to see studio member Cindy Koshalek’s gallery! It’s worth a stop if you’re in the area.

Sneak peeks from the glaze kilns this weekend…

Lake Loop Art Tour this Saturday 9/19 10-5 (rain or shine) & Kids Clay Club starting Monday! - https://mailchi.mp/3d1fe7009870/reopening-party-spring-class-enrollment-other-news-17461850

Early Fall classes are underway (still discounted space in a few), Late Fall enrolling now!

Exciting projects coming out of Handbuilding 2! Early Fall Classes start in a couple of weeks—enroll online.

Check out our Classes this Fall | Adult and Youth - https://mailchi.mp/ed0a5deb91ce/reopening-party-spring-class-enrollment-other-news-17460788

Hey MCP members, we have a NEW yellow to try out! Introducing Mackersie Yellow! Beautiful satiny opaque yellow that rivulets when thick. It looks good on stoneware and marvelous on B-clay.

WARNING: it is runny, especially when layered—experts only! (Or do some cautious testing until you’re an expert.)

With Summer classes underway that means Early Fall classes are open for enrollment and start in 6 weeks! Visit our website to grab your spot!

Visit us at the Waterfront Festival at Yahara Park in Madison today 11:30-6:30pm! We’re by the second stage and the b**r tent.