Longer Days

In eastern NC, spring is filled with yellow, pine pollen and it seems to be overtaken by summer heat very quickly.  So spring isn’t one of my favorite seasons.   But, since I have been ‘potting’, my appreciation of this time of year has grown.  I enjoy the longer days...

Let the Shows Begin!

I love making pots but a consequence of prolific work is what to do with it – which is why we began attending craft shows in 2008.  We have been busy in the ‘off-season’ making pots, trying new ideas, and applying for shows.  A Bit Off Center is...

Shooting Freethrows

Basketball players practice free throws a lot – and they still miss.  I think centering is a lot like free throws – at first you miss a lot , then you get into a cycle of improving and relapsing.  Finally, you center effectively most of the time.  I say most of the...

Extras

Confession:  I am not a risk taker.  In pottery, there are a lot of things I can’t control; therefore, I often make multiples to ensure that I get a successful pot.  For example, if I want to make a friend a mug, I often make 2-5 mugs and select the best for...

Rice and Bowls

Fledgling sushi chefs spend months (sometimes years) doing nothing but making the rice for the head chef.  If the rice isn’t right, it really doesn’t matter what else you do, you’re not going to be able to serve great sushi.  Too often, we quickly...