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 her.  I would never make 1 mug because something would go awry which would require an emergency gift purchase.

So when I make teapots, I make extra lids.  I used to make 2-3 lids per pot.  But I became more efficient and began making 6 lids for 5 teapot bodies with the same diameter.  In the last year, I began limiting myself to 1 lid per teapot (much to Julie’s relief).  However, as a result of my risk-adverse approach, I have quite a stash of lids.  In fact, I have a stash of lids at my studio and another stash at Julie’s studio (buckets-o-shame).

Initially, the cost of a well-fitting lid was a spare lid which seemed like a small price to pay.  But, the extra lids are not a complete waste.  Lids with protruding knobs make great apron hooks.  I also use the bisque lids as models for lid-type or knob ideas for the pots that are in progress.  And, of course, there is always a need for glaze testers!