Over 20 years ago, John Fulwood started offering pottery classes in Frenchtown, NJ. He eventually moved the studio to the Stangl Factory building in Flemington, where he built an incredible community of potters and friends. Many of his students have been a part of the studio for over 10 years and some have been with him from the start!As many of you know, John is retiring at the end of the spring session, former student Kimberly Hardiman Winnicky will be continuing the studio as … [Read more...]
Pottery Glazing Techniques to Know
There are many different elements that make up the art of pottery, and one of the most important is the glazing process.Before you glaze:There are a few things you must do to prepare for your glazing.1. Ensure all dust is removed from your freshly fired pottery items. A clean sponge or dampened cloth should do the trick.2. Mix your glazes well so there is no risk of separation between the various sediments.3. Test your glazes on test-ceramic tiles made out of the … [Read more...]
A Brief History of Pottery Making
The art of pottery making dates all the way back to the Neolithic revolution. Hunters and gatherers were becoming settlers and farmers, and planted crops and domesticated animals were becoming the norm. However, there was a need for a tool that could transport water easily to the fields. Being cheap and overly abundant in the area, farmers turned to clay. Placing clay rings on top of one another, the earliest known pots were formed and fired in the ground. These were … [Read more...]
Pottery for Beginners: A Guide to Pottery Making
Pottery making is one of the most thoughtful and transforming experiences an artist can have, helping you to connect your mind with your body and explore your creativity freely.New to pottery?Here are a few things to know before diving in to your first pottery class!What is a pottery wheel?There are many pottery making techniques that you could explore, but a pottery wheel is the best way to learn and experiment with this art form, especially if you’re just starting … [Read more...]
The Mindfulness of Pottery Making
In recent years, people have gravitated toward pottery making as an art form beyond simple pleasure. The activity, which was once thought of as a simple hobby, has turned into a mind and body transforming experience for both young creatives and experienced ceramicists, who find relief in cradling clay on the pottery wheel and watching as it takes form. Through pottery, people can express their creativeness and individuality while practicing mindfulness techniques. Here is how making pottery is … [Read more...]
Quiet Day
It is unusually quiet here today. Just a few of the Saturday regulars here for open studio time. Smokey is here of course, looking for treats and pets from his friends.The Spring session starts next week and I am looking forward to meeting the new students and better weather. There is still space in a few of the classes so, if you have always wanted to try pottery making or have been wanting to get back into it, sign up online and come get your hands dirty. … [Read more...]