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The prices of my reduction-fired mugs and cups reflect far more than the time it takes to throw each piece. Once a piece is made, it first goes through a bisque firing to 950°C. After that, the glazing process begins and it this stage alone that takes considerable time due to the way I apply my glazes.

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My glazes are highly reactive in a gas reduction kiln, and the textures and tones you see are the result of both the firing atmosphere and my glazing method. I have to keep the glaze at a very specific density (water content); as I work and the water content changes, I continually adjust it to ensure the final results are as intended. Each piece is first dipped, then hand-painted to build up layers of glaze. These layers create the subtle tones, depth, and textures that make each mug unique.

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The firing itself is a long process. I use a 10 - 12 hour heavy reduction atmosphere which is essentially starving the kiln of oxygen while increasing the gas supply. This encourages the kiln to pull oxygen from the clay body and glazes, producing rich variations in colour and surface. Because I fire in this way, I use more gas than a standard firing, but it’s essential for achieving the results I’m after.

 

Not every piece makes it to the shop. Some simply don’t develop the colours or textures I’m looking for, so what you see available are the pieces I’m truly happy with. I also try to show a range of my Shino glazes, from white  through rusty oranges to deep browns. I also have a Bracken glaze, which can produce anything from light sage to deep green tones and warm oranges. These effects rely entirely on precise glaze density and a strong reduction firing.

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I hope this helps explain a little more about my process and why my prices reflect the care, time, and materials involved. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me.