New Ikebana Bowls and Succulent Planters

I have ceramic pieces drying all over the studio, they all need to be bisque fired, glazed and fired again before I can get them in my shop.

I have changed my production method slightly, the bowl part is wheel thrown then the top is hand built. It’s easier for me as my wrists prefer throwing to rolling clay.

I made some more of the ever popular ‘Ella’s Doily’ succulent planters which can also be used as as an ikebana bowl. I do love making pieces that have more than one use. It seems to make sense doesn’t it.

Who was Ella? She was a lovely lady who I knew from my childhood and who lived next door to my friend in later life. She must have loved to crochet, she had some lovely doilies and cloths.  I think she would be smiling knowing what they are used for now.I think this new hosta leaf style ikebana bowl come succulent planter is my favourite, each one is unique, as they are all made from different leaves. The leaf only lasts for one imprint just now as they are starting to die back and become fragile. I will have to wait ’til spring to make more. I like the fact my ceramic art is governed by the seasons.

I haven’t tested glazes out on this clay yet,  I’d hate to have these go ‘pear shaped’ in the glazing process so I will have to be patient and test out some glaze colours soon. So now I need to make some ceramic jewellery components in the same clay.

It’s all go!