Campfire Pots

[Tracy Shea]

I've been teaching kids summer camp for the last 5 years. Last year we made barrel fired pots, this year we're working "from the ground up."

Harvesting clay, screening and drying, making pots, and firing in a bon fire. No kiln.

In an attempt to stave off exploded pots and crying children, I've been working to increase my odds of success.

I have found Ohio clay right from the ground to be sandy and somewhat short, but workable nonetheless. It's easy to pinch, and actually throwable. I have been having problems with cracking in the fire, however. I also made some attempt to "glaze" pots with mule team borax, which actually melted.  Then, I decided to wedge some borax into the clay for kicks. I discovered that it improved the plasticity of the clay and I got much, MUCH less cracking in the final result. I decided to add a little salt next and see what happens. The saga continues- it's been fun. I'd better get my act together because camp starts next week. Wish me luck!

[Tracy Shea]

sorry for the way late response, but we did manage to fire 20+ pots at camp with the kids, all thrown on the wheel, with only 1 cracked pot.  No saggar- just very gradual heating. It worked! Also, I wedged in some borax, salt, and silica- not sure if it had an effect, but it did make the clay more plastic and more throwable.  When I have time, I will blog more about it because our results were excellent.

[Dave Silwones]

The most fun I have in the studio is when I'm exploring with a class of kids. I see them learn so quickly, and then cant help but smile when they teach me something. Have a great camp!

[George Lewter]

Sounds like a fantastic way to teach the historic roots of pottery making, and how it must have all got started.

[Christopher Cisper]

Nice work!  Love your attitude.   Keep up the good work.