What is it made of?
All of my work is made of clay. Most of it is stoneware clay. I throw the pieces thick and then carve them. I add color in the form of slips (liquid clay with colorant added), pattern through them, fire, and then inlay glaze after bisque (the first firing). I mostly fire in an electric kiln in my home studio. My pieces are glazed on the interior and are food safe.
I love it! But do you have it another color or size?
Each piece is unique. I throw them in small series on the potters’ wheel, swaddle each one in plastic, and then carve them, one by one. The drawings are freehand, honed in the carving. I generally have a particular challenge I set myself with each small grouping (working with four elements, or more shadow parts, focusing on thinner stems, for example). The pieces end up being cousins, maybe, rather than identical twins.
This is a somewhat long-winded way of saying “if you love a piece, you might want to buy it. I won’t be making that exact form/drawing again”.
Do you take commissions?
Sometimes. It depends on where I am in my making cycle, what other commitments I have. I have had people ask for specific form considerations, like thinner rims, or small or large handles. I’ll incorporate those ideas into my next batch, and let the person know when they’re ready. *This can take a bit of time, as my process is slow, but I’m always interested in a conversation. Feel free to contact me with questions.
Are the pieces microwave and dishwasher safe?
A qualified yes. As with all handmade objects, care must be taken. Small items like bowls or cups are safe in the microwave. To ensure their heirloom quality is maintained, handwashing is suggested.
How do I care for my pieces?
My carved pieces are made to be enjoyed by you and your family for generations with proper care. While it is generally safe to use a microwave or dishwasher, harsh handling will diminish the life of the work. Some dishwashers or detergents can affect the glaze surface with abrasives.
Likewise, a microwave heats up the food and if food isn't evenly distributed over the surface, a hot spot develops on the pottery and that can crack the piece. Best to use only cups or small bowls in the microwave to protect your purchases.
How durable is your pottery?
Stoneware is noted for being very durable but it will not withstand being dropped or knocked about. Flaws created during impact will not always be detectable, and eventually a crack may appear and the cracked piece may break with use.
How do you ship your work?
I carefully wrap pieces with a mix of recycled and new materials. I send small pieces via USPS, and will send you an email with the tracking number of your piece when it ships. Expect it to take 2-3 days from date of order for me to get your piece shipped. Shipping charges are handled through my online shop. If there are any delays, I will contact you. If you need to make other arrangements, please contact me.
Do you offer workshops?
I do. Please contact me to talk about details.
Where can I see your work in person?
The Worcester Center for Crafts in Worcester, MA.
https://www.wccgallerystore.com/
The League of NH Craftsmen’s Littleton Fine Craft Gallery.
https://nhcrafts.org/webstore/brand/sarah/
I live nearby. Can I pickup my work in person?
Yes. Contact me and we’ll set up a date and time for curbside pickup within 5 days of buying the piece.
How will you use my information?
Only to contact you about your purchase, and to give you studio updates. *I promise, these will be infrequent—about four times a year.