Shaw Woods Mugs

Spent a large part of last week decorating some mugs for the Shaw Woods. They are having an open day next Sunday, Oct. 6, with guided hikes, workshops, information and some fund-raising items. And some of those will be my mugs!

I worked hard at painting them, holding my (metaphorical) breath on the subject of DOTS.

My pots look so nice when they are painted and before they are fired! I almost don't want to fire them. Of course they look soft and 'dusty' and pale.... but full of hope.

Happily, sometimes they come out of the firing still looking good!

And no dots, whew.

P.S. You can get more info about the Shaw Woods, and register for one of the public hikes, at their website. If you are in the area (Ottawa), come out and enjoy a great day in a special place. And maybe you'll see my mugs there!

Safety First

For those just thinking of setting up a pottery studio, or for anyone whose workplace could use a safety tune-up, I've put together a short list of aids to safety that you don't want to be without.

One of the biggest worries is, of course, fire. Make sure you have a good fire extinguisher:

Sometimes the power will go off, leaving you all alone is a pitch-black studio filled with tables, wheels, wet clay, sleeping dogs to trip over.... An emergency lighting system is a must.

Of course, if you can afford it, an auxiliary power supply is even better.

Industrial accidents are another big concern. As they say, accidents do happen. Make sure you are prepared.

And if all else fails, make sure you have what you need to call for help.

With a little foresight, you ought to be able to enjoy years of happy potting without disaster. All it takes is a little advance planning.