You Can Help!

My mother used to write a weekly column for The Washington Post in the mid-1960’s titled ‘You Can Help.’ Each column featured a story about a different charity in need of volunteers and donations. Listening to all the news about the natural disaster affecting Texas while I have been working in the studio has me thinking about what I can do to help.

First, I plan to donate some money to the Red Cross. Maybe you’ll consider making a direct donation to them or another charity to help the thousands of people affected by the relentless storm. Second, I’ll donate an extra $20 for each 'heartfelt' piece you purchase from me this week as an additional donation to the Red Cross. This popular shape was created to hold small notes of love, forgiveness, and hope. Buy one for yourself or share one with a friend. Together, we can contribute some love where it's needed right now. Click on this photo to shop!

The kiln has been running non-stop in the studio in preparation for upcoming fall shows, custom orders, and replenishing my inventory. I've been experimenting with some new clay shapes and color combinations for the fall. Here's another place I could use your help and feedback. Click on each photo to tell me if you like or don't like what you see.

New Rectangle Baker with Teal/Autumn Leaf glaze combination. Click on photo to comment.

Large pie dish with Turquoise/Bluebell combination. Click on photo to comment.

New Oval Baker with Yellow/Aquamarine combination. Click on photo to comment.

Yellow/Autumn Leaf combination. Click on photo to comment. 

Thank you for your help!

Hold The Pickles, Hold The Lettuce . . .

How many of you know the next line to this 1970’s Burger King commercial? It’s been one of those weeks in the studio where I’ve been finishing and starting some special orders. These collaborative efforts between me and my customer occur on a regular basis. Creating a piece ‘your way’ often starts with the question, “could you make…?”

It can be as simple as making something from my inventory in a different color glaze. I was asked to create this medium sized baking dish in my red/white glaze combination. Done!

Some times, I’m asked to revive a shape I’ve made in the past. I forgot how much I enjoy making these sea turtle photo/recipe holders. They were a regular item in my inventory when we lived in Hilton Head,  South Carolina. These have been requested as a give-away at an upcoming fall wedding.

Other times, I’m asked to create a totally new item. This chalice and paten set are in progress for a nearby church. The design has progressed successfully with creative input from the customers.  

If you'd like a turn at some creative fun, I'll be teaching another craft party through The Muse in July. I provide all the materials you need to make a colorful potsticker for your garden or indoor plant. Check out the details and sign up here.

It’s fun to go in the studio and create a custom piece. It’s one of the ways I am able to enhance my imaginative juices, tweak a design to fit a custom request and gain satisfaction from the clay art I produce. Do you have a special request you'd like me to create? Click here to let me know!

Have you joined the ClayByLaura Club yet? Don't miss out! If you're a member, look for a special discount for on-line purchases made in the month of July! It's easy to sign up.  Click on photo above. Then, check your email to complete the registration! You're in.

If you're of a certain age (like me), it’s stuck in your head now, isn’t it?!  Hold the pickle, hold the lettuce, special orders don’t upset us….