Since Ceramics opening this year in March, we’ve grown to about 60 members, developed a new process to notify folks of projects moving through kilns, and are dialing in our glaze offering among many other enhancements, adjustments, and improvements. I want to say thank you to all of the volunteers that have helped put this together and have done much work behind the scenes to give ceramists a new creative space in Austin. This would not be close to what it is today if it weren’t for you all putting your creative energy and time into making a community space.
As operating costs increase (rent, utilities, consumable usage), we are constantly evaluating how we can support ceramics while keeping membership costs low . A few updates will take effect this week (October 30th).
-
Clay. This will increase to $24 per bag and $42 per box. We will still be sourcing this from Armadillo Clay.
-
Commercial Glaze. We are finalizing an offering of commercial glazes to keep a consistent stock on-hand. Again, sourced from Armadillo clay.
These will be offered at a self-served 2oz cups for $4 and can be payed for using the same kiosk system as the clay. -
Dip Glazes. We are working towards a sustainable, free option of dip glazes. There will be some variations of house made glazes as well as we are bringing in a consultant to assist in making a few more offerings for us. Our first meeting with him this week was very insightful!
-
Glaze Classes. For the month of November only, these are free and will run once a week! Starting in January, we will be requiring all members take a glaze class in order to fire pieces with glaze on it. This goes for existing members and new members. No matter the experience level, this will ensure we can pass on knowledge for how to properly apply our House Dip Glazes. Additionally, the small class fee will help pay down costs that go into our free dip glazes.
Coming Soon
- New and improved Glaze Station! Thanks to @smartin for his design and Chris Lopez for helping to put the whole thing together. It looks so good on paper and I can’t wait to see it in reality.
- Better Glaze Fire Logging. The fire people ( @SethWhite @PerlaAyora @Chase ) are working very hard to identify potential glaze issues ahead of time. They are invested in ensuring the best possible piece will come out of the kilns. For us to help them, we’ll be adding a glaze type to the kiln-drop off form in the near future.
Once again, thank you all for your support, care, and creativity in this space. We are working hard to keep things sustainable and constantly push the bar.
Robert