Construction and Use of a Trash Can Kiln

The proposed presentation will show that constructing a kiln from a trash can and other widely available parts and materials is accessible and can be done at low cost with basic tools and skills. The presentation will also show and demonstrate firing techniques that can easily be completed in the aforementioned kiln.

The ultimate objective is that attendees will walk away with vision and motivation that they can build a low- cost kiln that will allow them to explore alternative firing techniques.

How I Turned a Simple Clay Character (Nuggets) into a Joyful, Sell-Out Art Practice Using Simplicity and Personality

How do you turn a simple clay idea into work people emotionally connect with—and can’t wait to collect?

In this presentation, ceramic artist Deborah Ouzts shares the development of Nuggets, a series of playful clay sculptures that grew from a single spontaneous moment into a recognizable, sell-out body of work. Through storytelling, process insight, and a live demonstration, Deb explores how simplicity, personality, and intentional visual storytelling can transform small ceramic forms into meaningful, collectible art.

This session will walk through the creative evolution of the Nuggets, from early experimentation to building a cohesive visual identity and sharing work in a way that resonates with audiences. Attendees will gain insight into how character can be developed through simple design choices, how consistency can strengthen an art practice, and how storytelling can deepen connection with collectors.

A live and interactive demonstration will show the creation of a Nugget, highlighting how approachable and adaptable this process can be for any ceramic practice. 

This presentation is ideal for ceramic artists who want to develop their creative voice, build connection with their audience, and create work that is both sustainable and joy-driven.

I think all I will need for it will be a way to show a slideshow and a bag of Dover White clay.  I will bring examples and I want to have everyone make a Nugget that they can leave and then I will glaze for donation.  I will bring a stamp for everyone to keep.  

Presentation Description-

The jiggering and jollying process was the answer I arrived at when trying to solve a studio problem:  how to reproduce vessels efficiently in order to focus on surface research and application. My problem was that I didn’t have the room for a slip casting set up and could not throw multiple vessels on the wheel because of physical limitations. These restrictions led me to adopt the historically commercial process of jiggering and jollying. With the adoption of this process, I also had to adopt a design mindset. I created a prototype and implemented a mold making system as well as designed and cut unified profiles for cutting molds and making vessels. This system, when used with the jigger arm, allowed me to make custom molds that attached to my wheel head. These molds were then used to reproduce pottery forms. 

There are not a lot of resources available for potters who are interested in bringing the jigger/jolly process into their studio practice.  My intention with this presentation is to share my knowledge with other makers so that they be more informed about the jigger jolly process and can utilize it in their own practice to extend their abilities and time in the studio.

Applying stencils to curved surfaces

I would like to show how/talk about how I make my patterns and apply them to the clay.  Tips, techniques, and tricks to applying a flat plastic stencil to curved surfaces.

Affordable Atmospheric Firing: Converting an Electric Kiln to Cone 6 Soda

Atmospheric firing often feels out of reach for potters working in home studios due to the cost and space requirements of traditional gas kilns. In this presentation, Ryan Durbin from RD Ceramics and co-host of Wheel Talk Podcast will share how he converted a discarded top-loading electric kiln into a propane-fired cone 6 soda kiln capable of producing rich flashing, varied surfaces, and atmospheric effects in a home studio setting.

The presentation will walk attendees through the design and construction process, including modifications to the kiln body, burner placement, chimney design, insulation considerations, and safety practices. Ryan will discuss how the original soft brick kiln body was preserved and reinforced with a high-alumina castable interior to withstand repeated soda firings. Drawing from more than 20 successful firings, he will share lessons learned
throughout the build and firing process, along with practical recommendations for potters considering a similar project.

In addition to the construction process, attendees will see examples of finished work fired in the kiln and learn about soda introduction techniques, firing schedules, surface development, and how cone 6 soda firing differs from higher-temperature atmospheric firings. The presentation will include both successes and failures, offering attendees a realistic understanding of what to expect when building and operating a small soda kiln.

This presentation is intended for ceramic artists interested in atmospheric firing who are looking for a more approachable and affordable path to building their own soda kiln.

Weaving Colored Clay

Sarah will demonstrate her techniques for building woven coil structures to create functional clay pieces. Learn how Sarah colors her clay, lays out her architecturally inspired patterns, builds them through weaving coils, and combines them with solid forms to create delicate but strong pieces.

Throwing Closed Forms on a Pottery Wheel

In this presentation I will focus on throwing closed forms on the pottery wheel.  I will demonstrate techniques to throw various forms including spheres, doughnuts, angular and faceted forms and double walled forms.  I will discuss and show a number of potential projects or ways in which this technique could be used in one’s daily ceramic practice.