Fulfilling a Dream (another one)

It has been a long time coming but I am finally learning how to throw pottery on a wheel. It has been a dream of mine since I was about 8 years old. I don't know why it has taken me this long but it has. I am learning from Nan Rothwell. Her influence has been in my life since birth. My father knew her and had some bowls she made. As a child my family used those bowls for mixing or salads or whatever. As an adult I now have them and still use them all the time. It amazes me what an impact art can make at such an early age and how it can be a staple of life.

Needless to say I am thrilled to be learning pottery from Nan! Last night was my first attempt at throwing on a wheel. I did great! I made several bowls that I hope make it through the whole process. Next week I have to trim the bottoms. I know I will be taking advantage of practice time in the coming weeks because I have done nothing else today but think of pottery.

Having this raw material in my hands to mold and form is very odd and exciting at the same time. It is not an easy thing but I still have the sense memory of my experience last night. My hands and brain are trying to figure out what just happened to them.

I feel like spinning has prepared me for pottery. I have learned to use both hands for two different things at once. I learned to control the twist that is let into the fibers while drafting and pedaling a wheel. Pottery is completely different but oddly similar to me too.

I hope to have pictures next time. I forgot to take a camera with me last night.

Other News:

My Etsy store is doing well. I am having a good time learning book making. This I am teaching myself. I do have some yarns that are ready to list for sale. I just need to find some time to get them up there.