Slip molds

As a non ceramicist, I rarely have a reason to make slip molds. However, sometimes I find myself with an idea that calls for one… and this piece is one that I’m excited enough about to proceed with a straightforward yet occasionally frustrating process.

I am making a small cup, that is a bird head wearing a party hat. It is such a small cup. And there is no good way to put it down until it is empty.

I think my idea here is that maybe it will slow you down, in the best way possible. Force you to focus on the act of drinking this tiny drink. A pause in your day where maybe you need both hands and all your attention.

Because this form is simple, it will be a 2 piece slip mold. Slip molds are made of plaster, because the plaster absorbs the liquid clay that is poured in. The clay becomes thicker as the moisture is soaked into the plaster and the excess is poured out, leaving a hollow form. Don’t worry. It will all make sense eventually. Stay tuned for more on this piece soon.