Meredith Reu Pottery

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How It's Made — Crystalline Glaze Ceramics

Crystalline glaze is known for the stunning and intricate crystal formations that develop during this controlled firing process. The formation of crystals depends on various factors, including glaze composition, firing schedule, cooling rate, and even the position of the pottery inside the kiln. As a result, each piece of crystalline pottery is entirely unique.

The crystalline process begins with the creation of a ceramic piece, either hand built or thrown on the potter’s wheel. A pedestal base is fashioned to perfectly fit the bottom of the piece, as this pedestal is necessary to catch the excess glaze which runs off during the glaze firing. The firing reaches about 2220 F˚ and takes approximately 16 hours, with an equal amount of time for the kiln to cool down.

Once the kiln has cooled, the pottery is carefully removed, and the crystal patterns are now visible on the glazed surface. Finally, the piece is separated from its pedestal, and the bottom of the work is meticulously polished using a diamond disc. The crystalline journey requires much precision and patience, but the exquisite results are well worth the effort.

How It's Made — Pit Fire Ceramics

Pit firing is an ancient method of pottery firing, and is used today by potters who want to achieve unique and rustic surface effects. Pit firing methods may vary, but the basic process involves placing pottery into a pit or barrel filled with combustible materials, and allowing the pieces to undergo an oxidizing or reduction atmosphere during the firing. Pit firing is an unpredictable process, and results will vary with each firing. Since pots are fired to a very low temperature, the pieces are not food-safe or water-tight after firing, and instead are used as decorative pieces.

Pieces used for pit fire may be hand-built or wheel-thrown, made from clay suitable to withstand the harsh firing process. The pots are burnished, and then wrapped in materials designed to produce specific coloration or patterns. Experimentation with a variety of materials is the key to achieving dynamic results. Unexpected effects may be produced by using items such as dried anchovies, toothpaste, cat food, banana peels, sunblock, etc. to coat or wrap the pottery. The excitement is contagious when the fired pots have been carefully removed from the cooled ashes, and the fired pieces are finally revealed.