My process for creating carved ceramic pieces begins with throwing a cylinder or bowl on the wheel and then trimming it when it is leather hard. Since the clay is still workable at this point, I either trace over a design that I have previously created on paper or alternatively draw a design freehand onto the white clay body. I use various small wooden and metal carving tools to carve away parts of the clay leaving the design relief raised from the surface of the pot. I use a soft paintbrush to soften the edges of the carving, and then add some small fine details to my work. The piece is bisque fired after it dries completely and a transparent celadon glaze is applied by dipping or painting it on the surface. Finally, the piece has a final glaze fire in the kiln. Carving takes many hours to do but I enjoy being able to manipulate the clay to reveal a soft, flowing and pleasing design. Below are some examples of my carved pieces.

Click on an image for more details.