During the Ceramic Memorandum unit with grade 9/10, I worked on several pieces to demonstrate different techniques. One such example was a balloon pinch pot dragon, later named Derek (the Dragon), which I ended up completing. I needed something to demonstrate glazing techniques on as well, and Derek was too cute not to use.

We used Botz liquid glazes to finish our pieces after the bisque fire. I showed different techniques and ways to apply and mix glazes to encourage students to experiment. I used a small round brush to apply dabs of red, white, blue, and gold glaze.

Derek turned out beautifully and I feel with every piece of ceramics I make, I improve as a potter.

Although I have worked with clay in the class room before, and even as far back as in my own high school, I never truly studied different techniques and worked with such attention as I did during the grade 9/10 Ceramic Memorandum unit. I was able to work through higher level techniques with the students and by doing so pushed my own abilities!

I think I’ll go make some more dragons now!