Behind the Wheel: The Journey of a Handmade Pottery Piece
Every handmade pottery piece has a story—one that begins long before it reaches your table. At Agustinus Budi Pottery, each item is shaped through a thoughtful process, combining skill, patience, and a deep respect for the material. In this post, we invite you to step behind the scenes and discover the journey of a handmade piece from clay to finished form.
1. Choosing the Right Clay
It all starts with the clay. Different types of clay—stoneware, earthenware, or porcelain—offer different qualities. At our studio, we carefully select and prepare clay that suits the character of the piece we’re creating, ensuring both beauty and durability.
2. Making on the Wheel
The forming process begins at the wheel. Centering the clay requires focus and a steady hand. This is where the potter's connection with the material becomes visible—each rotation brings the form to life, whether it's a cup, bowl, or teapot.
3. Drying and Trimming
Once shaped, the piece is left to dry until it reaches a leather-hard stage—firm enough to hold its form, but soft enough to trim and refine. This is where the foot is shaped and excess clay is carefully removed, adding both balance and detail.
4. Bisque Firing
After fully air-drying, the piece goes into the kiln for the first time in a process called bisque firing. This hardens the clay and prepares it for glazing. Each firing is a test of patience and precision—temperature, timing, and even kiln placement can affect the result.
5. Glazing with Intention
Glazing adds both character and protection. Whether it’s a soft matte finish or a rich glossy layer, each glaze is applied by hand—through dipping, pouring, or brushing—bringing texture and color to the surface.
6. Final Firing
In the final firing, magic happens. The glaze melts and bonds with the clay, revealing unpredictable beauty shaped by heat and time. No two firings are exactly the same, which is part of what makes handmade pottery so special.
7. Finishing Touches
After cooling, each piece is checked, cleaned, and—if custom-made—packaged with care. From here, it’s ready to bring warmth and beauty to a new home.
At Agustinus Budi Pottery, we believe that understanding the journey of a piece deepens its value. When you hold a handmade mug or bowl, you’re not just holding a product—you’re holding a story, crafted with heart.
Kontak kami
0813-9391-2584
0813-9391-2584
agustinusbudi.pottery@gmail.com
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