I came across these two companies and knew I had to share them.
Finca tall serving bowl, $128 USD, Franca
Alhambra-Marine throw, $160 USD, Happy Habitat
EEEK!!!! I’m so excited to finally share a full view of my new pottery collection!
Over the last few months, I have had the opportunity to work with a local potter, Stephen Hawes, to create a collection of pottery. Our collection is going to be sold at Wilfrid Laurier University’s new shop at the Robert Langen Art Gallery. Pretty amazing, right?
When I was approached with the idea, I was totally on board. But then I thought – ah – could I actually design a collection that people would want, that reflects my design aesthetic, and that highlights the potter’s skills? I was nervous at first, but the process went very smoothly.
I brainstormed and sketched out a bunch of designs. I had sizes and colour options detailed, too. Then Stephen and I met to discuss the feasibility and usefulness of each of the objects I designed. We also talked about colour variation (not too much, since this was going to be a white and black collection!).
Stephen got to work in his workshop, and we met again in the summer to review the prototypes. At that meeting, it was great to see the prototypes so that I could confirm or adjust each item’s design, colour, and size.
Another couple of months went by and then the collection was done. Poof! Stephen had fired everything up and was ready for the final reveal. I know I’m biased, but it’s beautiful. I like to think that this pottery collection is modern, easy, accessible, and versatile.
So…are you ready to have a look at some of the collection? Here we go…
White Cabana X Stephen Hawes
use it for: hair ties, cotton balls, salt, mini cactus
use it for: drinking cup, pencils, straws, cheese sticks, Qtips 
use it for: fruit, salad, remote controls
use it for: (L) pasta, salad, bread, rock garden; (R) candy bowl, popcorn   
use it for: utensils, toothbrushes, straws
use it for: popcorn, plant, mail
use it for: milk, syrup, salad dressing
use it for: (L) green tea, iced tea, water, wooden spoons; (R) spoons, sugar, soy sauce
use it for: Lego, chips, scarves
There are a variety of shapes and sizes in this collection, and the black lines of each object also vary. Each piece is unique and made with care.
The complete collection will be for sale at the Robert Langen Art Gallery in the library at Wilfrid Laurier University beginning on Monday, December 5th at 11am. More details here.
Thanks to Stephen Hawes for working on this project with me.
Thanks to Nick, Suzanne, and the Laurier Library for encouraging this initiative.
In one of my various online surfing adventures, I came across Spartan Shop and fell in love with just about every product in its inventory. One more beautiful than the next. Let’s just say I lingered a little while on the site.
Look at these beauties:
Gabriela Artigas two-tone infinite cuff, $270
Scosha brass double opal cuff, $225
takara jade coron necklace, $275
spotted door mat, $80
clam lab pointed spout pitcher, $290
marble spice grinder with brass ball, $150
Recently, I was invited back to Inspirations Studio in Toronto to take part in a pottery class with a group of my blogging colleagues (hi Renée, Brittany, Shannon, Amy). It was so fun! You may remember that last year, I designed a collection of pottery that was sold at BlogPodium. This time, though, it was my turn to get behind the wheel. Oh my goodness. I made a mess! And it was fun!
The afternoon began with a pro-potter giving us step-by-step instructions on how to throw the clay and form it into a small bowl using the wheel.
In just a few minutes, she made this perfectly formed bowl:
I made several attempts, but couldn’t quite get a symmetrical bowl. A little wonky bowl is a conversational piece, though, right? We also had the chance to roll out the clay and use different materials to imprint patterns on our pieces. I made a tray and rolled a piece of lace over it to create some texture.
Our pieces should be ready soon, and I’ll be sure to show you how they look post-firing. For now, here are a couple more photos from around the studio.
If you’re in Toronto and would like to have your own pottery experience, you might want to register for classes at Inspirations Studio.
Thanks to Lindsey T. and the team at Inspirations Studio for organizing a wonderful afternoon of pottery!
Etsy is currently celebrating Quebec design with The Etsy Design Awards: The Best of Quebec. Etsy artisans are so incredibly talented, and I’m happy to share some of my favourite pieces from Quebec designers.
feather ring – Annie Lesperance, sterling silver, $32.28
scribble dress for babies and kids – Double Yellow Line, $60
white handmade bowl – Looks Like White, $22
handmade bead embroidered bracelet – Antonietta Presti, $125
I also think this pink birdhouse is sweet, this abracadabra patch is cute, these earrings are great for summer, and this lobster print makes me laugh.
If you’re interested in supporting Canadian designers and Etsy owners, check out the finalists and cast your votes!