Deanne Ferguson's Lidded Vine Jar, 63/4 in. (17.1 cm) in height, stoneware, fired in oxidation to cone 10, 2024.

The smooth surface of a clay vessel calls me to adorn it. I hold a fascination with the way a loom creates complex patterns and symmetry possible from simple fiber with the pleasing effect of repetition found in modest quilts, tile designs, and ancient Islamic architecture. I alter these designs using digital software while observing patterns from history. Working with digital patterns makes it possible to observe and alter various color options simultaneously. These complex, hand-painted glaze surfaces trick the viewer into thinking they are machine-made. In a fast-paced society, the handmade object can still be appreciated.

1 Choose a pattern (2×2 repeat above). Determine how many rows are required to wrap around the form seamlessly. 2 Use a pencil and decorating disks to mark vertical lines on the pot. Connect lines using a flexible ruler or freehand.

3 Use a banding wheel to draw horizontal lines. The distance between horizontal and vertical lines is the same distance. 4 Mark each grid into quarters then transferring the pattern to the pot. Go over the pattern lines only with a Sharpie marker.
5 Trace the pattern with a resist that will repel glazes, create a sharp line, and will burn away in the firing. 6 Fill the pattern with glaze using a brush. If excess glaze pools in the wrong location, use a needle tool to scrape it off.

 

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