Handmade Bend Ceramic Process

The item is first sculpted in clay by Bend artist and co-owner of Handmade Bend, Michael Knapek.

The finished artwork is molded in plaster.
Liquid clay is poured into the plaster molds.  
When the clay reaches the desired thickness, the excess liquid is poured out, creating a hollow form.
The forms are demolded.
The slip cast clay forms are cleaned and handles are attached while the mugs are still moist.  Assembled mugs are left uncovered until they become 'bone dry'.
The dried pieces are placed in the kiln for the initial firing, creating 'bisqueware'.
The bisqueware is coated in glaze and fired again.  
Once the kiln interior achieves approximately 2200 degrees, a durable, glass-like finish is created, completing the art.
From Bend, beginning to the end.

Cast. Created. Fired. Oregon.