FLOWER DISH

LESSON PRESENTATION INSTRUCTIONS

FORM

 FLOWER DISH

Lesson Objectives: Students will create a ceramic dish in the shape of a flower. Students are introduced to the technique of clay slab. Form is recognized when 3 dimensions are present (height, width, and depth).

Time Required: 2 sessions

Source: http://www.deepspacesparkle.com/2012/03/25/ceramic-flower-dishes/

Artist: Georgia O’Keeffe, White Trumpet Flower, Yellow Cactus

Materials (Day 1):

            Clay

            Flower templates

            Paper bag or cardboard placemats

            Rolling pins

            Water

            Carving tools and/or plastic knives

            Paper bowls           

Materials (Day 2):

            Glaze

            Paintbrushes

            Dixie cups

Presentation:

Discuss form: includes all 3 dimensions (height, width, and depth). Discuss Georgia O’Keeffe and characteristics of flowers: petals, center, etc. Discuss slab technique.

Procedure, Session 1:

1. Roll clay to a ¼ inch slab large enough to fit the template.
2. Place the template on the slab and cut around it with a plastic knife.
3. Remove template and excess clay.
4. Smooth edges with a wet fingertip.
5. You may add small dots in the flower center with a carving tool.
6. Lay flower upside down over a plastic bowl and mold to bowl.
7. Carve child’s initials or name on the flower dish.
8. Let dry 14 days and bisque fire in the kiln.

Procedure, Session 2:

1. After fired, paint with glaze.
2. Use 2-3 coats for vibrant colors.
3. Don’t paint the bottom of the dishes! Or use stilts to keep glaze from contacting the kiln shelves.
4. Let dry overnight and glaze fire in the kiln.