"When you are finished, you may also add decorations, or ornaments, to your jar."

This sentence, pulled from the context of pottery making, highlights the potential for personalization and creativity in crafting your own ceramic pieces. After the functional form of a jar is complete, the maker has the opportunity to transform it from a simple vessel into a unique piece of art. Let's explore some ways to embellish your pottery jars.

Adding Decorative Elements

Once the basic shape of your jar is formed, there are numerous ways to add decorative touches. These can be applied while the clay is still wet and pliable, or after it has dried but before firing (if you plan to fire your pottery).

Incised Designs

One simple technique is to scratch designs into the surface of the clay using a modeling stick or other pointed tool. A ruler can be used to guide the stick for straight lines, allowing for geometric patterns and borders. More free-form designs can also be etched, creating intricate scenes or abstract art.

Applied Decorations

Additional clay elements can be added to the surface of the jar for a three-dimensional effect. These can include:

• Coils: Small coils of clay can be attached to the jar, creating raised patterns or textures.
• Ornaments: Small, sculpted clay shapes (leaves, flowers, animals, etc.) can be added to the jar for a more elaborate look.
• Handles and Feet: While functional, handles and feet can also be designed to be decorative, adding visual interest to the jar.

To attach these elements, score both the jar surface and the back of the decoration with a tool, apply slip (a mixture of clay and water), and press the pieces firmly together.

Surface Treatments

Even without adding clay elements, you can alter the surface of the jar to create visual interest:

• Texturing: Pressing textured materials (fabric, leaves, bark) into the wet clay can create interesting patterns.
• Burnishing: Polishing the surface of the dry clay with a smooth stone or tool can create a glossy, reflective finish.

Glazing and Finishing

If you plan to fire your pottery, glazing offers another opportunity for decoration. Glazes come in a wide variety of colors and finishes, and can be applied in different ways to create unique effects. Consider layering glazes for depth, or using resists to create patterns.

If you choose not to fire your pottery, you can still waterproof the jar by applying bathtub enamel to the inside (and outside, if desired). This will seal any cracks and prevent leaks, while also adding a protective layer.

Conclusion

Adding decorations to your pottery jar is a way to express your creativity and make a truly unique piece. Whether you choose to incise simple patterns, apply elaborate ornaments, or experiment with glazing techniques, the possibilities are endless. So, after you've formed your jar, take some time to consider how you can transform it into a work of art.