Let’s make one together
Hey everyone! So, as the original post hints, I’m kicking off 2025 with some exciting new creative endeavors, and my latest obsession is making unique pottery pieces. I’m absolutely thrilled to share my journey creating this clay book vase! It’s such a fun way to combine my love for reading and nature, and I think it adds such a charming, personal touch to any room. I know a lot of you might be wondering, 'How do you even begin to make a clay book vase by hand?' Well, it’s more approachable than you might think, even for beginners! My process usually starts with choosing the right type of clay – for this project, I went with a simple earthenware clay that’s great for hand-building. You’ll also need some basic pottery tools like a cutting wire, a rolling pin for slabs, and shaping tools. First, I rolled out a flat slab of clay, thick enough to be sturdy but not so thick it’s unwieldy. Then, I cut out the basic shapes for the 'book covers' and the 'spine.' This is where you can really get creative with the dimensions to make your book vase look realistic or wonderfully whimsical. I scored and slipped the edges to join them, carefully molding the clay to resemble a closed book, making sure the 'pages' had a subtle texture. The most critical part is creating the opening for your flowers or plants. I carefully cut a rectangular or oval shape into the 'top' of the book. Remember to smooth all the edges to prevent cracking during drying and firing. Some people even add small 'pages' texture along the opening for extra detail. If you're inspired by clay wall art, you could even think about incorporating some relief details onto the 'cover' of your book vase! After shaping, it's all about slow drying to prevent warping, followed by bisque firing (if you have access to a kiln). If not, consider air-dry clay for a simpler, no-kiln required project! Finally, the fun part: glazing or painting. I opted for a natural, earthy tone, but you could go wild with vibrant colors, or even paint a 'title' on your book vase. This project truly allows for so much personalization. It's not just a vase; it's a conversation starter, a piece of art, and a testament to the joy of making things with your own hands. If you're looking for unique home decor or a thoughtful handmade gift, trying to make your own clay book vase is definitely something I recommend. It’s incredibly rewarding to see your vision come to life in clay!





























































