What should I glaze today?

I totally get that feeling of a creative slump, especially when you have a big release coming up! When I'm staring at a shelf full of bisque-ware like your beautiful pieces – those 'Tooth Mugs,' 'Decanter "flame flute"' and 'Wall pockets' – and drawing a blank, I have a few go-to strategies that always spark some inspiration. First, I often start by thinking about the function of the piece. For something like your 'Tooth Mugs' or 'Gaudy mugs,' a really inviting, food-safe interior glaze is key. I love using a simple, creamy white or a contrasting color inside to make beverages pop. For the exterior, you can get more playful! Maybe a speckled glaze for a rustic feel, or a vibrant, glossy color that really makes those 'teeth' details stand out. I've had success layering a matte glaze over a glossy one on certain areas to add visual interest without being too overwhelming. For your more sculptural pieces like the 'Decanter "flame flute"' or 'Cherub "flame flute"', I often lean towards glazes that enhance the form. Transparent or semi-transparent glazes can really highlight the texture and curves of the clay. Or, if you want a dramatic effect, a rich, deep solid color or even an iridescent glaze could be stunning. I recently tried a multi-layered approach on a similar piece, using an earthy base and then a subtle metallic overglaze, and the depth it created was incredible. When it comes to 'Wall pockets' and 'Mini plaques,' these are fantastic canvases for experimentation. Since they're often decorative, you can really go wild with colors and textures. I often use underglazes to create detailed designs before applying a clear or satin top glaze. Or, for a bolder look, a heavily textured glaze or even a crystalline glaze can transform them into statement pieces. Don't forget about adding little accents – sometimes even a simple dipped rim or a brushed-on detail can elevate a piece. One trick I've learned is to always, always make test tiles. Before committing a glaze to any of my precious 'WIP' pieces, especially for a drop, I'll apply it to a small tile of the same clay body. This helps me see how the color will truly develop in the kiln and how it interacts with the clay, saving me from any glazing disasters. Also, don't be afraid to mix and match! Some of my favorite results have come from combining two glazes I wouldn't have initially thought would work together. It's all about playing and seeing what magic happens. It’s tough when motivation is low, but getting those pieces glazed and out there is such a rewarding feeling. I hope these ideas help you find your glazing spark!