Hello Pottery People! What a wonderful community. I am in Upstate New York, United States. I have always loved the pottery community and this forum that Suza built for us just proves why. I did some pottery as a kid but stopped when I went to college. I have either studied or worked in a “practical” technical field since, burying my artistic side. After hitting my mid-life unraveling, I took a pottery class in 2019 and have been hooked since. I joined my local Pottery Guild (Collar City Clay Guild) and have learned from that community as well. I’m thankful to be part of this network and looking forward to connecting. Happy potting!

Before bells, buzzers, or raised voices, some British taverns relied on a quieter kind of signal. Whistling mugs—ordinary drinking vessels fitted with a small whistle—allowed patrons to call for another round with a puff of breath rather than a shout. Used mainly in the 18th and 19th centuries, these mugs blended utility, humor, and civility. One sip for refreshment, one whistle for service—proof that even in a crowded pub, good design could keep the peace. These modern whistling mugs tip their rims to that tradition: when the mug speaks, it does so politely.

Hey Thanks! (for letting a dinosaur into the group 😉) I do my share of traditional pottery, but my specialty is making ceramic musical instruments, mostly flutes, ocarinas, udus, and drums. I look forward to interacting with the group.

How I make my Garlic/Ginger grater bowls❤️ https://youtu.be/-3DD-MC5ESc?si=hyGIls90XbvCMuxV

In less than two days, the new year will begin — and with it a new month and a new challenge.✨ For January, inspired by Gwen’s suggestion, we invite you to create your own oil lamp or incense burner. How it looks is completely up to you — the only requirement is that it works.🪔 For an oil lamp, you’ll need a container, a wick, and olive oil so the wick can draw the oil and produce a flame. Alternatively, you can create an incense burner, where a flame is placed underneath a small bowl or surface. The design can be very simple or more complex — that’s entirely your choice. Feel free to let your creativity run wild. This challenge is about ideas, experimentation, and making something functional, not perfection.🙌 Have fun with it, and feel free to share your progress, thoughts, and ideas along the way. We hope many of you will join in and take part. Enjoy the process and have fun! 🔥✨