We’re back with another Pottery Pointers from WAC! Ribs aren’t just for smoothing—they’re one of the most versatile tools for changing the texture and finish of your pieces. • Smooth and compress. A metal rib evens out walls, removes excess slip, and strengthens the form. • Shape with control. Flexible ribs (metal or rubber) refine curves and help define clean lines. • Play with texture. Wooden ribs, serrated ribs, or textured ribs can add grooves, ridges, or patterns for extra character. • Experiment inside and out. Ribs aren’t only for exteriors. You can use them inside bowls and mugs to refine or create tactile surprise. From glassy-smooth finishes to rustic grooves, ribs let you decide how your pot feels in the hand.

We’re back with another Pottery Pointers from WAC! Handles are often one of the trickiest parts of mug-making, but with a few simple steps you can set yourself up for success: • Match clay and moisture. Make sure the handle and mug are the same clay body and at a leather-hard stage. • Score, slip, attach, blend. Cross-hatch both surfaces, apply slip generously, press firmly, and smooth the join. • Dry slowly. Rest mugs upside down so gravity supports the curve and cover them to prevent cracks. Handle secured, no cracks in sight, and your mug is ready for the kiln!

Today we honor Indigenous Peoples’ Day, recognizing the rich cultures, creativity, and enduring presence of Indigenous communities whose art and stories continue to inspire us.

We have something to celebrate: all of our kilns are at our new location! As you can see in the photo, until our new shed is up, the kilns are vulnerable to the weather. The computers that operate them must be kept dry. The latest information we have is that the shed installation is expected to happen within two to four weeks. We’re doing all we can to keep them dry as we wait. Last Saturday, a group of volunteers started painting the walls. We’re so grateful for their sacrifice of a beautiful Saturday to work inside and help us get closer to opening. As I’ve mentioned in the past, painting the walls is a crucial task. Once the walls are painted and the base is in, we can bring in the shelving and attach it to the walls. Meanwhile, this week, the light bulb replacement project has begun. We can see a difference in the brightness and the color of the light. Our community of artists will appreciate creating in better light. The project is also a significant step toward a more sustainable and energy-efficient operation. This is especially important now that we are responsible for our utility costs. We’ve scheduled a second work party for Oct. 11. Here are the details: What: Painting/work party When: Saturday, Oct. 11, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (drop-in style) Where: Willamette Art Center, 3995 Fairview Industrial Dr. SE, Suite 100, Salem OR 97302 If you can’t attend the work party but would like to help, please let us know, and we can arrange an alternative.