Rebuild Update #3 10/19/21

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            In the last couple of weeks we have pressurized our water system, and I have mixed my first batch of clay since the fire. A motorhome will be arriving in a week or so. Once we have moved in, we will make faster progress toward the first batch of new pottery, building the new studio, then full pottery output.

            Our well is 400 feet deep, and our well pump fills the water tank at a rate of 400 gallons/hour. The fire took out our 2500 gallon water tank and all of the above ground plumbing. Our water pressure is achieved by this tank installed on the hillside above our structures, for a 45 foot vertical drop. I picked up five used 275 gallon IBC water totes for $24.00 each, and I fit the best three on the elevated water tank pad. We will find uses later for the other two tanks.

            The clay I throw for most of my pottery is a fine, vitreous stoneware, almost porcelain. My recipe has evolved continuously since I acquired my Soldner brand, studio model clay mixer in 1998, with a 150 pound capacity. I blend three Kaolins, one ball clay, two feldspars, and a fine refractory grog (the only non-porcelain ingredient). The Soldner Mixer was invented by Paul Soldner, the father of the North American Raku firing tradition. 

             Also, we happened to arrive at the property before dawn one morning last week, and took a photo study of the lovely sunrise.