Scraffito (in Italian "to scratch") is a pottery decorating technique produced by applying layers of color or colors (underglazes or colored slips) to leather-hard pottery and then scratching off parts of the layer(s) to create contrasting images, patterns and texture.

Glynnis will discuss applying the slip (ideal times, textures, moisture content, methods of application, thickness etc.), choosing a design and fitting it to the form. She will demonstrate carving and detailing with a brief discussion about glazing and its particular challenges. 

Glynnis learned to throw pots when she was 10 and began working for a potter at 16. She earned her BFA at the U of M and moved to Chicago. In 2012 Glynnis and family moved back to Minnesota, to Northfield where she formed the Cannon River Clay Tour with 9
other potters. Glynnis loves being close to the beauty of nature and the outdoors from which she derives so much inspiration. She regularly sells and displays her work at art fairs, galleries and on studio tours at home and throughout the upper midwest. She will have a short slide show of her work and influences and some of her finished work will be available for viewing or purchase. See examples of Glynnis’ work at her website: www.glynnislessing.com

Participants will need a pot that has dried enough to be able to carve into. White clay is preferable, since it creates more contrast as a background for your design. Come with ideas for your design.