As many of us come into gift-giving season, I want you to consider giving the gift of a hobby --- specifically pottery. Is it a good idea?
If you ask potters, they'll of course give a resounding "Yes!" But the truth is, clay is not a hobby for everyone. People either love clay, or hate it. Which means, don't go overboard when considering giving a gift of pottery as a hobby.
For children, I would avoid those "pottery wheel" kits unless you are ready to work with them in using it as a tool with hand building techniques, not throwing. (To this day I vividly remember the frustrations when, as a child, I was given one.)
Instead, give a few pounds of air-dry or oven-cured clay, along with some inexpensive modeling tools. Guide your youngster in using pinch, coiling, and slab techniques. That way, they'll be much more likely to avoid frustrations, while making something they will be proud of.
For teens and adults, consider the person's outlook on dirt and mess. People who avoid mess at all costs are most likely not going to enjoy pottery as a hobby. On the other hand, a lot of people with highly organized and demanding jobs come to greatly enjoy the freedom to "play in the mud."
Hint: People who value having long, manicured fingernails will probably find clay anathema.
Tomorrow...Why pottery is a good hobby to give.
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