Leaf Sprigs

These are four rounds, approx 16 mm (I'm guessing, I haven't measured them yet), with a simple leaf sprig design.  One of these beads has a 'bead cap', which has been textured for interest.

The clay is a iron speckled stoneware from Texas Pottery in Bluemound, Texas (www.texaspottery.com).

Alan and Debra Bray sold this company a few months ago and the new owners are also kind and helpful.  I have long been a fan of Texas Pottery's clay, so go in and say howdy if you are a potter and haven't been there lately.

Alan and Debra were extremely helpful to me when I first got into pottery. Debra practically held my hand as she urged me to apply for a business license so I wouldn't have to pay tax for supplies.  Alan fixed my little kiln on more than one occasion and refused to take the money I offered.  One time there was about 100 lbs of hard clay that he offered me for absolutely free (I took it and watered it down and it was perfect).  I have great memories of the two of them and am always thankful for their cheerfulness and willingness.  When I first decided to fire beads, it was Alan who showed me how I could balance the rods on the kiln stilts.  I, and all my bead customers, are especially grateful for that!