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Testing if it works

Our ancestors, and we don't need to go back too far, acquired knowledge that was passed down from generation to generation. One of them was making their own soaps, whether for personal hygiene or to wash clothes, kitchen utensils, etc.

Why has this practice been lost?

The main reason for this serious loss is the wide availability of commercial soaps, and the affordable price, but as often happens, there are contraindications, and in this case the problem lies in the amount of chemicals they contain (sulfates, dyes, parabens).

Another aspect to highlight is the change in lifestyle, this leaves us with a reduced time in the day to be able to do our projects, it is obviously infinitely more convenient to end up buying these items when you do your shopping in any supermarket.

If we add to the previous point the little knowledge we have or in some cases the little desire to learn, the perfect cocktail is created to lose this ancestral knowledge so important both for us and for the environment.

But there is still hope as handmade soap making has seen a resurgence in recent years due to the growing interest in natural, sustainable products that help us lead healthier lives. In addition to the satisfaction and gratification that comes from being able to shower with your own soap, there is the grain of sand that we contribute to the sustainability of the planet and thus avoid seeing even more chemicals in it.

What types of soaps can we create?

In this article we are going to focus on 3 of them, caustic soda, glycerin, and ash.

Caustic soda soap

Like most people, you are probably wondering if sodium hydroxide, also known as caustic soda, is really a harmful chemical for us and the environment. The short answer is no, as long as we have carried out the saponification process correctly.

When we use caustic soda in soap making, a chemical reaction called saponification takes place, which converts oils or fats into soap. During this process, the caustic soda is completely consumed, and is not present in the final product.

Within this category, there are dozens of oils or fats that can be used to make your creations. It should be noted that the more solid your fat is, the more solid your soap will be. Generally, fats that solidify at room temperature such as coconut oil, palm oil or lard, except for our famous and much loved olive oil, with which we can obtain hard soaps as long as they are well cured.

Olive oil: It has moisturizing and emollient properties, which are beneficial for people with dry skin. It is also rich in essential nutrients and antioxidants such as vitamin E and polyphenols. It will also help soothe your skin, so it is also recommended for people with irritable skin.
- Hydration and Softness: Olive oil is known for its moisturizing and emollient properties. When used as a base in your soap, it helps keep your skin moisturized, soft, and supple. It is especially beneficial for people with dry or sensitive skin.
- Nutrition and Antioxidants: Olive oil is rich in essential nutrients and antioxidants, such as vitamin E and polyphenols. These components help nourish the skin, protect it against free radical damage, and promote a healthy appearance.
- Soothing and anti-inflammatory: Olive oil has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for irritated, itchy, or inflammation-prone skin. It can help soothe irritation and reduce inflammation in conditions like eczema or dermatitis.
- Suitable for sensitive skin: Olive oil is gentle and does not usually cause irritation in most people, making it a good choice for sensitive or reactive skin. It helps to gently cleanse the skin without stripping away protective natural oils.
- Gentle and long-lasting foam: Olive oil produces a soft and creamy foam in the soap, providing a pleasant washing experience. The foam is long-lasting and does not dissipate quickly, making washing and rinsing easier.

Coconut oil: This is a widely used option for soaps that aim to remove dirt, excess oil and impurities from the skin. As it contains lauric acid, it has antimicrobial and antifungal properties. It also has a conditioning effect, leaving hair soft and shiny. It also stands out for its oxidative stability, and for us this means that your creations will last longer without going rancid.

Solid fats are those that are generally solid at room temperature, such as coconut oil, palm oil, or animal fats like lard and tallow.

Creating your own handmade soaps can be a rewarding and creative process. Here are some basic steps to get you started:

Research and gain knowledge: Before you begin, do some research on the different methods and techniques of making handmade soaps. Learn about ingredients, proportions, tools needed, and safety precautions.
Gather your materials: Once you have a clear idea of the ingredients and tools you need, gather them. This can include oils (such as olive oil, coconut oil, almond oil, etc.), lye, distilled water, colorants, fragrances, soap molds, thermometer, whisk, stainless steel spoon, etc.
Learn to calculate proportions: To make soap, you'll need to calculate the proper proportions of oils and lye. Use a saponification calculator or a reliable formula to determine the exact amounts you'll need.
Prepare your work area: Choose a clean, well-ventilated space to create your soaps. Protect the surface with wax paper or a plastic sheet to make cleanup easier later.
Take safety precautions: Soap making involves the use of caustic soda, which is a corrosive chemical. Make sure to wear gloves, safety glasses, and protective clothing to avoid contact with the caustic soda. Work in a well-ventilated area and avoid breathing the fumes.
Follow the step-by-step instructions: Carefully follow the instructions for making handmade soap using the technique you have chosen. This may include heating and mixing the oils, dissolving the lye in water, combining the two mixtures, and adding colorants and fragrances.
Pour the mixture into molds: Once you have mixed all of the ingredients, pour the mixture into soap molds. You can use plastic molds, silicone molds, or even improvised molds like cut-up milk cartons.
Let the soap cure: After pouring the mixture into the molds, let the soap cure for about 4 to 6 weeks. During this time, the saponification process will be completed and the soap will harden and mature.

Remember that soap making is a chemical process, so it is important to follow the instructions and take safety precautions. Also, keep in mind that caustic soda is a dangerous chemical and should be handled with care. Always read the safety instructions and follow the appropriate recommendations.

Our ancestors, and we don’t need to go back too far, acquired knowledge that was passed down from generation to generation. One of them was making their own soaps, whether for personal hygiene, or to wash clothes, kitchen utensils, etc. Why has this practice been lost? The main reason for this serious loss […]

Today we will travel to the largest archipelago in the world, made up of an astonishing number of more than 17,000 islands. Indonesian artisans stand out for their philosophy of passing on their skills and craftsmanship from generation to generation. For this reason, there is a very varied craft, where we will find a good number of techniques and materials. We will now look at some of them in detail.

1. Batik

Although it is used by other Asian and African cultures around the world, it was in Indonesia where this artisanal dyeing technique was declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2009 by UNESCO.

First, consider applying layers of warm beeswax to the areas of the fabric you want to protect from the dye. This natural barrier will prevent the dye from penetrating, creating a colorfast design. After applying the wax, the fabric is dipped in liquid dyes, usually natural, which adhere to the areas not covered in wax.

The craftsman then creates his ideas, which are usually designs with patterns of complex shapes and lines and are especially colorful. One of the most important characteristics is the harmony that they achieve with a mixture of colors. Among the most commonly used are yellow, blue, brown and red. Colorful fabrics are mainly used to make accessories, clothing and decorative items.

2. Wood carving

The most commonly used local woods are teak, ebony, merbau and sandalwood. However, the material used will depend on the piece being created. With this technique, artisans create ornamental pieces for temples, furniture, daily utensils, among others.

With such a large number of islands, there is a rich diversity in different places. For example, in the Minangkabau region, craftsmen create wooden roofs called "rumah gadang".

3. Basketry

To carry out this cultural tradition, artisans use natural materials such as palm leaves, bamboo, rattan and plant fibers. Due to its durability and availability, bamboo is mostly used to create baskets, plates, trays and decorative objects. For this reason, these creations are especially useful when it comes to transporting and storing food.

This technique is also used to create bags, hats and other fashion and home accessories. In short, it is an essential and very useful discipline that reflects the skill and creativity of local artisans, and their knowledge of nature and its materials.

4. Silverware and stone sculptures

Finally, Indonesia also has a good reputation for its history and tradition of creating decorative objects and jewelry made of silver and other precious metals. The city of Yogyakarta, located on the island of Java, is known for its large number of workshops and craftsmen specialized in the creation of jewelry.

In addition to silver, Indonesian artisans also work with other precious metals, such as gold and bronze. The use of precious and semi-precious stones, such as opal, amethyst and coral, enhance their pieces by adding a unique touch of color.

We did not want to end the article without mentioning the strong connection that exists between stone craftsmanship and the culture and religion of the country. The archipelago is full of temples where you can find countless sculptures of all imaginable sizes. The village of Batubulan in Bali is famous for its workshops and artists specialized in this art.

In this first article about crafts around the world we will focus on analyzing the creations that exist in the magical and exotic country of Peru. Peruvian artisans are recognized for their skill and creativity in various forms of art and crafts.

1. Alpaca and Wool Textiles

The Andes region, especially Cusco and Puno, is known for the production of textiles made from natural alpaca fibers and sheep wool. Peruvian artisans create beautiful textiles such as shawls, blankets, ponchos and decorative fabrics using ancient hand-weaving techniques. Here are some of them:

Loom weaving

It is one of the oldest and most widely used weaving techniques in Peru. Peruvian weavers use threads of different colors and patterns to create their own ponchos, blankets, shawls and skirts.

Natural dyeing

Weavers and artisans use dyes obtained from plants, such as the famous cochineal for deep red and pink colours, and walnut for brown tones. If we apply these natural dyes to the threads before weaving, we will have as a result a wide range of vibrant and long-lasting colours.

Embroidery

Peruvian embroiderers use needles and threads to decorate clothing, home textiles and accessories. As we have mentioned, Peruvian artisans love colorful designs that symbolize animals and plants.

Warp and weft

This technique refers to the threads stretched vertically on the loom, while the weft is the thread that is passed horizontally between the warp threads. This technique allows for the creation of geometric patterns and complex designs in Peruvian textiles.

As an interesting fact about Andean traditions, we will end the section on textiles by talking about the quipu . This ancient system of recording and communication was used by Andean civilizations, especially by the Incas, and consisted of ropes of different colors and knots, where the knots and their position on the rope represented numerical and textual information. It seems that they could also have been used to record information about taxes, censuses, and historical events. It is currently still being investigated by experts as it is considered a historical and cultural object in ancient Inca society.

2. Ceramics

Secondly, we will talk about the ceramic artisans, whose diversity and rich tradition can be observed especially in the regions of Cusco, Ayacucho and Puno. As with textiles, Peruvian ceramics also often feature designs with rich colors and symbols of the country's traditions.

Some of the highlighted techniques are:

Hand modeling : As a good craftsman, in this technique you simply use your hands and some basic tools such as sticks, spatulas or stones to give organic shapes to the design.
Potter's wheel : This technique allows for more symmetrical and precise shapes to be achieved as it allows the clay to be turned on a disk while it is moulded by hand or with other special tools.
Relief modeling : Sculpting techniques allow you to create decorative patterns and add relief details to the surface of the clay.
Engobado : This technique is used to create designs in different shades by applying engobes, which are previously colored clays. These are placed on the surface of the ceramic before firing.
Painting and decoration : Paint and enamel are used to create the characteristic Peruvian colour designs. These decorations usually represent human figures, fauna, flora and geometric designs.
Outdoor firing : The firing phase is carried out in open-air kilns using wood. This traditional type of firing can generate variations in the colours and textures of the ceramic, giving it a unique aesthetic.
Firing in an electric or gas oven : Nowadays, to obtain more consistent results and maintain the colour and shine of the enamels, electric or gas ovens are used since this way the firing phase is more precise and controlled.

3. Wood Carving

Another material that Peruvian artisans master is wood. This can be of the following types depending on local availability and the characteristics required for the project.

Types of wood

Huayruro : A reddish wood with great hardness. It is used in the manufacture of jewelry, amulets, beads and other small objects thanks to its great resistance.
Palo Santo : Known for its sweet fragrance and light yellow to brown color, locals use it primarily to create sculptures and decorative objects.
Algarrobo : This is a hard and resistant wood found on the Peruvian coast. It has a warm tone and is used to create furniture, musical instruments and kitchen utensils.
Cedar : Very popular due to its great durability and beauty. Its reddish tones and its resistance to humidity and insects make it ideal for the manufacture of furniture, boxes, carvings and other decorative objects.
Moena : A dark brown to black wood with striking grain. Similar to cedar, it is characterized by its beauty and durability, and is also used for the production of fine furniture, musical instruments and decorative objects.

Types of objects

Artisans create sculptures and decorative objects by carving detailed figures into wood, which are generally inspired by Andean culture, local flora and fauna, and Peruvian mythology. Some of these objects include:

Wooden boxes: They are usually decorated with folkloric designs and motifs, and are commonly used as jewelry boxes, to store small objects or as decorative objects.
Wooden masks: They are part of Peruvian cultural traditions. They represent characters from traditional dances and rituals and are used in festivities, ceremonies and as decorative objects.
Wooden musical instruments: The three traditional Peruvian instruments made of wood are the zampoña, also known as the pan flute, the quena, which is a flute of Andean origin, and finally the Peruvian percussion box.
Kitchen utensils and containers: Spoons, mortars and bowls are some of their most famous creations, highly sought after for both their functionality and their aesthetics.

In the Amazon region of Peru, artisans create beautiful sculptures and utilitarian objects carved from wood. The designs are inspired by nature and the rich diversity of the Amazon rainforest. Artisans use traditional hand-carving techniques to create unique and detailed pieces.

4. Silver Jewelry

The Cajamarca region in the north of the country is known for the production of silver jewelry. Local artisans have their own style, creating unique designs on items such as necklaces, bracelets, rings and earrings, all inspired by Andean and pre-Columbian culture. The techniques they use have been passed down from generation to generation, and we'll look at some of them in more detail below.

Filigree : This involves working fine silver or gold threads into intricate designs to create lace. These threads are then meticulously curved, twisted and welded together to form decorative patterns.
Chiseling : Designs are carved into the surface of the silver using a chisel and hammer. Using precise blows, they create reliefs and textures and make unique creations.
Repujado : Similar to the previous technique, but in this case a punch or burin is used to create the reliefs. Through pressure and careful carving, Cajamarca artisans manage to create three-dimensional pieces, highlighting the elements to which they want to give more importance.
Enamel technique : It consists of melting colored glass onto the surface of the silver, in this way they achieve striking designs, adding bright and vibrant colors.

As in many societies, the use of jewelry is attributed as a symbol of power and status. These accessories such as necklaces, bracelets and earrings made of gold, silver and precious stones were essential in rituals and ceremonies. In fact, the first Cajamarcan jewelry dates back to pre-Columbian times, around 200 to 1470 AD.

5. Burilated Mates

Burilado gourds are gourd vessels that are carved and engraved with intricate designs. This craft is typical of the Huancayo region, located in the Central Highlands of Peru, and is characterized by its meticulousness and attention to detail.

In order to make these unique, internationally known pieces, the gourds must first be grown, with the preferred species being Lagenaria siceraria. A careful selection is then made to ensure a good level of hardness and strength. The artisan then uses a burin or knife to embody his ideas on the surface of the gourd. These designs may include traditional motifs, geometric figures, animals, scenes from everyday life, folklore scenes, landscapes or other custom designs.

In addition, many artisans, in order to give a touch of color to their designs, choose hand painting, the application of natural dyes or even smoking, which serves to darken some areas, enhancing the contrast.

In this first article about crafts around the world we will focus on analyzing the creations that exist in the magical and exotic country of Peru. The artisans of Peru are recognized for their skill and creativity in various forms of art and crafts. 1. Alpaca and Wool Textiles The Andes region, especially in Peru, is home to […]

It is difficult to pinpoint who the first craftsmen were in human history, as crafts developed independently in different parts of the world at the same time. Nevertheless, the first manifestations of craftsmanship emerged in the Paleolithic, during the period known as the Stone Age.

Origin

In the Paleolithic, humans began to build stone tools to facilitate different daily tasks, such as building shelters, hunting, fighting the cold and gathering food. These tools were made by carving stones, bones, animal skins and wood.

For example, in Africa, evidence of carved stone tools dating back more than 2 million years has been found, indicating an ancient craft tradition on that continent.

On the other hand, carved stone tools dating back more than 40,000 years have been discovered in Europe and Asia, such as the famous artifacts from the Chauvet Cave in France or the cave paintings in Altamira in Spain, which show the skill and creativity of early craftsmen.

And what was their evolution when we stopped being hunter-gatherers?

At the beginning of civilization, human communities began to incorporate more materials than those mentioned above, such as metals and plant fibers. Thanks to the incorporation of these, they were able to further perfect their utensils, ornaments, weapons and clothing. These skills were passed down from generation to generation and were perfected over time.

Crafts were not only intended to satisfy the needs of ancient societies, but also played an important role in the cultural expression and identity of peoples, since, as we have seen, they originated simultaneously in different parts of the world. Craftsmen produced practical and functional objects that were indispensable for the survival and progress of their community.

As time has passed and technology has advanced, craftsmanship has evolved and has had to compete against industrialization and mass production, drastically diminishing traditional craftsmanship in many places. However, craftsmanship still exists and is valued in different forms around the world, either preserving ancient techniques and traditions or fusing them with modern and contemporary approaches.

What is the future of this art?

In today's society, the role of the artisan remains important and valuable, although as we mentioned, it faces many challenges compared to the past. Some of the functions and roles that artisans play in contemporary society are as follows:

Promoting sustainability and conscious consumption: Crafts are often associated with more sustainable and environmentally friendly production processes, since in most cases, they use local, recycled or naturally-sourced materials, avoiding the use of harmful chemicals.
Job creation and economic development: For those rural communities or regions with rich artisanal activity, this can be an important source of employment, generating income for themselves and their communities through the sale of their products. In fact, it can also be a tourist attraction and thus contribute to local economic development.
Conscious consumption: Artisanal production encourages a conscious consumption approach, valuing quality, durability and manual work over mass and disposable production.
Preservation of traditions and cultural heritage: Artisans play a crucial role in preserving artisanal techniques, knowledge and traditions passed down from generation to generation. By keeping traditional crafts alive, they contribute to the preservation of the cultural heritage of a community or region.
Innovation and fusion of tradition and modernity: Many artisans also explore new techniques and materials, combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary approaches and designs. This allows artisans to adapt to changing market tastes and needs, while keeping artisan traditions alive.

Can we classify other living beings as artisans?

Surely most of you have witnessed how some animal species display skills in making and constructing objects, such as bird nests or spider webs. These behaviors are not considered craftsmanship in the human sense. These examples of animal construction are more instinctive and are related to survival, reproduction and innate behavior.

Craftsmanship, as it is understood in human society, implies a specific cultural and creative dimension that goes beyond the mere functionality that other living beings can give it. For humans, craftsmanship could ultimately be summarized as the application of specific skills, techniques and knowledge transmitted through generations, as the expression of individual creativity and the interpretation of reality and culture.

It is difficult to pinpoint who the first craftsmen were in the history of mankind, as crafts developed independently in different parts of the world at the same time. Despite this, the first manifestations of craftsmanship emerged in the Paleolithic, during the period known as the Stone Age. Origin […]

Before discovering the 10 most important characteristics, I would like to start this article with another question: are craftspeople made or born?

As you can imagine, being a craftsperson combines natural talent and skills that develop over time. Some people may have a kind of innate "gift", such as a natural ability to work with their hands, be creative, or appreciate beauty from a young age.

However, this does not mean that other people cannot learn and become artisans. With enough interest, passion and practice, anyone can develop artisan skills. Through dedication, education and experience, it is possible to acquire the necessary techniques and create unique and genuine pieces.

In short, anyone, through dedication and learning, can acquire over time the talent that will lead them to become a true craftsman.

And now it's time to answer the question of the article and go over the 10 points in more detail:

Constant learning and curiosity

They are curious people who seek to learn new techniques, explore new ideas and stay up to date in their craft field.

Manual dexterity

They possess specific technical skills and manual dexterity in their trade, allowing them to work with precision and skill. As we saw earlier, these skills can be acquired over time. As the saying goes: "No one is born knowing."

Passion and dedication

Artisans love their creations and know that experience is closely related to perfecting their skills and technique, thus taking their work to the next level.

Knowledge of the material

They have a deep knowledge of the materials they work with, knowing how to manipulate them and get the most out of them.

Creativity

Craftsmen are able to think innovatively and originally, creating unique and distinctive pieces.

Perseverance

Artisans know that it is not an easy path and they do not give up easily in the face of challenges that may arise in their creative process. As Ramana Maharshi said: “No one succeeds without effort. Those who succeed owe it to perseverance.”

Entrepreneurial spirit

Many artisans also possess entrepreneurial skills, allowing them to promote and sell their creations, run their own business and build relationships with customers.

Attention to detail

They pay meticulous attention to every aspect of their work, ensuring that every detail is well taken care of and of high quality.

Appreciation for tradition

They know the importance of keeping this art alive and therefore value and respect the techniques and traditions passed down through generations.

Authenticity

Artisans pride themselves on creating authentic and genuine products, avoiding mass production and encouraging the uniqueness of their work.

Do you consider yourself a craftsperson? You may not have realized it yet, or it may not have been expressed in you, but I assure you that we all have a craftsperson inside. Now is the time to preserve those artisan traditions in order to preserve the culture, art and history of a community. The new source of power is not money as we have been led to believe over the last few centuries, but rather transforming the information acquired by our ancestors into knowledge.

Before I uncover the 10 most important characteristics, I would like to start this article with another question: are craftspeople made or born? As we can imagine, being a craftsperson combines natural talent and skills that develop over time. Some people may have a kind of innate “gift”, like a […]

Today we are going to talk about a series of disciplines that most of you will have heard of, but after reviewing them, they may awaken the artisan within us.

In a previous article (“What are the 10 most important traits of a craftsperson?”) we saw that craftsmen are not born but made, and here we will try to stimulate that inner artist in case you have not yet discovered your passion(s).

There are numerous craft disciplines that cover a wide variety of creative fields. Let's review the most common ones:

1. Carpentry

The art of artisanal carpentry is a discipline in which craftsmen use traditional skills and techniques to work wood and create functional and aesthetically appealing objects. Creations can range from furniture, sculptures, carvings, marquetry, among others. Before embarking on our project, it would be interesting to delve into the world of wood, its characteristics and properties, and thus choose the one that best suits the idea we have in mind.

Types of wood

Here we propose 5 types of wood ordered by price, from lowest to highest.

Pine : Pine is an inexpensive softwood that is widely used by craftsmen because it is widely available and has a light color and distinctive grain. Although less durable than some other woods, pine is easy to work with and is suitable for less complex woodworking projects such as frames, shelving, and decorative items.
Oak : Oak is usually moderately to highly priced, depending on the quality and variety. It is a hard, durable wood and has a distinctive grain. The color can range from light to darker shades, making it ideal for projects that require strength and durability, such as wall and floor coverings, doors, and furniture.
Maple : Maple can range in price from budget options to high-quality varieties. It is considered a hard, durable wood with a clear, smooth appearance. In this case, the colors can vary from creamy white to golden tones. Thanks to its fine grain and ability to be stained or painted, it is a highly prized wood in carpentry for the creation of parquet, musical instruments, stairs, furniture and kitchen utensils.
Walnut : Walnut tends to be a high-priced wood due to its beauty and aesthetic appeal, known for its dark brown hue and pronounced grain. It is valued for its beauty and is used in the manufacture of high-quality furniture, musical instruments and decorative objects.
Cherry : Cherry is also in the high-end price range due to its warm appearance and richer tone over time. It is a warm-toned, hard wood that ages gracefully to a darker reddish hue over time. Woodworkers value it for its uniform grain and natural beauty, giving it uses similar to walnut in the making of fine furniture, musical instruments, boxes and kitchenware.

In addition to choosing the right wood, artisan carpenters often do a detailed design and create a plan for the construction process. So grab a pen and paper and consider the dimensions, aesthetics, functionality, and ornamental details of your idea.

Another very important aspect, without which we will not be able to carry out our project, are the tools. In artisanal carpentry, traditional hand tools are used, such as planes, chisels, hand saws, gouges and mallets, instead of power tools. However, in recent years, there are many craftsmen who use this type of tools because it makes the work process easier for them, and thus they are more efficient and precise.

2. Ceramics

The art of artisanal ceramics is a form of creative expression that involves the creation and manipulation of clay objects. In the world of pottery, there are countless traditional techniques and tools for molding, decorating, and the firing process of clay. Below we will see some of these techniques as well as the materials necessary to carry out your projects.

As we did previously with wood, the first step is to know the types of clays that exist and their properties. We are going to review some of them ordered by the most affordable price:

Types of clay

Earthenware clay : Earthenware clay tends to be the most economical of all due to its wide availability and ease of workability. It is a low-temperature clay that is white or creamy in color in its natural state and is known for being nonporous, water-resistant, and durable. Artisan potters use it to make tableware, plates, mugs, bowls, and other kitchenware. It is typically glazed and fired at temperatures between 1000°C and 1200°C.
Red clay : Red clay is also relatively affordable for all budgets. It contains a higher amount of iron oxides, which gives it that characteristic reddish color. Due to its greater strength and durability, it is commonly used in more rustic pottery projects, as well as the production of bricks, tiles, flowerpots and more structural objects. Red clay requires temperatures similar to those of earthenware clay, around 1000°C and 1200°C. We must also always take into account the type of oven and the size and thickness of the piece.
Stoneware clay : Stoneware is generally more expensive than the two previous clays as it has a higher level of both durability and strength. It is a high-temperature clay and being denser and less porous than earthenware clay, makes it suitable for tableware and utilitarian pieces. It is fired at higher temperatures, generally between 1200°C and 1300°C, to achieve optimal firing.
Fireclay : Fireclay can be more expensive due to its specialized composition as it requires high heat resistance and is used for the manufacture of ceramics that are exposed to extreme temperatures, such as firebricks, roof tiles or chimneys. It is fired at temperatures of up to 1300°C.
Porcelain clay : Porcelain is considered by potters to be one of the finest and most delicate clays, which is why it tends to have a higher price compared to the previous ones. It is characterized by its white and smooth appearance, and according to artisans, one of the most difficult to work with. It has a wide variety of uses, such as lamps, sculptures, tableware, architectural elements, and its firing temperature is between 1200°C and 1400°C.

A potter uses a variety of tools to shape, decorate and work clay, but it is not essential to have all of them to start getting your hands dirty with this art.

Tools

Potter's wheel: This is a fundamental tool for potters, and can be electric or manual. Artisans consider it essential for working clay in a rotating manner and giving uniformity to their ideas.
Rolling pin: Used to flatten and spread clay. Can be made of wood, plastic or metal.
Spatulas: Ideal for smoothing surfaces and creating details.
Blades: Used to cut shapes and make precise incisions.
Scrapers: Help to remove excess clay and define the contours of the piece.
Sponges: Cleaning, moistening, softening and polishing clay are some of their uses.
Stakes: Thin, pointed tools used to create fine details, textures and lines in clay.
Brushes: Used to apply glazes, slips and decorations to ceramics.
Cutting Wire: Used to separate pieces of clay from the wheel or to cut shapes and sections of clay.

Okay, now that we have our project in mind (or even better, on paper), and we have also chosen the right type of clay and tools, what are the next steps to take?

First of all, the clay must be kneaded to remove any impurities. Next comes the modelling phase, in which the potter gives shape and life to his work either manually or with the help of a wheel. Once we like the design, it must be left to dry slowly, so that it becomes firm. If we want to apply a glaze to the piece, we must first do a “bisque” which consists of firing our work at a low temperature using a bisque kiln. The glaze forms a layer that provides texture, shine and colour to the ceramic. Finally comes the moment of firing at a high temperature, which will depend on the type of clay we have used and the size of our piece.

There are many places that offer ovens for firing our own pieces, so there is no excuse not to roll up your sleeves and start today.

3. Jewelry

Another of the most extensive disciplines would be jewelry. Who wouldn't like to create their own design? We have enjoyed our creations since we were little, which is why there are countless children's games that allow us to explore and stimulate our creativity. Handmade jewelry is the creation of unique and personalized jewelry using artisan techniques and skills. Since there is such a wide variety of materials, there are artisans who specialize in some of them. As we have done with the other disciplines, we are going to see which are the most used materials in handmade jewelry ordered by most affordable price.

Types of materials

Recycled materials : Recycled paper, plastic, fabric, are examples of sustainable elements that are relatively low cost or sometimes free, to create unique jewelry.
Beads and charms : These can be made of glass, ceramic, metal, wood and plastic, and being widely available makes them an economical option for those artisans who want to enter the world of jewelry.
Wires and threads : Whether made of gold, silver, copper, stainless steel and nylon, these are used for stringing, weaving and wire-wrapping in handmade jewelry. These are usually moderately priced and widely available.
Semi-precious stones and gems : In this category we would have amethysts, topazes, quartz and tourmalines, which can vary in price depending on their quality, size and rarity. These offer a wide variety of colors and textures to make your design a reality with attractive and visual colors. Normally, they are more affordable than precious stones.
Precious Metals : Gold and silver have a significant cost due to their intrinsic value. These metals are widely used in handmade jewelry in different alloys to obtain different colors and properties, such as sterling silver, yellow gold, white gold, among others.
Gemstones : Lastly, we have to talk about diamonds, rubies, sapphires and emeralds. Artisans use them to add color, sparkle and value to their creations. They are usually found set in precious metals. The price of these stones varies substantially depending on their size, clarity, color and cut.

I know that some of you will be thinking that in order to manipulate such small pieces in a precise manner, very specific tools are needed, which is why here we leave you an initial list to be able to start carrying out our creations.

Tools

Round Nose Pliers: Used for bending wire, making precise connections and forming loops.
Cutting Pliers: Typically used to cut wire, chain and other jewelry materials precisely.
Flat Nose Pliers: The craftsman needs to hold and clamp his jewelry pieces, to bend and shape wires and metal sheets.
Jewelry File: Smooths and shapes metal edges and surfaces, allowing for a more precise finish.
Jeweler's Hammer: Used for forging and shaping metals, as well as texturing and securing components.
Jeweler's torch: Allows the application of controlled heat for welding, melting and working precious metals.
Polishing stone: Very frequently used to polish and shine metals and precious stones.
Drill bits and milling cutters: Cutting tools used in drilling and forming metals.
Jewelers saw: Used to cut pipes and metals precisely.
Cutting Pliers: Hold and cut fine wires and jewelry components.
Burins and chisels: To engrave and carve your designs.
Mandrel and measuring rings: Allows you to measure and adjust rings to obtain a perfect fit.

Today we are going to talk about a series of disciplines that most of you will have heard of, but after reviewing them, they may awaken the artisan in us all. In a previous article (“What are the 10 most important traits of an artisan?”) we saw that one is not born an artisan […]

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