If you’re new to pottery and looking for a fun and creative project, making a bell flower windchime is a great way to start. This simple yet elegant piece will not only enhance your pottery skills but also add a charming touch to your home or garden. Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own seven-bell flower windchime. If you don’t have access to a community kiln, you can use air dry clay and acrylic paints.
Materials You’ll Need:
- Clay (stoneware or earthenware) or air dry clay
- Rolling pin or slab roller
- Needle tool or pin tool
- Small bowl, cup or round cookie cutter (to shape the flowers)
- Sponge and water
- Wooden modeling tools
- Slip or scoring tool
- Kiln for firing
- Underglazes or glazes of your choice or acrylic paints
- High-fire wire or fishing line for hanging
- Wooden or ceramic ring for assembling
Step 1: Prepare Your Clay
Before you begin, wedge your clay thoroughly to remove air bubbles. Roll out a slab of clay about ¼ inch thick. This thickness provides durability while still allowing the bells to produce a pleasant sound when they chime.
Step 2: Cut Out the Bell Flowers
Use a round cutter or a freehand template to cut out seven circular pieces from the clay slab. These will form the petals of your bell flowers. Gently shape them into a bowl-like form by placing them over an inverted small bowl or cup. Smooth the edges with a damp sponge to prevent sharp spots.
Step 3: Add Texture and Details
Using a wooden modeling tool, create petal indentations to mimic the natural look of flowers. You can also press lace, leaves, or texture mats onto the clay for added detail. Make a small hole at the top of each flower for hanging later.
Step 4: Make the Clappers
The clappers are the small pieces inside each bell that create sound when they move. Roll small clay beads or use tiny sculpted shapes to serve as clappers. Make sure each piece has a small hole for stringing.
Step 5: Dry and Fire Your Pieces
Let your clay pieces dry slowly and evenly to avoid cracking. Once they are bone dry, bisque fire them in a kiln at the recommended temperature for your clay type.
Step 6: Glaze and Fire Again
After the bisque firing, apply underglaze or glaze in colors that complement your style. Consider using blues, greens, or floral shades to enhance the bell flower look. Fire the pieces again to achieve a finished, glossy surface.
Step 7: Assemble the Windchime
Using high-fire wire or fishing line, thread each flower bell and clapper, tying secure knots. Attach the bells at varying lengths to a ceramic or wooden ring. Ensure there is enough space between them so they can move and chime with the wind.
Enjoy Your Handmade Pottery Windchime!
Once assembled, find a breezy spot to hang your windchime and enjoy the soft, melodic sounds. This project is perfect for beginner potters looking to practice slab building, texturing, and glazing techniques. If you’re interested in learning more about pottery, consider signing up for a pottery class to refine your skills and explore new projects.
For more beginner pottery tips and creative ideas, check out our other blog posts on pottery techniques and DIY home decor!