Re-Purposing Damaged Cups

For one  reason or another most potters end up with some pieces that are not able to be used the way they were originally intended to be. For instance, these two cups were the casualties of a kiln explosion. On the outside they are totally fine, but the interior was too damaged to be food safe.
 I really liked the outside, so I kept them, and tried to figure out a way to make them useful. The end results were these cute windowsill planters which are perfect for succulents. I purchased a hollow, diamond-tipped, drill bit and put holes in the bottom of these guys, and a few others that I have  since given away as gifts (they make great little presents!). It was a bit tricky drilling them because you have to keep the drill bit wet, hold the cup in place, and manage not to crack the cup itself, but overall they were totally worth it.

Another way that I have found to re-purpose damaged cups is to make them into candles. Making the candles really isn't that hard, and they become cute hand-made gifts that people really appreciate. This photo is a close-up of some candles made from re-purposed cups for the GLAM show last December. Not only does all your work not go to waste, but by refashioning these pieces it also adds a little diversity to your merchandise which is always good!

Currently, I am working on building my collection of bowls for my upcoming show. I'm having a hard time not keeping a few of these guys. Check 'em out below. There are these and more on my website BiancaWilliamsCeramics.com.