Buying Sculpting Clay

[Garretto]

I like to sculpt in clay. I've been here a little over a year and I'm just starting to set up my workshop, kiln etc... But I can't find anywhere on the island where I can buy clay. I was counting on that art supply store in Hilo, when I moved here, but they went out of business...

Is that anywhere on the island that sells ceramic clay?

Thanks for any help...

[mella l]

Perhaps you can get in touch with Devany and find out where her supplier is, maybe a group or something like a co-opt. Check out the Maku'u market on the weekends and ask other potters. Good luck with your craft and finding your supplies!

mella l

"New York London Paris Hilo"

[YurtGirl]

I'd check out Hawaii Community College art department and find out where they get theirs. Also, there's a woman that gives a class in Volcano, check her out too. Are you wanting water based? I was surprised at the cost when I used to get it from Hilo Art and Glass, it was about 30 a bag, I was used to paying 10! But hey, we're a long way from AZ~

[Devany]

I am a ceramic artist. You can buy ^10 clay at the community college bookstore when they have it. There are suppliers on Oahu that will sell it to you... shipping is not cheap and two 25# bags will be your weight limit on most airlines, not very cost effective.

What kind of kiln do you have? How hot does it fire?

I buy my clay (mostly ^10 porcelain and Black Mountain directly from Laguna by the ton. It comes on a pallet and we go down to the docks to pick it up. Sometimes I share shipments with a friend who lives in Honokaa.

My friend Shannon Hickey owns High Fire (recently moved to the bay front next to the Kava bar) she is teaching some classes using ^ 6 clays and might be willing to sell you some, but that will include her shipping charges etc.

There is also a Ceramic Art Guild in Captain Cook and you may be able to get some lower ^ clay from them.

Contact me directly for more information. I would be glad to help.

Aloha au i Hawai`i,
devany

www.myhawaiianhome.blogspot.com
www.eastbaypotters.blogspot.com

[Carey]

Dick Blick Art Supplies has one of the more reasonable shipping prices for us. I have used them for graphic supplies:
http://www.dickblick.com/customerservice/shipping/

[Garretto]

Thanks for all the suggestions.

While in Denver, for Christmas at my sisters, I discovered the large size USPS priority box will hold 50 lbs of clay. The shipping rate is a standard 13.95 a box (up to 70 lbs). 50 lbs cost me $25 so it isn't a bad deal. Ends up about $20 a bag. I'll just have my sister ship it to me.

I have a electric kiln, fires to 10, I usually fire to cone 5 or 6...