tips

See below for tips related to the creation of art as well as the business side of things.  When creating art, always follow appropriate safety measures.   

Favorite Ceramic Stores

I love Coyote Clay for their clays and glazes.  They have friendly and helpful customer service. 

http://coyoteclay.com/

The Ceramic Store offers a wide selection as well as helpful hints.

http://www.ceramicstoreinc.com/

Xiem offers fun tools that make throwing easier. 

http://www.xiemclaycenter.com/

Big Ceramic Store is a great place for just about anything. 

http://www.bigceramicstore.com/

Raku

If you want to build a raku kiln, check out this book.  It has detailed directions on building the kiln as well as a clear crackle raku glaze recipe.

http://books.google.com/books/about/Alternative_Kilns_Firing_Techniques.html?id=eMeEnoQ4shgC

If I had not had the abilty to build a kiln, I think I would have bought this kit. 

http://www.brackers.com/kilns/bracker

Kiln Vent

You should have a vent system on your electric kiln not only for safety but also for the longevity of your kiln sitter.  This website has a fantastic guide to helping you build a down draft vent for an electric kiln.

http://cone6pots.ning.com/page/doityourself-kiln-power-vent

Skutt also sells a vent system.

http://www.skutt.com/products/enviro2.html

Sink Waste

In order to prevent ceramic waste from going down the drain, here is an easy to install product. 

http://store.ceramicstoreinc.com/gelcosinktrak.html

Safety

Your health is valuable.  Be safe.  This is a great resource for understanding some of the potential hazards when creating art.

http://books.google.com/books/about/The_Artist_s_Complete_Health_and_Safety.html?id=E7-9unTgJrwC

Business Help

For business startup, I started with Legal Zoom. 

http://www.legalzoom.com/

This wonderful website is hosted by 1&1.

http://www.1and1.com/