CLAY FLOWER-JARS 109 



and surprising durability by a very simple process. The 

 ordinary modelling clay so largely used in schools is a prac- 

 ticable material which, when dry and coated with enamel 

 paint, makes good durable jars. 



The process of making is simple. Having on hand some 

 of the clay, break it up and moisten it to a condition to be 

 workable; then mold it to the de- 

 sired form and set it aside to dry for a 

 week or more. When dry, coat it 

 inside and out with enamel paint, and 

 set aside again for the paint to hard- 

 en thoroughly. You then have a 

 flower-jar into which you can easily 

 place a flowering bulb just coming 

 into blossom, and the whole will serve 

 admirably for adorning your own liv- 

 ing rooms or as a present to a friend. 



Before beginning to mold the jar 

 you should have in mind the form you 

 wish to make. Draw a series of pen- 

 cil sketches of forms of flower-jars 

 and choose the ones you like best, or 

 copy some simple form in vase or picture. For the most part 

 these hand-modelled jars must be not very high in proportion 

 to their breadth and not complicated in design. They are 

 all the better for being of the simplest forms. Different 

 bulbs require different sized jars; the jonquils and smaller 

 varieties of narcissi may be transplanted into smaller jars 

 than the larger daffodils. It is better not to attempt to 

 make a drainage hole in the bottom; the hole is not necessary 

 for the bulbs and the painting becomes more uncertain and 



Crocus in a Clay Flower-jar. 



