Craft Gossip

Independent craft blog since 2007

ISGB Gathering – 2 Special Events with Space Left

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I received my weekly email newsletter from The Glass Art Society and I needed to share some of the info. First thing I’m posting is about a couple of events tied to the International Society of Glass Bead Makers Gathering coming up in August and the deadlines are approaching. So here goes…

Corning Museum of Glass Adventure with Marshall Hyde and Friends Let glass bead artist and Corning resident Marshall Hyde take you on an
incredible adventure to Corning, New York. Get the VIP treatment by going behind the scenes on tours guided by Curators from the Corning
Museum of Glass (CMOG) and The Director of The Studio. CMOG holds the world’s most extensive collections of art, science, and industrial
glass. Prepare for sensory overload! The trip wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Finger Lakes region for wine tasting and fabulous
cuisine. All this, and you’ll still make it back in time for Open Torch!

DATE: WEDNESDAY, JULY 28 TIME: 8 AM to 8 PM LOCATION: Hyatt Regency Rochester to Corning and Return via
Private Bus Transportation
COST:$ 65 Per Person (limited space available) First Come, First ConfirmedBasis RESERVATION DEADLINE: JUNE 15

Lunch and an Afternoon with Milon Townsend This rare opportunity includes a studio tour, lunch and demonstration with respected and well-known artist Milon Townsend. Begin the afternoon with a terrific luncheon catered by Milon’s wife, Kiyoko, on the lawn of their beautiful five
acre property in Hilton, NY. If you need to stretch after lunch, you can enjoy the 1.25 mile nature trail.Then, tour Milon’s incredible
‘studios-within-a-studio’ which includes flameworking, kiln casting, cold working, lamination and assembly and photography. He will also
offer a detailed flameworking demonstration of a sculptural piece, as well as show various and unique aspects of the lost wax and kiln
casting process. Imagine…a fantastic lunch, demonstrations that define Milon’s distinctive style and a studio tour all while enjoying the
beautiful scenery – all with the artist!
DATE: WEDNESDAY, JULY 28 TIME: 12 NOON to 4 PM LOCATION: Hyatt RegencyRochester to the Townsend Home and Return via Private Bus Transportation
COST: $ 65 Per Person (limited space available) First Come, First ConfirmedBasis

RESERVATION DEADLINE:  JUNE 15

Have you read?

Etsy Feature – Pottery Travel Mug Template Set (3 Pieces)

There’s something so satisfying about a handmade travel mug. It’s practical, stylish, and makes your daily coffee or tea ritual feel that little bit more special. With this set of 3 pottery travel mug templates, you can create your own ceramic mugs that not only look professional but also make thoughtful, personal gifts.

What’s Included

This set comes with three different templates for slab-building your own travel mugs. Each template has slightly different proportions, giving you variety in size and style. That way you can experiment until you find the perfect fit for your hand—or make a matching set for family and friends.

Why These Templates Are Worth It

  • Reusable & Reliable: Print and trace them as many times as you want.

  • Practical Design: The angled opening and lid slot make them comfortable and functional.

  • Perfect for Beginners: Templates take the guesswork out of hand-building.

  • Gift-Worthy: A handmade travel mug is a unique, eco-friendly present that anyone would appreciate.

Inspiration for Makers

  • Try a speckled clay body with a matte glaze for a modern, minimalist vibe.

  • Add underglaze designs or decals for a personalized look.

  • Make a full set of mugs in coordinating colors—perfect for a couple or family gift.

  • Pair your finished mugs with a bag of specialty coffee or tea for a beautiful handmade gift set.

Why You’ll Love It

Handmade pottery mugs have a warmth and character that no store-bought cup can compete with. Using these templates makes the process approachable, while still leaving plenty of room for your creativity to shine. And honestly? Everyone I know could use a good travel mug—so why not make one that feels personal and one-of-a-kind?

You can grab the set here: Travel Mugs Set Templates (3 Pieces) on Etsy.

This post is part of my Etsy Feature series, where I share clay tools and templates that make creating both functional and decorative pottery easier and more fun. And if you’re looking for a project that balances everyday use with handmade charm, these travel mugs might be your next go-to.