design process

Memory Box Design products are heavily researched with plenty of iteration and experimenting thrown in.  I generally start with an idea and work that into an inspiration board, illustrating, experimenting and prototyping until I’ve achieved a product that both looks good and works well. Ceramic art is by its nature, slow design.  A design can take months to move from conception to final production, depending on its complexity. Along the way, clay bodies, glazes, making techniques, forms and firing schedules will all need to be refined to achieve the desired result. 

I specialise in hand-building Australian stoneware because of their gorgeous textures and varieties of clay. I make my own moulds from low fired clay.  I also work with plaster moulds and slip casting.

Many steps go into building ceramics. Different variables will affect the making time, including the weather, size and clay type, firing schedule, kiln mishaps, cracks and remakes.  The list goes on.  Not to mention making time, sanding, glazing. You get the idea. So five to six weeks is a realistic timeframe if you’re having something specially made. That said, if you need something urgently, please contact. I will do my best to meet your deadline.

Memory Box Design is proudly… 

slow

The art of ceramics is part science, part magic.  You can’t rush it. And when you think you’ve covered all design angles, the kiln gods have a bad day and you have to start again.  On the plus side, ceramics teaches you to slow down, drink lots of tea and go with the flow.  

perfectly imperfect

Just like misshapen bananas, flaws in ceramics lead to a LOT of waste. Memory Box Design makes products that are inherently flawed. It’s an intentional part of the design. It means less waste. And less waste is good for the planet. We also offer the Perfect Imperfect range, for those that like their bananas extra wonky!

people made

Handmade means made by people. And people are different from machines. They need cups of tea and sunshine and variety so they don’t die of boredom. That's why I always attribute my pieces to the maker. And don't be surprised if you also find a smudge or a finger print. Aren't you lucky, you’ve just found the makers mark!

mix-n-match

Creatives don't cope with repetition, so no two Memory Box Design pieces are exactly the same and collections are designed for mixing and matching. They're different but work together harmoniously. How diversity is supposed to work. Its special to be one of a kind!

small batch

Did I mention people aren't machines? There’s nothing like repetition to dull the creative juices. So while Memory Box Design offers some repeat designs, the emphasis is on keeping it fresh. It’ll cost you more but you’ll know what you've got is unique.

earth friendly

My philosophy is simple. I design for longevity, by making products you love. If you value it, you will treasure it and pass it on. Stuff isn't inherently bad but we have far too much of it. I want people to buy consciously and be invested in the objects they own.

Memory Box Design is committed to decreasing it’s environmental impact. Like using Australian clay, recycled and biodegradable packaging, and firing at lower temperatures where possible. It takes a bit of paper to ship ceramics safely so please recycle packaging thoughtfully. If you do get the odd bit of bubble wrap with your parcel, you can be assured it is repurposed. Please drop it off at your local soft plastic recycler.