From Idea to Experiment
Project ALCC began with a spark of inspiration while comparing stamps, stencils, and a logo-etched slate coaster. The slate’s rough texture and design reminded me of the surface carving techniques I use in my ceramic artwork, and I began to wonder. Could a laser engraver recreate those effects, like a stencil, stamp, or even something entirely new?
Bridging Ceramics and Technology
One Experiment at a Time
Starting
At first, I wasn’t sure what I was doing. I bought an inexpensive laser to test the idea on clay. It’s not very powerful, but the results have been consistent. The biggest challenge is that each test takes one to two hours.
Hours Spent on Project ALCC
Testing and Tweaking
These test tiles depict research from Project ALCC that investigated how laser settings and designs interact with clay. Some ideas succeeded, while others didn't, but each taught me something new and helped me improve the process.
Failures
This failed test demonstrated that I needed a stronger laser and taught me important lessons about how to correctly produce and avoid mistakes when manufacturing tiles. Not all of my ideas work with the laser I have currently, but each setback allows me to improve my approach.
Small Wins, Big Potential
New Direction
Creating new designs and concepts based on insights gathered through Project ALCC.
Prototype Progress
A glimpse at successful prototypes from my Project ALCC experiments
Top Outcomes from Project ALCC (So Far)