Forming Techniques

To create a quality piece of pottery, the potter must have a good grasp of certain techniques.

• Handbuilding - The most versatile technique includes pinching out shapes from soft clay, coiling ropes of clay, and building forms from flat slabs of clay. Handbuilding is a calming technique with the freedom to express yourself through a piece of clay.

o Pinching – The perfect technique for beginners to become comfortable working with clay. Any type of clay that is soft and easy to form can be used, but grogged clay is the preferred type. Different shapes can be achieved by rolling the clay in one hand while shaping it with the thumb and fingers of the other hand.
o Coiling – A technique of building forms from ropes of clay. The coils can be rolled by hand one at a time or if you choose to make several at a time, wrap them in plastic to keep them damp. It is advisable to sketch a design of your piece and the type of clay you will use. A turntable or whirler is useful when coiling. Stoneware clay is recommended for small or medium size vessels, and porcelain for very fine pieces.
o Slab building – Used to make sharp pieces with angles or softer forms depending on the stiffness of your clay. Slabs are made by rolling out pieces of clay to the appropriate width, length, and thickness, then cutting and joining them. Be sure that the joints are firm so they do not come apart in the kiln. Keep the thickness even or the clay will shrink unevenly causing the pot to warp or crack during firing.

• Throwing – A technique performed on a potter’s wheel requiring practice to learn the necessary control. You must perfect the art of centering the ball of clay on the exact center of the wheelhead. The softness and consistency of the clay is very important with the throwing technique. If the clay is too soft it will loose strength as you pull it up to form the walls of the pot. Clay that is too hard can strain the walls of the pot causing warping, twisting, and cracking. Use water or slip for lubrication so the clay easily slides through your fingers. Be careful not to use too much or the clay will become soft and flabby.