In this guide, we’ll take you through the process of crafting a hand-built dinner plate from start to finish. Here are the steps to create your beautiful, custom dinner plate:
Step 1: Begin by tracing the shape of your dinner plate onto a piece of clay. And cut out with a clay knife.
Step 2: Lay the clay on your mould, ensuring it’s relatively centered. Use a tool to smooth it onto the mould’s surface, ensuring an even and well-distributed layer of clay.
Step 3: With a mud tool, carefully clean up the edges of the clay. This step helps ensure that your dinner plate will have neat and even edges.
Step 4: The beauty of this method is its simplicity and versatility. You can use a plaster mould, or even a plate from your kitchen. To prevent clay from sticking to the plate, cover it with a layer of glad wrap.
Step 5: It’s crucial to let the clay dry completely before removing it from the plaster mould. This is to prevent warping. Be patient during this stage.
Step 6: Once the clay has dried sufficiently, gently pop it out of the mould. Handle it carefully to maintain the plate’s shape and structure.
Step 7: After removing the plate from the mould, clean both the interior and edges to achieve a smooth and polished finish.
Step 8: Place a bag over the plate and leave it on until it dries completely. This method helps control the drying process, ensuring even drying and minimizing the risk of cracks.
Step 9: Once your plate is fully dry, you’re ready for the firing process. Start with a bisque firing to prepare the clay for glazing, and then proceed to glaze firing to achieve the final desired look.
By following these steps, you’ll have created a hand-built dinner plate, customised to your preferences. This piece will add a personal and artistic touch to your dining experience. Enjoy your handmade dinner plate!
Happy Potting to you! 😀
