After being inspired by arts and crafts pottery vases on the Internet, I decided to give the shape a try myself!!! 🤩
A few tips:
Forming The Walls:
I create an opening in the clay’s center by pressing my thumbs down while the wheel is in motion. Gradually widening the hole to the desired size is essential; a smaller opening leaves more clay in the walls, allowing for a taller pot.
As I pull the clay upward, I focus on maintaining straight walls with consistent, controlled movements, ensuring even thickness. While you can start shaping the vase from the beginning, I find it beneficial to first throw the walls to the desired height.
Shaping:
Shaping the vase involves either using wet fingers, a rib or holding a sponge to push the clay from the inside. I also support the top part of the wall to maintain its original dimensions, preventing it from following the lower part. You can bring in the top by gently squeezing it with both hands, the shaping of the curve can be done with a combination of using a ribs and your hands, while the rib gets a smooth look. Your hands will be able to manipulate the clay a lot easier without taking away a lot of the surface which ribs tend to to
I always leave rib for the final finishing or help even our wall thickness
Finishing:
Once you have the look your after you can add decoration to the outside using a variety of tools such as this wooden tool I used to create the twist effect, while its completely up to you, the design you put on your vase can help highlight your glaze and create high and low spots for the clay to peak and pool
After 24-48 hours, I trim the base with a foot ring, ensuring it’s a similar thickness to the walls. This helps the piece dry evenly. Covering the vase with a bag for 14-20 days slows the drying process, reducing the risk of cracks due to air drafts.
Hope you enjoyed this post and as always Happy Potting!!! 🥳🥳
