Begin by cutting out two circles from slab clay, rolled to a thickness of 18 cm for optimal shaping.
Place one circle on a plaster mould, ensuring its level and smoothing out imperfections with your trusty clay tools.
Repeat the process for the second circle, then, once the clay has dried sufficiently (consider using a heat gun for quicker firming), remove both halves from their moulds.
For more on specifics on hand building such as preparing your clay, wedging, rolling out your clay & some tools you may need, check out our previous blog post “How to make a pottery tumbler part 1-2“
With a clay knife, trim the edges to be joined, then score and slip both sides before firmly pressing them together.
Use your clay tools to smooth the edges and shape your vase to perfection, gently tapping it on a table to form the base.
Next grab your paint scrapers and let your creativity run wild. Cut off clay at an angle, tearing at the point of removal to create unique textures that will give your vase character and charm.
Finally, add the finishing touches: carve a small foot at the bottom and an opening at the top.
Allow your vase to dry thoroughly before bisque firing. Once bisque fired, apply your favourite glaze, unloading colour and depth onto your piece.
Then, it’s time for glaze firing, where your vase will undergo its final transformation into a true work of art.
Join us on this artistic odyssey and discover the endless possibilities of hand building pottery.
Follow, like, and share to spread the pottery love! Your support fuels our craftsmanship and allows us to keep these tutorials coming.
join our pottery family today.
