Part 1 – Weaving the Base.
Welcome to Part 1 of our tutorial on how to make a clay fruit basket. Follow these steps to start weaving the base:
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
To begin crafting your clay fruit basket, you’ll need a slab of clay. Start by cutting several strips from the longest section of the slab. You’ll require two long strips, one for the beginning and one for the end, while the shorter strips will fill the gaps in between.
For more on preparing your clay and tools you may need check out our previous blog post “How To Make A Pottery Tumbler Part 1-2“
Step 2: Attach the First Strip
With your strips ready, it’s time to attach them to the top of your mould. Begin by joining the first piece. Ensure you score the clay and apply slip for better adhesion. Once the initial piece is securely attached and aligned, place the first small piece straight across the center.
Step 3: Prepare for Weaving
Leave the excess length of the strip on, as you’ll need it for weaving subsequent strips. To ensure even spacing between the strips, use a stick as a measuring tool and create small marks on the clay where each strip will be woven.
Step 4: Start Weaving
As you begin weaving, alternate the strips by placing one under and the next one over, carefully laying them in place. Be sure to leave enough length at each end to weave and secure the strips together. Gently press down to hold the strips in place, making sure the clay remains adequately moist to prevent cracking.
Note: The example shown demonstrates a large weave, which is used to illustrate the weaving process. For your first attempt, starting with a larger weave can make it easier to grasp the weaving technique.
Welcome to Part 2 of our tutorial on how to make a clay fruit basket. In this section, we’ll complete the basket and provide finishing touches to your project.
Step 1: Refine the Joins
Inspect the joins where the strips intersect and give them a gentle rub down. Since your clay is still moist, you don’t need to worry about scoring it. Align the strips with the edge underneath and ensure they are levelled properly.
Step 2: Add Feet for Stability
Now, let’s add some feet to your fruit basket. Using a bit of piping, cut out small feet. Ensure that you score and use slip carefully to attach them securely to the base. Position them in the opposite direction for added stability.
Step 3: Allow for Drying
Let your fruit basket sit until it dries a little inside. The drying time will vary depending on the humidity in your workspace and the thickness of the clay. Ensure that the clay has firmed up sufficiently before proceeding to pop it off the mould.
Step 4: Clean Up the Edges
Once you feel that the clay is firm enough, use a knife to carefully go around the edges and clean up any rough or uneven sections. Begin by removing the worst of the imperfections, and then proceed to level the entire surface.
And there you have it; you’re finished clay fruit basket! This piece is now ready to first bisque fire, apply glaze and then lastly glaze fire.
Congratulations on completing this two-part tutorial on crafting a clay fruit basket. We hope you enjoyed the creative process and are thrilled with your final result.
Happy potting! 🤗
