How to make a fruit Basket Part 1
To begin making a fruit basket, gather a slab of clay. Start by cutting several strips from the longest section of the slab. You will need two long strips, one for the start of the project and one for the end, while the shorter strips can be used in between.
Once you have the strips ready, it’s time to attach them to the top of your mould. Begin by joining the first piece, making sure to score the clay and apply slip for better adhesion. Once the initial piece is securely attached and straight, place the first small piece straight across the centre.
Leave the excess length of the strip on the mould, as it will be necessary for weaving the subsequent strips. To ensure even spacing, use a stick as a measuring tool and create a small mark on the clay where each strip will be woven.
As you weave, alternate the strips by placing one under and the next one over, carefully laying them in place. Make sure to leave enough length at each end to weave and secure the strips together. Press down gently to hold the strips in place, ensuring the clay is adequately moist to prevent cracking.
The example shown demonstrates a large weave, but this is simply to illustrate the weaving process used in creating such baskets. For your first attempt, starting with a larger weave can make the process easier to grasp.
How to make a fruit Basket Part 2
Completing Your Fruit Basket: Final Steps
To begin, trim any excess clay from the basket. Using a roller pin tool, gently push and smooth the clay along the rim. Take your time, focusing on all the joins, and apply light pressure. Continue until the entire surface is covered, and all the joins are neat and secure.
Next, attach the last strip of clay along the edges of the basket. I won’t need to score clay, given the wetness of the clay. But I will apply slip along the edge underneath the strip and align it carefully. Level the strip around the basket to conceal any visible seams.
Now it’s time to add feet to the basket. Cut a small piece of plastic piping, so you can use to cut out your feet, score your feet and attach them with slip. Allow the basket to sit until it’s dry enough to detach easily from the mould. Gently turn it over and let it continue drying.
Finally, once the clay has firmed up, use a knife to carefully remove any rough edges. Start with the most noticeable ones and then go around again to level everything out. When the basket is sufficiently dry, use a sponge to check for sharp bits or imperfections. Go over the surface gently, ensuring a smooth finish.
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Remember not to over-wet the clay during this process, as excessive water absorption can cause it to lose its shape or collapse.
Your fruit basket is now finished, set it aside to dry thoroughly before you bisque fire your piece, once bisque fired you then can put on your favourite glaze, and glaze fire your piece.
Happy potting! 🤗
