To start, ensure your clay is wedged thoroughly, removing air pockets and creating a uniform consistency. Selecting the right clay body is crucial – a harder, drier clay may pose a challenge during centring, but it rewards with enhanced shape retention in the final stages. On the flip side, a softer clay makes centring a breeze but demands a gentle touch in shaping to avoid distortion. I started with 1100 grams of clay for this vase
Begin by firmly anchoring your clay on the wheel head. Gentle pressure with your palms promotes centredness, ensuring a stable foundation for the vase. A relaxed yet focused approach here sets the tone for the entire process. As the wheel spins, engage your body in the movement, locking you arms in sync with you body. Heavy lumps of clay are no match to body weight
While centring, If the clay resists, don’t force it – instead, adjust your pressure and angle. Anchoring your lead hand on the side of the wheel head or into your stomach can help. Once centered, start pulling up the walls, think of coaxing rather than forcing, think of it, as pinching the clay with both hands, pulling it up in a fluid and controlled motion, making sure to lock your elbows in nice and tightly to your body, so that you do not get a wobbly wall.
Then, Use your hands and tools to shape the vase, Consider the unique characteristics of the chosen clay. The final shape is completely up to you, but I started out by bringing the bottom section of the vase out first, before closing in the neck of the vase using both hands.
As you approach the final stages, refine the details with carving tools or textures. Embrace imperfections; they add character to your creation. When satisfied, let the vase dry gradually to avoid cracking (under a plastic bag)
The firing process will bring your masterpiece to life! 🤩
Happy Potting Everyone!!! 🥳🥳
