8 Tips for Getting Started with Hand-Built Ceramics

Hand-building ceramics is a method of creating ceramic objects by shaping clay by hand rather than using a pottery wheel. Some standard hand-building techniques include pinch pottery, coiling, and slab building. Pinch pottery involves pinching and shaping the clay by hand to form a pot or container. Coiling involves creating a spiral of clay and then shaping it into a pot or sculpture. Slab building involves rolling out slabs of clay and then shaping them into a desired form. The clay is then left to dry and is fired in a kiln to harden it and make it suitable for use.

1. Start with good quality clay: Use clay appropriate for the type of pottery you want to create that will withstand the firing process.
2. Practice good hand hygiene: Keep your hands clean and moisturized to prevent cracking in your work.
3. Work on a clean surface: Use a clean work surface, such as a pottery wheel or a wooden board, to prevent impurities from getting into your clay.
4. Use a variety of tools: Use different tools to shape and texture your clay, such as wooden ribs, metal tools, and sponges.
5. Build up your clay gradually: Start with a small amount and add more as you go, making sure to smooth out any seams or lumps.
6. Allow for proper drying time: Let your clay dry completely before moving on to the next step. A good rule of thumb is to let it dry for at least 24 hours.
7. Be mindful of your firing temperature: Different types of clay will require different firing temperatures. Make sure you know the right temperature for your clay, and use a kiln or a pottery oven.
8. Practice, Practice, Practice: Hand-building pottery is a skill that takes time and practice to master. Be patient and experiment with different techniques to improve your skills.

Here at The Pottery Whale, we focus mostly on wheel thrown pieces but have been dipping our toes into the world of hand-building as well. The possibilities are truly endless!