Potters can use many tools on the market to add texture and design to their pottery, but sometimes all you need is what is right in front of you. At The Pottery Whale, I like to use a combination of store-bought stamps and make my own out of clay. This is a great way to use up reclaimed clay too!
- Start with a simple design: Choose a design that is simple and easy to carve, such as a geometric shape or a simple illustration.
- Use a carving tool: Use a carving tool, such as a linoleum cutter or a clay modeling tool, to carve your design into the stamp. (Rummage through your junk drawer and see what things you have that would make unique shapes or marks)
- Use a soft material: Use a soft material such as an eraser or a block of clay as your stamp.
- Keep it small: Keep your stamp small, around 2-3 inches, making it easy to handle and control while stamping.
- Carve in reverse: Remember that your stamp will be used in reverse, so make sure to carve your design in reverse, so it appears correctly on your pottery.
- Test your stamp: Before using your stamp, test it on a small piece of clay to ensure that the design is clear and legible.
- Clean and store properly: Make sure to clean your stamp after every use and store it properly to prevent it from drying out or cracking.
- Experiment with different techniques: try different ways of applying the stamp, such as rolling it, pressing it, or dragging it across the clay surface.
Remember, if you do not fire your clay stamps, they will remain fragile as greenware. You can use greenware stamps, but they will become sturdier and last longer if you bisque-fire them.Â
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