Step Two:

Why Won't This Clay Stop Wobbling?
Or, How To Center Clay On The Potter's Wheel.

Wedge the clay and "throw" the clay onto the center of the bat or wheel head. See Step 1 if you need to. If you miss, try again. You can even hold your wetted index finger down on the head while it turns and make a ring to aim for. Remember, if you want to do production work, each piece should weigh the same amount. Do your weighing first. Sets of something, usually have a resemblance to each other, weighing will help.

Give the clay a few drops of water. Yes, I know, water is of the earth, but too much and you will be starting over. The clay is already semi-moist. You only need enough to allow your clay to flow through your hands without dragging. When you feel a drag, add a few more drops.

Plant your elbows firmly on your thighs and pull your upper arms tightly to your upper torso for support. Let the wheel begin to turn slowly. You want to put a firm pressure on both sides of the clay around the bottom. Place your head above the center of the clay to align your vision and center your pressure.

Using your locked thumbs as a pivot, push down with your right hand. Your left hand will control the outside edge. Slide your right hand slowly down from the top to the bottom. This movement will help round the shape into a nice mound shape. Notice that the left arm is pushing in a straight line into the clay and that the top right hand is pushing straight down. Using your arms in a straight line will help keep pressure off your wrists. You do not need high wheel head speed. Slow to moderate will do just fine. Notice how much water spin is showing on the bat head.

Repeat the right hand down-slide several times. With this method you can be centered in just a few moves. Clay centers from the top down, just like us. You know your clay is centered when you can hold your hands lightly around the clay and you do not feel any wobble or movement. When you have it centered, you're ready for the next step. Step Three:

Demonstration, courtesy Christine Winokur, patient photos by Jason Winokur

Wheel used: Creative Industries, Clay Boss, Clay used: New KPS 235 Schoolhouse Buff Stoneware

Step Three:

Am I Making A Donut Or What?
Or, How To Open and Pull Up Clay On The Potter's Wheel

Home