Coil building, one of my favourite creation methods, is a hand-building technique that involves rolling out long, thin ropes of clay and then coiling them together to form a sturdy base for your pottery piece. This technique is simple, versatile, and perfect for beginners and experienced potters alike. In this article, we will explore the basics of coil building and help you create beautiful and functional pieces.
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| Coil Built Bottle |
The first step in coil building is to prepare your clay. This can be done by wedging, which involves kneading and compressing the clay to remove any air pockets and ensure it's ready to work with. Once the clay is ready, roll it out into long, thin coils that are uniform in size.
Next, you'll begin coiling the clay by placing the first coil on a flat surface and then adding subsequent coils on top, pressing them firmly together to ensure a strong bond. You can continue coiling until the base of your pottery piece is the desired size and thickness.
Once the base is complete, you can use your hands and tools to shape and smooth the surface of the clay. You can also add texture or decorative elements by pressing or carving into the surface.
When working with coils, it's important to keep the pieces moist and to allow them to dry evenly. This will help prevent cracking and ensure a strong and durable final product.
Coil building is a simple and effective hand-building technique that is perfect for creating beautiful and functional pottery pieces. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced potter, coil building is a fun and rewarding process that allows you to bring your creative vision to life. With the right tools, materials, and a bit of patience, you'll be able to create stunning pieces that will be treasured for years to come.
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