Slab Building: A Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Handmade Ceramic Pieces

 

Slab building is a popular hand-building technique in ceramics that allows you to create sturdy pieces of pottery. Whether you're looking to make plates, bowls, or any other functional or decorative pieces, slab building is a versatile and easy method to get started with.

To start with slab building, you'll need to have your clay ready. This involves wedging it to remove any air pockets and make it ready to work with. Then, you'll need to roll out the clay into flat, even slabs using a rolling pin or slab roller. You can also do it without any tools except your work table. The thickness of your slabs will depend on the desired size and shape of your piece.

 

Once you have your slabs ready, you can begin shaping them into the desired form. You can cut the slabs into various shapes using a pottery cutter or a knife, or even your hands. You can also use slabs to form the sides of your piece by draping them over a mold or using a potter's rib to smooth and shape them.

 

After shaping your slabs into your desired form, it's important to let them dry evenly. This will prevent cracking and ensure a strong and durable final product. You can then fire your piece in a kiln to turn it into a hardened, permanent ceramic piece.

Slab building is a simple and versatile hand-building technique in ceramics that can help you create functional and beautiful pieces of pottery. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned potter, this technique is a great way to unleash your creativity and bring your ideas to life.

Coil Building: A Guide to Hand-Building with Coils in Pottery

 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.

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.

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Pottery Studio Table: Materials, Features, and Reviews

 When it comes to setting up a pottery studio, one of the most important pieces of equipment you will need is a sturdy and reliable table that is not going to slide around or bounce as you wedge. Not only will this table provide a solid surface for you to work on, but it will also need to be able to withstand the weight and pressure of wedging clay.
There are many different types of tables available for pottery studios, each with their own unique set of features and benefits. In this guide, we will take a look at some of the most popular materials and features to consider when choosing the best table for your pottery studio.

Wooden tables (the ones I use in my studio), are a popular choice for many pottery studios due to its natural look and warmth. Some of the pros of using a wooden table for pottery include:

• Wood is a durable and strong material that can withstand the weight and pressure of wedging clay.
• Wooden tables often have a rustic and charming aesthetic that can add to the overall atmosphere of a pottery studio.
• They can be easily customized to fit the specific needs and style of the artist.

However, there are also some cons to consider when using a wooden table for pottery:

• Wooden tables can be prone to warping and staining because they are left unsealed to work with clay.
  
• They may require more maintenance than other materials in terms of cleaning.
• They may not be as fire resistant as other materials, which is important for pottery studios that use kilns.

Overall, a wooden table can be a great choice for a pottery studio, but it's important to weigh the pros and cons and take the necessary steps to properly maintain and care for the table.

 

My wooden table, inside of my studio.

A plaster table is a less common option for pottery studios, but it does have some advantages over other materials. Some of the pros of using a plaster table for pottery include:

• Plaster is a porous material that can absorb water, making it a good option for potters who like to keep their clay moist.
• It can provide a smooth and stable surface that is ideal for shaping and forming pottery.
• Plaster tables are heat-resistant, which makes them suitable for use with kilns.

However, there are also some cons to consider when using a plaster table for pottery:

• Plaster tables can be quite heavy and difficult to move around, which can be a drawback for some potters.
• They can be prone to cracking or chipping over time if not properly maintained.
• Plaster tables may not be as durable as other materials like wood or metal.

Overall, a plaster table can be a good option for pottery studios that are looking for a smooth and stable surface for shaping and forming pottery, but it's important to be aware of its cons and take the necessary steps to properly maintain and care for the table.

 

If you are just starting out, have limited space, and want to save some money, a wedging table is an extra expense, but there are simple and inexpensive ways to create the perfect wedging surface for your studio. The surface should have some grip and be absorbent, but not too much to avoid drying out the clay.

Consider using a stretched piece of canvas over an old table or dresser. Use an upholstery staple gun to attach canvas to the table surface.

Or repurpose an old baby changing table by filling it with plaster or concrete.

 

 Additionally, it's worth considering the height of the table. A table that is too low can cause strain on the back and shoulders, while a table that is too high can make it difficult to reach the clay. Ideally, the table should be at a height that allows you to comfortably work without straining your body.
When it comes to features, some tables come with built-in storage, such as shelves or drawers, which can be very convenient for storing tools and supplies. Other tables may have adjustable legs, allowing you to customize the height to suit your needs.
In conclusion, when choosing the best table for your pottery studio, it's important to consider the material, size, shape, height, and features that will best suit your needs. With so many options available, it's important to do your research and read reviews from other potters before making your final decision.

 

What is Handbuilding in Ceramics? Techniques and Tips for Creating Unique Pieces

Handbuilding in ceramics is an age-old technique that involves shaping clay into desired forms without the use of a pottery wheel. This method of ceramic creation allows for a wide range of possibilities, from small trinkets to large sculptures. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, handbuilding in ceramics is a fun and rewarding experience that can result in truly unique and beautiful pieces.

One of the most popular handbuilding techniques is pinch pottery. This method involves using your fingers to "pinch" the clay into shape, creating a variety of forms such as bowls, cups, and vases. Another popular technique is coiling, which involves building up layers of clay in a spiral shape to create larger pieces such as jars and bottles.

Coil built vase

Another technique that can be used in handbuilding is slab building. This method involves rolling out the clay into flat slabs and then cutting, shaping, and joining the slabs together to create a variety of forms. This technique can be used to create functional items such as plates and platters, or sculptural pieces such as wall hangings.

Handmade ceramic slab built button

When handbuilding in ceramics, it's important to consider the properties of the clay you're using. Different types of clay have different properties, such as porosity and shrinkage rate, which can affect the final outcome of your piece. It's also important to consider the drying and firing process, as certain clay bodies and glazes may require specific temperature ranges and firing times.

To achieve the best results when handbuilding in ceramics, it's also important to invest in quality tools and materials. Basic tools such as wooden modeling tools, rib tools, and wire clay cutters will come in handy when shaping and refining your pieces. Additionally, you should invest in a good-quality clay extruder and a slab roller to make your work more efficient.

In conclusion, handbuilding in ceramics is a versatile and rewarding technique that allows you to create unique and beautiful pieces. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced ceramic artist, this method is a great way to explore your creativity and bring your ideas to life. With the right tools, techniques, and understanding of the properties of clay, you can create truly stunning pieces that will last a lifetime.