How to Make a Clay Teapot Spout

Teapot spouts can be long and tapered or short and stubby.

Clay teapots are typically made in four pieces. The pieces include the body, handle, lid and spout. The spout is one of the easiest parts of the teapot to make. Teapot spouts come in a variety of sizes and shapes. While it doesn't take a long time to create a teapot spout, it's place on the teapot, and the final look you choose, is crucial to the finished product.

Things You'll Need

• Clay
• Utility knife
• Wooden dowel

Instructions

1. Roll out a large enough piece of clay to make a sturdy spout. The amount depends on the size of your overall teapot and the length and thickness you want your spout to be. Roll the clay out until it is thicker on the end that attaches to the teapot and more narrow on the end that pours.

2. Cut each end of the clay -- using a utility knife -- so they are even. Begin working a hole through the center of the clay with a wooden dowel. Use a dowel no more than 1/2 inch diameter. This ensures the hole won't be too large.

3. Run the dowel through the spout several times to give it a smooth bore; use your hands to bend the spout to the shape you desire. Leave the spout straight until about 4 or 5 inches from the pouring end. Bend the spout slightly at this point. Press your fingers gently around the bend in the clay to ensure you don't block the hole you've pushed through the center.

4. Attach the finished spout to the teapot by pressing it against the teapot and dabbing water around the seam to smooth and seal it. Add a little fluted tip to the spout by gently bending the upper and lower end of the pouring end of the spout.

References

• Pottery Magic: Clay Teapots