How to Make a Clay Spout

Make a clay spout for your next pottery project.

Clay pots have been used for centuries. While most clay objects are now made in factories, working with clay is used by some as an artistic expression and way to relax. Once you have mastered basic concepts in pottery making, you may want to move on to slightly more complicated items. Adding a clay spout to a pitcher can take practice but in time can be done with ease. Make a pitcher with a clay spout to use in your own home or to give as a gift.

Things You'll Need

• Drywall knife
• Knife
• Thick slurry
• Wet clay pot
• Sculpting tool
• Wet sponge

Instructions

1. Lay the slab of clay flat on a table. Pull the drywall knife over the slab of clay in various directions on both sides of the clay to smooth and flatten it.

2. Draw the shape of a half-oval with a knife and cut it out of the clay. The bottom of the oval should have a width of about 6 inches.

3. Fold the half-oval in slightly along the bottom edges to form the shape of a spout. Hold the spout up to the top of the side of the clay pot and cut a hole in the side of the pot with a knife. The hole should be the same size as the spout.

4. Score the end of the spout and the pot where the two will be joined. Glue the spout to the clay pot with thick slurry. Smooth out the joint with a sculpting tool.

5. Pinch and gently smooth the lip of the spout with wet fingers. This will round the edge of the spout.

6. Hold your left hand gently around the spout. With a wet sponge in your right hand, smooth the inside of the spout.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure the spout is long enough so that the top of the spout is slightly higher than the top of the pot.