How to Create Pottery Handles

Pottery handles can be more than just functional. If crafted carefully, they can be quite beautiful and may set the piece apart from others in a distinct way. It's important to know what each pottery piece will be used for prior to constructing the handles.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Water
• Sharp pencil or needle tool
• Clay

Create Pottery Handles

1. Consider the intended use of the pottery. Size and shape of the handles are determined by use. The handle should be strong enough to lift the piece plus its intended contents.

2. Begin with the ball of clay you purchased. Using your hands, pat the clay into a shape that resembles a carrot or cone.

3. Wet your hands sufficiently. Clay dries quickly when exposed to air and constant handling.

4. Pull along the length of the clay. Using a stroking method, you can begin to move the clay into a handle shape.

5. Spend extra time pulling large or long handles out of the clay mound. These will sometimes require up to 50 pulls!

6. Keep the base of the handle rough. Allow the finished shape to firm up as it hangs over the edge of a table or other flat workspace. Then it will be ready for attaching.

Attach Pottery Handles

7. Check the hardness of your pottery piece. It needs to be tough like leather in order for the handle to properly adhere.

8. Scratch the pottery along the insertion point for the handle. You can use a sharp pencil or needle tool.

9. Press the handle into place using your hands. The scratched surface should create a sort of friction for the handle to grip.

10. Attach the bottom of the handle. Use the same scratch method.

11. Smooth out the rough attachment areas. You can use a wet finger to correct the rough texture.

12. Let the piece dry. When it is has dried nearly all the way, it is ready for glazing and firing in the kiln, or pottery oven.

Tips & Warnings

• White vinegar is a clever trick some potters use to attach handles!
• Slip can also be used to attach handles. Slip is very moistened clay that can be thought of as scraps. Its glue-like texture gives it a great gripping capability, provided it's not overly saturated with water.
• Always store your clay in an airtight container or bag to prevent premature drying prior to use.
• Certain types of clay are easier to work with as you create handles for pottery. Look for one that is pliable yet resistant.