How to Make a Coiled Pot

Coiled pots made by the Anasazi centuries ago remain beautiful even to this day. The Anasazi used the pots for cooking, food storage and for display in their dwellings. You can duplicate these coiled pots at home by following the directions below and using a few art supplies found in any craft store.

Things You'll Need

• Newspaper
• Ceramic clay
• Paint

Instructions

1. Lay newspaper on the work station, arranging the supplies in close proximity. Knead some clay carefully with your hands to make it more pliable. Roll this piece into a long, round rope. Keep the rope approximately the same diameter throughout its length.

2. Set the rope aside. Take additional clay and flatten it with your hands into a flat, round disk measuring about 2 inches in diameter. This disk provides a base for the coiled pot. Set the disk aside.

3. Take the long rope and press its bottom lightly into the base. Begin to spiral the rope from the base. Continue building up the coil until it forms the desired shape. Allow the pot to rest for about one hour to set its design.

4. Wet your fingers and press them carefully against the coils to blend. Try to form a smooth surface.

5. Allow the pot to rest for another hour to begin drying. Preheat the oven to 170 degrees F. Place in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes or until completely dry. If you wish, you can paint the pot.