How to Wedge Clay to Throw on the Wheel

Wedging clay is the first step in preparing it to throw on the wheel. This method of wedging clay creates a cone-shaped piece of clay that is perfect for throwing on the wheel and even hand building if you choice. In particular, this method of method of wedging clay is perfect for wheel throwing because it creates a rounded bottom that allows the clay to stick the wheel head once thrown onto the wheel.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Clay
• Wire cutter
• Canvas-covered work table
• Scale

1. Cut off a slice of clay from the larger block of clay using your wire tool.

2. Weigh the clay on your scale. It is best to start with a 2 to 3 pound piece of clay while learning this method of wedging the clay for the wheel. You can add more clay as you become accustomed to the coil method.

3. Place the clay on your canvas covered table. The canvas will keep the clay from sticking to the surface.

4. Place your left hand on its side right at the side of the clay. Rest you hand on the left side of the pinky and palm.

5. Place your right hand on top of the clay. Use your right hand to press the clay down in a short straight motion. You left hand adds not pressure, only support.

6. Pick the clay up, turn it towards you slightly, and then press down again with your right hand.

7. Continue pressing the clay with your right hand, picking the clay up, turning it towards you, and then pressing again.

8. Form a cone shape, with a larger coil at the left side in the palm of you left hand. The right side will be a smaller tip.

9. Focus on simply picking up the clay, turning it towards on this right tip, and pressing down again. Short motions slightly away form the body are best. Continue this for about 3 to 5 minutes until the clay is formed into the cone.

10. Pick the cone of clay up and use the palms of your hand to gently pat down any lines you can see on the coil on the bottom.

11. Pick the clay up and place the larger end on the table. Hold onto the clay with both hands.

12. Gently roll the base of the clay cone on the table to round it out. This will create the perfect rounded bottom to throw onto the wheel. Cover the clay with plastic until you are ready to throw it on the wheel.

Tips & Warnings

• As you work wedging larger blocks of clay, always press down only the amount of clay that will fit into your palm. As you pick the clay up and turn it towards you the rest of the clay will wedge in over time.
• Wedge only with short straight motions towards the table slightly away from your. Lean into the clay with your body to save arm strength