How to Open Ceramic Clay

Throwing ceramic pots on a wheel can be a relaxing hobby, not to mention a great way to build arm and hand muscles. After you've centered your clay, you'll have to open it on the wheel. This is an important process that requires time and steady hands.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Push your thumb into the center of the clay to start the opening of your ceramic pot. It's important to go slowly and carefully to ensure the walls stay strong.
2. Keep your hand steady with your thumb inside the center of the clay by using your opposite hand to brace yourself. Gently push your thumb deeper and begin to widen the opening you created.
3. Open the clay further by inserting both hands and gently pushing out. Depending on the pot's size, you may need to do this with tools if your hands won't fit inside.
4. Remove pooling water with a sponge. Sometimes it's helpful to attach a sponge to a stick to reach the bottom of narrow ceramics pieces.
5. Try to open the clay until the bottom is about 1/4 inch thick. The sides should still be thick at this point so that they can be pulled up later.
6. Hold a rib against the outside of the vessel to smooth the outside.
7. Smooth and compress the bottom of the pot with your fingers or a wooden rib tool.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're having trouble estimating the thickness of the bottom, try using a needle tool.

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