Things You'll Need:
- Clay
- Water
- Sponge
- Electric potter's wheel
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Step 1
Envision what you want the shape to look like. Picture the pottery piece in three sections: the bottom, the middle and the lip. Note that you can make pots with larger lips than bases, but they're difficult to throw and more likely to destruct. Choose a simple design for your first few pieces until you get used to the process.
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Step 2
Check the wetness of the clay. Apply a little more water with your sponge, if necessary. Make sure the wheel is at medium speed. Insert your left hand into the pot and form the base first by pushing it to fit the picture in your mind. Use your right hand for guidance on the outside and to make sure not to puncture through the wall. Check the uniformity of the curve before moving on.
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Step 3
Form the middle of the pot in the same manner. Without pulling any clay upward, simply work on the shape. Press in with the right hand or push out with the left. Make sure the middle looks the way you want it before moving to the lip.
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Step 4
Guide the clay at the lip downward or upward to fit the picture you had in your head before you began. If the rest of the piece hasn't turned out the way you envisioned, pause for a second and evaluate what you've already done. Form the lip based on your evaluation of how to balance the piece or make it unique.
