How to Make Clay Pots

Clay has many purposeful uses. It can be used to make plates, cups and cooking pots, as well as decorative flower pots. Making clay pots is also a terrific family project that your kids will enjoy doing. It gives them something they can take pride in having created. The materials are easy to find and the process is easy to undertake, making it a great option for all those who enjoy creating something unique to their own style and personality.

Things You'll Need

• Air dried or oven fire clay Hard surface Glass surface Hand towel

Instructions

1. Purchase the clay. Clay can be found in all craft stores and will be sold as clay that will either need to be air dried or home-oven fired. If you choose to purchase home-oven fired clay, Sculpey clay is the best clay to purchase.

2. 

   Knead the clay. Kneading your clay not only warms it, making it easier to work with, but also removes any air bubbles that may cause it to collapse when you are forming your pot. As you are kneading it, try keeping it in a ball. This will prevent air pockets from forming. You can also toss it back and forth between your hands or throw it down on a hard surface. Continue this process until the clay is soft enough to work with.

3. Roll out the clay. Once the clay is soft and warm, begin rolling it into a long snake shape. This should be about 12 to 24 inches long, with the diameter being even in its thickness. The diameter will determine how thick the walls of the pot will be. A good goal for the diameter is between 1/4 to 1/2-inch thick. This step is best performed on a glass surface for easier cleaning.

4. Make your base. Taking one end of the snake you just rolled out, begin making a circle. It will resemble a rope coil. Since the size of the circle will be the base of your pot, you need to decide what your use will be for the pot. This will help you create the base accordingly. If your pot collapses during this process, simply knead the clay again to remove the air bubbles and begin again.

5. Smooth your pot. As you continue coiling your clay upwards, building your sides, smooth your pot with your forefinger and thumb as you go. This will help prevent your pot from cracking and falling apart. Also keep in mind that you do not want your sides larger than your base. Otherwise the base will be unable to support the pot.

6. 

   Dry your clay pot. Once you have formed your pot, you need to allow it to dry. If you have purchased air dry clay, you should dampen a hand towel and place it over the clay. This prevents the clay from drying too quickly and cracking. If you have opted for the home-oven dry clay, on average it should be baked at 250 degrees for 30 minutes, depending on the pot you have made. The package should also have directions for you to refer regarding baking times and temperatures.

Resources

• Clay pot craft ideas