Things You'll Need:
- Block of clay
- Cup of water
- Long flat wire
- Paint brush
- Wooden pointed object
- Pottery wheel (rented or borrowed)
- Pottery kiln (rented or borrowed)
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Step 1
Check out your area for a local pottery wheel and electric kiln that you can use or rent. You can try pottery barns or art centers. Once you found your wheel and kiln that will support your project, you can begin. Purchase your clay and remember to leave it sealed until you are ready to make your creation a reality.
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Step 2
"Wedging" is the term used for kneading the clay continuously until it is soft, malleable and ready to "throw." "Throwing" is shaping pottery on a wheel. Once wedged, make the lump of clay into a ball, and place it on the center of the wheel. At the beginning of the throwing, start from the center of the ball and work your way out. As the wheel spins, flatten and shape the ball into the plate size and shape of your choice and try to keep your hand steady. Do not be disheartened if it becomes misshapen. Just squish it back together and try again.
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Step 3
If desired, use a wooden object to carve designs or give definition. You can use a sludge mixture of clay and water to soften up any cracks or edges. Apply the mixture with a paintbrush.
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Step 4
Use a flattened wire to remove the plate from the wheel and leave it to dry. Once hard, give your piece to your kiln for the first firing, known as the ceramic bisque firing.
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Step 5
Once the plate is fully cooked and cooled, it is time for the glazing. Make sure that any glaze you pick is non-toxic, without lead. First you will apply the under-glaze. Let it dry and then cover it with a colored glaze. Feel free to get as artistic as you wish. Return to the kiln for the second firing which will cement the glaze.
