How to Use a Potter's Wheel to Sculpt Clay
A potter's wheel is a type of turntable machine that a potter uses to form pottery from wet clay. The wet clay is placed on the center of the turntable. The wheel-head is then rotated by means of foot power or a variable speed electric motor. As the wheel rotates, the clay is squeezed and pulled upward to form a hollow space. Using a potter's wheel to sculpt clay can be done with practice and the right technique.
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Instructions
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Sit in a comfortable position at the potter's wheel. Both your forearms should be pressed against your thighs.
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Place the clay in the center of the potter's wheel, then pat it into a cone shape using your hands.
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Turn on the switch to start the wheel slowly. Pat the clay into a cone shape so that it sticks to the center of the wheel.
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Turn up the speed on your machine to a moderate pace. Wet your hands in a container of water, then wet the clay.
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Push downward on the clay into the center of the potter's wheel. Press down with your right hand while using your left hand as a guide.
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Place both your palms together and open them in a V shape. Use your palms to guide the clay in an upward position.
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Press down in the center of the clay with your thumb, while using the other hand to keep your thumb steady. Widen the center using both hands and continue to sculpt the clay into the shape that you want.
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References
- Photo Credit pottery image by Avesun from Fotolia.com
