How to Make a Ceramic Mug By Hand

You can create your own ceramic mug with a pinch pot technique.

A pinch pot method of construction can be used to create a charming and useful hand made ceramic mug. Access to a kiln is needed for this project. Many schools and pottery galleries will rent out kilns for firing time, which is needed to make the ceramic mug suitable for drinking hot or cold liquids. A set of these charming handmade mugs, packaged with a hot cocoa mixture, would make a great winter holiday or birthday gift.

Things You'll Need

• 1 lb. ceramic clay
• Ceramic glaze
• Paintbrush
• Kiln

Instructions

1. Roll a tennis-ball-sized ball of clay with your hands.

2. Poke your right thumb into the center of the clay ball. Press the clay between your thumb and forefinger to make a mug with a bottom and walls that are 1/4-inch thick.

3. Press the bottom of the mug on a flat surface like a table to create the mug's level and flat bottom.

4. Roll a 4-inch long snake for a mug handle. Attach it to the side of the mug by scoring the ends of the snake and the mug with the toothpick. Smooth the connection site with a little bit of water on your hands.

5. Let the ceramic clay mug dry for 24 hours.

6. Paint the inside and outside of the mug with the ceramic glaze.

7. Fire the completed mug in the kiln.

References

• "Art Fun!"; Kim Solga; 1997
• JH Pottery: Making a Pinch Pot