Ceramic plates thrown on the potter's wheel are simple projects anyone can learn. Find out how to start throwing plates with expert tips in this free ceramics video series.
There are 16 videos in this series:
Throwing ceramic plates is similar to throwing other forms on the potter's wheel, though plates are more horizontal in shape. Learn about throwing plates on the wheel with expert tips from a master potter in this free ceramics video.
Wedging clay for a ceramic plate will ensure a consistent clay body without air bubbles. Learn how to wedge clay with expert tips from a master potter in this free ceramics video.
Placing clay in the center of the potter's wheel for a ceramic plate will make the throwing process easier. Learn how to place clay on the wheel with expert tips from a master potter in this free ceramics video.
To center the clay for a ceramic plate, use equal pressure with both hands while the clay spins on the wheel. Learn how to center clay on the wheel with expert tips from a master potter in this free ceramics video.
Flatten the clay for a ceramic plate to an even thickness by pushing clay from the center outward. Learn how to flatten out clay on the potter's wheel with expert tips from a master potter in this free ceramics video.
Compressing clay for a ceramic plate will prevent S cracks that can occur during firing. Learn how to compress clay with expert tips from a master potter in this free ceramics video.
When creating a ceramic plate lip, lubricate the clay generously with water. Learn how to create a lip for a plate with expert tips from a master potter in this free ceramics video.
Remove water from the inside of a ceramic plate to strengthen the durability of the finished piece. Learn about water removal during the throwing process with expert tips from a master potter in this free ceramics video.
Extend the lip of a ceramic plate by pulling clay outward and upward. Learn how to extend the plate lip with expert tips from a master potter in this free ceramics video.
Smooth out the interior surface of a ceramic plate using a flat rib tool. Learn how to smooth out the surface of the clay with expert tips from a master potter in this free ceramics video.
Shape the lip of a ceramic plate by supporting it underneath with one hand and shaping the top with the other hand. Learn how to shape a plate lip with expert tips from a master potter in this free ceramics video.
Round out the edges of a ceramic plate to prevent chipping and sharp edges. Learn how to round out plate edges with expert tips from a master potter in this free ceramics video.
Trim the base of a ceramic plate using a wooden potter's knife to remove excess clay. Learn how to trim a clay plate with expert tips from a master potter in this free ceramics video.
Measuring a ceramic plate before it dries will enable you to throw a similar sized plate for a set. Learn how to measure a ceramic plate with expert tips from a master potter in this free ceramics video.
Measuring a ceramic plate lip will aid in creating multiples for a set. Learn how to measure a plate lip with expert tips from a master potter in this free ceramics video.
Dismount a ceramic plate from the potter's wheel using a wire tool that slides underneath the piece. Learn how to dismount a plate from the wheel with expert tips from a master potter in this free ceramics video.
Ceramics are art works made out of clay bodies that harden with the application of heat. Originating in Chinese, Cretan, Greek, Roman, and Mayan cultures, ceramics have a long history that dates back to the third millennium BC. Pottery was used to create food and water jars, decorative bowls, sacred urns, and religious idols. Potters most traditionally use their hands, but several tools have been developed to aid in the ceramic making process, including the potter's wheel. Ceramics range from functional vessels to decorative sculptures, and remain both a long loved craft as well as a fine art. Making ceramic plates on the potter's wheel requires mastered techniques to prevent cracking. In this free ceramics video series, a master potter demonstrates how to create handmade ceramic plates. Learn how to prepare your clay, center the clay on the potter's wheel, and flatten it to an even thickness. Find out how to lift up a lip for the plate, as well as how to smooth and compress the clay surface to prevent S cracks during the firing process. Handmade plates are simple to make as a set if you take the proper measurements as you go. Use this guide to brush up basic pottery techniques or to learn a new craft.
Jeff Zamek Jeff Zamek started making pots 36 years ago while working toward a business degree at Monmouth University. After which he went on to obtain B.F.A. and M.F.A. degrees in ceramics from Alfred University, College of Ceramics in New York state. He then taught ceramics at Simon's Rock College, Jersey City State College, and Keane College. Twenty five years ago he started his own ceramics consulting firm and has published, "What Every Potter Should Know" and "Safety in the Ceramics Studio." His articles on ceramics are currently published in Ceramics Monthly, Clay Times, Studio Potter, Ceramic Technical, Pottery Production Practices and Pottery Making Illustrated.dkdk
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