Wheel-throwing is an ancient and mesmerizing pottery technique used by potters to create beautiful and functional clay creations. It involves shaping clay on a spinning wheel while using hands, fingers, and various tools to manipulate the clay into the desired form. This article will delve into the world of wheel-throwing, providing essential techniques and tips for aspiring potters looking to master this captivating craft.
The Basics
Before diving into specific techniques, it’s important to understand the basic process of wheel-throwing. Potters begin by preparing their clay, often through a process called wedging, which removes air bubbles and ensures even consistency. The clay is then centered on the potter’s wheel, which can be powered manually or electrically. As the wheel spins, the potter uses their hands and tools to shape the clay into cylindrical forms that can be further manipulated into bowls, vases, plates, and more.
Centering
Centering the clay on the wheel is an essential first step in wheel-throwing. The goal is to create a smooth, symmetrical mound of clay that can be easily shaped into various forms. To center the clay:
- Place a well-wedged ball of clay directly in the center of the wheel.
- Start the wheel spinning at a medium speed.
- With wet hands, apply steady pressure to the sides and top of the clay as it spins.
- Continue applying pressure until the clay becomes symmetrical and no longer wobbles on the wheel.
Opening
Once the clay is centered, opening creates a hollow interior by pushing down into the center of the clay mound with thumbs or fingers. To open:
- Slowly press down into the center of the clay while maintaining consistent pressure on the sides.
- Stop before reaching the bottom to maintain a solid base for your creation.
- Use your fingers or a rib tool to smooth and compress the base of the pot.
Pulling
Pulling is the process of lifting and thinning the walls of the clay to create your desired shape. To pull:
- Wet your hands and place them on either side of the clay at the base.
- Apply gentle pressure inward with your outer hand and upward with your inner hand.
- Move your hands up the clay together, maintaining consistent pressure to create an even wall thickness.
- Repeat this process as needed to achieve the desired height and shape.
Shaping
With the basic form created, potters can use various tools and techniques to further shape their creation. Some popular shaping techniques include:
- Collaring: Using fingers or tools to narrow the top opening of a pot, creating a more defined neck or rim.
- Belly: Expanding the middle section of a pot outward by applying gentle pressure from inside the pot while supporting the outside with a sponge or rib.
- S-curve: Creating a smooth curve in profile by gently pushing out from inside the pot near the base and upper sections, while maintaining a narrower waist.
Trimming
After a thrown piece has dried to a leather-hard state, it’s time for trimming. This process removes excess clay from the bottom and refines the overall shape of the creation. To trim:
- Place the leather-hard piece back on the wheel, using small pieces of clay to secure it in place.
- Use a trimming tool, such as a loop or ribbon tool, to carefully shave away excess clay from the bottom and sides of the piece.
- Smooth any rough edges with a sponge or burnishing tool.
Finishing Touches
Once trimmed, potters can add decorative elements like handles, spouts, or carved designs before allowing their piece to dry completely. After drying, creations are typically bisque-fired, glazed, and fired again to create a finished, functional piece of pottery.
Mastering wheel-throwing takes time and practice, but with dedication and the right techniques, potters can create stunning clay creations that showcase their unique artistic vision.
