Wheel-throwing pottery refers to the procedure of forming clay vessels on the potter’s wheel through the combination of centrifugal force and relative control by the potter. The clay gets inclined and stretches outwards as the potter spins the wheel. This article discusses the inspiration, methods, and tips you can follow for throwing pottery on wheels. So, get to reading now!
The Inspiration Behind the Development of Wheel-Throwing Pottery
Do you know how this method of throwing pottery on wheels existed? Throughout history, pottery has been an integral part of the survival of the common masses. Crafting clay objects became a prominent source of livelihood for many. Pottery also holds uncompromising significance in the world’s cultural and artistic lineage, providing the coming generations with a rich source of inspiration.
Although pottery was introduced as a form of art in the late 18,000 BC, this style of pottery came into existence only around the 19th century. This unique form of pottery was first practiced by the ancient Greek potters who followed the method of throwing pottery vessels on the potter’s wheel to craft various clay creations.
Ancient Greek potters used this pottery procedure to form vases and clay baskets. With time, this form of pottery has undergone a significant revolution. As a result, the overall procedure has become more refined, and now it is utilized to craft various creations of pottery, such as mugs, bowls, etc., and not just vases. Therefore, today, you can witness a variety of throwing pottery creations all around the world, utterly worthy of appreciation!
Cutting-Edge Wheel Throwing Method
Here’s how you can create clay creations following the cutting-edge wheel-throwing pottery method:
- Gather Tools
Before you proceed with the technique, you will need to gather the tools essential for crafting this style of pottery. The tools you will require to assemble are bats, a bowl of water, a sponge, a rib, workable clay, a wire tool, trimming tools, a pottery wheel, a wooden knife, a pin tool, and towels.
- Seal the Clay to the Bat
After gathering all the equipment, start by securing the bat on the pottery wheel. Now, use your force and slam a clay ball into the bat’s center. Next, spin the wheel and gradually secure the clay ball to the bat using your fingers.
- Center Your Clay
After securing the clay to the bat, it is time to position it at the center of the wheel. To bring the clay to the center of the wheel, lock your elbows with your knees and increase the speed of your wheel to around 80%. Then, with your hands, push the clay into a cone shape. Also, use your other hand to push down on the clay simultaneously so it does not protrude much. Follow this procedure until your clay is brought to the center.
- Create an Opening
Now, you have to create an opening in the clay. Use your two fingers to firmly create an opening by exerting pressure in the middle of the clay dough. Once you have created an opening, use your fingers to deepen it to the bottom according to your requirements. However, keep adding water throughout this procedure and stop right when your fingers are about to touch the wheel head.
- Shape Your Pottery Creation
Once you have created a proper opening in the clay, you can shape it. To shape your clay, slow down the speed of the pottery wheel and use your index fingers to smoothen the exteriors of the clay. Use the sponge to eliminate ridges, lumps, or excessive water in the clay. Now, you can gradually use your fingers to impart the clay with the desired height and width.
- Add Final Touches
Finally, when you are done, wipe away all the excess moisture with a sponge. Also, use a wooden rib to smooth out the clay surfaces evenly. Once your creation is hard, you can add surface designs to it. You can use Steel Circular Clay Hole Cutters to create distinctive designs if you desire!
Ace Your Pottery Game with These 4 Best Throwing Tips
Do you want to master the art of throwing pottery? Specific revolutionizing tips can help you out! Check out the best tips for improving your wheel-throwing pottery creations:
1. Select the Right Clay
The first tip is to select the correct type of clay for your pottery. Since multiple varieties of clay are available, each with distinct properties and features, it is essential to make the right choice to obtain optimal results for your creations. Choose a clay with adequate consistency, neither too soft nor too hard. Otherwise, it will be difficult for you to work with. These are the most popular clays to work with while wheel throwing:
| Type of Clays | Properties |
| Stoneware clay | Highly dense and durable |
| Earthenware | Has catalytic abilities and low permeability |
| Porcelain | Resistant to heat and chemically inert |
2. Use the Appropriate Technique
Using the appropriate technique is the key to creating the most beautiful throwing pottery creations. Stick to a solid brace position, allowing your elbows to brace against something. Ensure that you do not bend down but raise your pottery wheel a few inches above the ground to provide yourself with a better position to start working.
3. Keep Practicing
One of the most effective tips you can follow to master this form of pottery is to keep practicing. Adequate practice is the key to unlocking the best creations with time! If you find yourself creating pottery that is not very impressive, do not be upset. Instead, stick to practicing the method repeatedly for a while. It will help you understand your flaws better and deliver better results.
4. Use Adequate Quantities of Water
Using the appropriate quantity of water is one of the most essential tips for achieving better results. When working with clay to create wheel-thrown pottery, ensure that you use a moderate quantity of water to retain the proper consistency of the clay. Too much water can make the clay runny, and using minimal amounts can make the clay hard. So, always use moderate water to make the clay workable.
Final Words
Follow the method and tips in this article to make the best creations following the cutting-edge wheel-throwing pottery technique. You can also use specialized colors to make your pottery creations more appealing!
