How to Centre Clay and Throw Pots on the Pottery Wheel

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide on centering clay and throwing pots on a pottery wheel. Centering is a crucial skill for any potter, as it sets the foundation for creating well-formed pots. This guide will walk you through the steps to properly center clay, open it up, pull up the walls, and clean up your pot for lifting. Each section includes practical tips and techniques to enhance your pottery skills.

Chapter 1: Importance of Wedging Clay

• Wedging Process: This technique removes air pockets and ensures an even texture in the clay. If you need detailed instructions on wedging, refer to a specific tutorial.
• Recommended Weight: Start with a lump of clay that is manageable for your skill level. A common starting weight is around 1 pound.
• Preparation: Create a rounded bottom on your clay to avoid trapping air when placing it on the wheel head.

Chapter 2: How to Centre the Clay

• Placement: Firmly slam the clay lump onto the wheel head, ensuring it is as central as possible.
• Surface Conditions: Ensure both the wheel head and the clay are dry to prevent slipping.
• Applying Pressure:
  • Use your left arm to stabilize by resting your forearm on the wheel tray.
  • Push downward with your right hand directly over the center of the clay.
  • Squeeze the clay with your fingers, especially your little finger, to create a seal against the wheel head.
• Observation: Watch for wobbles in your fingertips as an indicator of centering issues. Squeeze inward to eliminate any wobble.

Chapter 3: How to Cone the Clay Up and Down

• Creating a Cone:
  • Form the clay into a rounded top.
  • Apply even pressure from both sides to shape it into a cone.
• Squashing Down: Instead of pushing directly down, lean the cone slightly and push downwards at an angle to gather thickness at the base.
• Repetition: Cone the clay up and down several times until the shape is smooth and even.

Chapter 4: Removing the Gritty Surface

• Surface Texture: If the clay feels gritty, scrape away the outer layer before continuing to center.
• Time Consideration: Aim to center the clay within 10 to 20 seconds, depending on its firmness.

Chapter 5: Opening Up the Lump of Clay

• Finding the Center: Glide a finger across the top to locate the center.
• Using Fingers: Insert your thumb and index finger to push down gently to achieve a base thickness of about 4-5 mm.
• Compression: Compress the bottom with your fingers to prevent cracking as the clay dries.

Chapter 6: Pulling Up the Walls of the Pot

• Preparation: Wet the surfaces before starting.
• Hand Positioning: Place fingers on the inside and a knuckle on the outside of the pot.
• Pinching Technique: Squeeze and gently pull the clay upward, maintaining a consistent movement to avoid creating thinner areas.
• Stability: Keep your hands connected throughout the process for better control.

Chapter 7: Using a Sponge to Throw

• Sponge Use: If walls dry out too quickly, use a thin sponge to maintain moisture without losing tactile feedback.
• Technique: Soak the sponge and apply it similarly to how you would use your knuckle.

Chapter 8: Cleaning Up the Pot for Lifting

• Trimming the Base: Use a blunted metal trimming tool to remove excess clay without deforming the pot.
• Scraping Slip: Clean the walls with a metal, rubber, or wooden tool, ensuring not to dig into the clay.
• Rim Considerations: Shape the rim for ergonomic use, ensuring it is not too thick or sharp.

Chapter 9: Cutting Off an Uneven Rim

• Fixing Undulations: Use a potter's needle to clear uneven rims, then reshape as needed.
• Final Touches: Ensure the rim is beveled and softened for a comfortable finish.

Chapter 10: How to Remove the Pot from the Wheel

• Wire Technique: Slide a taut wire under the pot for a clean cut.
• Hand Placement: Lift from the base, avoiding pressure on the rim to maintain structural integrity.
• Movement: Keep the pot steady while moving it to avoid deformation.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of centering and throwing pots on a wheel takes practice and patience. Remember that each step is crucial for creating well-formed pottery. Don’t hesitate to explore different techniques and watch various tutorials to find what works best for you. Happy throwing!