Ever seen a lump of clay transform into a graceful vase? That’s the magic of throwing! From centering to pulling, each move’s an art dance on the wheel.
What Are They?
- Wedging. Knead the clay to remove air bubbles and achieve a uniform consistency.
- Centering. Place the clay on the wheel and spin it, using hands to shape the clay into a symmetrical mound.
- Opening. Push down in the center of the mound to create an opening while the wheel spins.
- Pulling. Using fingers, pull the clay upwards and outwards to form walls.
- Shaping. Refine the shape using hands, ribs, or other tools to achieve the desired form.
- Trimming. Remove excess clay from the base.
- Cutting. Using a wire tool, cut the finished piece off the wheel.
- Drying. Allow the piece to air-dry until it’s leather-hard.
- Bisque Firing. First firing in a kiln to harden the clay.
- Glazing. Apply glaze for color and finish.
- Glaze Firing. Second firing to set the glaze and vitrify the piece.
1 Wedging: The Unsung Hero of Pottery
We’re diving into the tactile world of wedging, which is basically the “warm-up” exercise in the pottery world, ensuring our clay is in its prime condition to strut its stuff on the wheel. This will get your blood flowing and your heart pumping, ha!
1. Why do it? Wedging is like giving clay a good ol’ massage. It’s a method to:
- Eliminate air bubbles (those sneaky devils can cause cracks during firing).
- Homogenize the clay, ensuring even moisture and consistency.
- Reclaim different bits of clay, merging them into a cohesive whole.
2. Techniques of the Trade. There are a few methods to master the art of wedging:
- Spiral (a.k.a Rams Head). This technique looks a tad like kneading dough, where the clay is pressed down and forward using the heels of your hands, and then rotated. This action spirals the clay, creating that distinctive ram’s head shape.
- Cut and Slam. As dramatic as it sounds, this technique involves cutting clay in half and slamming the pieces together. It’s excellent for mixing different clay types or removing persistent air pockets.
- Stack and Slam. A variation of cut and slam, but instead of cutting the clay in half, you slice it into multiple thin layers, stack them, and then give them a good slam! This is my favorite, ha!
3. The Physicality. Wedging can be a workout! Proper posture is crucial. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, use your body weight to push the clay down and forward, and engage your core. This isn’t just about arm strength; it’s a full-body motion. My tip: watch out for your back, do not strain yourself and injure your back.
4. Knowing When It’s Done. You’re aiming for clay that feels consistent with no hard or soft spots and no visible air pockets. When you cut your clay in half, the cross-section should be smooth without any bubbles. Also, after consistent wedging, the clay’s spiral pattern becomes visible, which is often a sign it’s ready to go!
In essence, you can think of wedging like preparing a gourmet meal. If you don’t prep your ingredients right (in this case, the clay), no matter how fancy your cooking techniques (or throwing skills) are, the end product might not be what you’re aiming for. So, give your clay the pampering it deserves, and it’ll thank you by becoming a stunning piece of pottery!
2 Centering: The Heartbeat of Pottery Throwing
Centering is like the magical dance between hands and clay, setting the stage for the masterpiece that’s about to unfold. Let’s waltz through the fascinating realm of centering.
1. The Essence of Centering
At its core, centering is about bringing the clay into perfect alignment with the center of the wheel. Think of it as aligning the North Star in the vast pottery galaxy. When the clay is off-center, even slightly, it wobbles, and inconsistencies arise, which can make the throwing process challenging and the final piece less than perfect.
2. Why Is Centering SO Important?
- It ensures an even thickness throughout your pottery piece.
- It minimizes wobbles and irregularities when shaping.
- It sets the foundation for successful lifts and pulls.
3. Centering Techniques: The Dance Moves
- Coning: Pull the clay upwards into a cone shape, then press it back down. This not only helps in aligning the clay but also smoothens out any inconsistencies in moisture and texture.
- Palm Technique: With one hand (usually the left for right-handed potters), press the heel of your palm against the side of the clay while using the other hand on top to press downwards.
4. The Feels & Tells
- Visual Check: The clay should appear stationary with no wobbles.
- Touch: Running a wet fingertip on the top surface should feel smooth, without any jerks.
5. My Tips & Tricks
- Elbow Leverage. Rest your elbows on your thighs or the splash pan of the wheel to ensure stability and strength.
- Consistent Pressure. Too little, and the clay won’t move. Too much, and you might end up with a flat pancake or even a hole in your clay.
- Water is Your Friend. A well-lubricated clay surface reduces friction, making centering more manageable. An yes you will be splattered with clay, ha!
6. The Bigger Picture
Mastering centering is like learning to balance on a bicycle. Initially, it may seem elusive, but with practice, it becomes an ingrained muscle memory. And just like every ride starts with finding that balance, every pottery masterpiece starts with impeccable centering.
I say if pottery is a symphony, centering is the opening note. It sets the tone, creates harmony, and ensures a flawless performance from start to finish.
3 Opening: Diving Deep into the Clay Universe
After mastering the centering, now comes the moment where we’re about to plunge into the clay’s heart. The art of opening. It’s like opening a portal to the universe of possibilities that your pottery piece can evolve into. Like a black hole in the universe?
1. The Essence of Opening
Opening is the act of creating an initial hollow in the centered clay. This hollow will set the foundation for the vessel’s interior, be it a bowl, a vase, or any other pottery masterpiece.
2. Why is Opening Crucial?
- Defines the Base. The depth of the opening determines the thickness of the pot’s base.
- Sets the Path. The initial opening guides the subsequent widening and shaping of the vessel.
3. The Artful Techniques
- Thumb Press Technique. For smaller clay amounts, using the thumb to press down in the clay’s center can create a beautiful opening.
- Two-Finger Technique. With larger clay amounts, position two fingers side by side and press downwards, offering more stability and ensuring an even spread.
- Drawback & Spiral. As you press down, gently pull the fingers towards you, creating a spiral opening.
4. The Tactile Adventure
- Depth Check. Occasionally, stop and check the base’s thickness using a needle tool or your finger. A common beginner’s error is opening too deep, risking puncturing the base.
- Sensation.As fingers dive in, the clay should feel even and consistent, indicating a well-centered and smoothly opened piece.
5. My Golden Nuggets of Wisdom
- Steady Pace. While it’s tempting to dive in quickly, a slow and consistent pressure ensures an even opening without sudden dips.
- Moisture Magic. Keep the clay well lubricated. Too dry, and there’s friction. Too wet, and you might lose control.
- Safety Check. Ensure your opening doesn’t go too near the wheel head, which would make it challenging to shape the clay later.
6. The Cosmic Perspective
Imagine opening as the Big Bang of your pottery universe. It’s where everything starts. The beginning of forming the cosmos of your ceramic creation. Each opening paves the way for the stars (designs) and galaxies (shapes) you wish to bring into existence.
In my experience of pottery creation, opening is the doorway. It’s the threshold between a lump of clay and the beautiful vessel it’s destined to become. Through opening, we set the stage, guiding the clay into its destined form and function.
4 Pulling: The Magical Dance of Transcendence
In the astronomic journey of pottery, if centering is our launchpad and opening our gateway, then pulling is our rocket boost, propelling a simple lump of clay into a rising form. It’s the art of stretching, elongating, and giving that clay its graceful stature.
1. The Essence of Pulling
Pulling is the technique used to raise the walls of a clay vessel, increasing its height and refining its thickness. This phase truly brings the clay to life!
2. Why is Pulling the Star of the Show?
- Sculpting the Silhouette. It’s through pulling that your pottery takes on its primary shape, be it the elegant rise of a vase or the subtle curve of a bowl.
- Uniformity & Grace. Done right, pulling ensures even, consistent walls, making your pottery not just look good but feel divine.
3. The Stellar Techniques
- The Basic Pull. With the left hand outside and the right hand inside the clay, fingers aligned opposite each other, apply gentle pressure and move them upward together.
- Support System. The outer hand supports and guides, while the inner hand does the primary pulling. It’s like a choreographed dance, a ballet of the fingers.
- Repeat Rhythms. A single pull might not achieve the desired height or thinness. Several pulls, growing gentler each time, are often necessary.
4. The Sensational Voyage
- Feel the Flow. As your hands glide, they should move at an even pace, feeling the clay rise and evolve between them.
- Clay Hydration. Ensure the clay is suitably wet during each pull. A lubricated journey prevents sticking and allows smoother movement.
- Mind the Rim. While pulling, the rim can get uneven. Regularly compress and level it to maintain a harmonious, rounded edge.
5. My Gems of Wisdom and Tips
- Begin at the Base. Start pulling from the clay’s base. This ensures uniform thickness and helps avoid weak spots.
- Grace Over Speed. While speed can come with experience, focusing on the finesse and evenness of each pull is paramount.
- Light Touch. As the walls thin with each pull, your touch should become lighter and more sensitive.
6. The Galactic Perspective
Pulling is akin to watching a nebula evolve into a luminous star. It’s where the clay begins its majestic ascent, where its spirit starts to soar. This phase is where you, the potter, and the clay become truly intertwined, dancing in unity towards the creation of something beautiful. When done with passion, each pull narrates a story, etching emotions and aspirations into the rising walls of the pottery.
5 Shaping: The Mesmeric Sculptor’s Song
In the theatrical opera of pottery, if wedging is our prelude and pulling is our crescendo, then shaping is the grand climax, where every note, every gesture crafts an emotion, a personality, a silhouette.
1. The Heartbeat of Shaping.
Shaping translates the abstract whims of the artist into a tangible, touchable reality. It’s where raw potential morphs into delicate curves and strong angles, crystallizing the potter’s vision.
2. Why is Shaping a Spellbinding Spectacle?
- Narrating Tales. Every curve, every dip, and every edge tells a story. Shaping is how these tales get woven into the pottery.
- Crafting Identity. It distinguishes a mug from a vase, a bowl from a platter. It’s the very soul and identity of the piece.
3. Magic Tools & Techniques
- Ribs & Scrapers. Curved or straight, wooden or metal, these tools help smoothen and contour the pottery’s surface, adding finesse.
- Fingers & Palms. The primary sculptors! The inner and outer hands work in sync, guiding the clay into desired forms, from broad belly shapes to narrow necks.
- Sponges. Useful in refining and smoothing surfaces, they also aid in achieving specific textures and patterns.
4. The Odyssey of Shaping
- Inner Journey. While shaping, the inner hand guides the clay’s direction, deciding the pottery’s inner contours.
- Outer Odyssey. The outer hand, often with the aid of tools, defines the exterior shape, refining it to perfection.
- Art of Balance. While adding curves and contours, it’s crucial to maintain wall thickness. Too thin can be fragile, too thick might feel bulky.
5. Whispered Secrets from the Cosmos
- Breathe & Shape. Allow the clay and your intentions to breathe together. Feel the rhythm, and let it guide the shaping process.
- Dynamic Evolution. Don’t be afraid to reshape if the form isn’t aligning with your vision. Clay is forgiving; it’s a dance of co-creation.
- Finishing Touch. Once the primary shaping is done, use tools to refine edges, add textures, or imprint patterns, making the piece uniquely yours.
6. The Universal View
My thoughts on shaping. It isn’t just about the pottery; it’s about the universe of possibilities within the potter’s soul. It’s the act of molding dreams, desires, and stories into a form that others can see, touch, and feel. As the wheel spins and the clay rises, it’s shaped not just by hands but by heartbeats, making it an embodiment of the artist’s spirit. Dive deep into the world of shaping, and you don’t just shape clay, you shape memories!
6 Trimming: The Enigmatic Final Touch
In the vast cosmos of pottery, each step is a star, illuminating the path to perfection. As our clay journey advances, we encounter “Trimming,” the mesmerizing dance of finishing, a ballet where clay meets tool in a performance of precision.
1. The Alchemy of Trimming
Trimming is the act of refining and perfecting a thrown piece of pottery. It’s where the potter’s meticulous touch sculpts the pottery’s foot, bestows balance, and imparts an elegant finish.
2. The Enchanting Why’s of Trimming:
- Weighty Matters. Trimming sheds the excess, making the piece lighter and more refined.
- Stability & Grace. Crafting a foot ensures that the piece sits well on any surface. Like a ballerina’s poised toe, it offers balance and elegance.
- Aesthetic Elevation. Beyond function, trimming adds a polished look, providing a distinction between the handmade and the mundane.
3. Tools of Trimming:
- Trimming Tools. Often shaped like loops or semi-circles, made of rigid steel or tungsten, these tools effortlessly carve away excess clay.
- Chucks & Giffin Grip. These assist in holding the pot upside-down without deforming it, ensuring a secure grip during the trimming odyssey.
4. The Spellbinding Steps of Trimming:
- Upside-Down World. Place the leather-hard pot upside-down on the wheel. This inversion lets the potter focus on the base.
- Anchor & Secure. Lightly press the clay down or use clay coils to ensure the piece doesn’t fly away during the trimming dance.
- Glide & Carve. Engage the trimming tool, gliding it gracefully to remove excess clay. This step defines the foot, refines the shape, and enhances the overall profile.
- Smooth Operations. Post-trimming, smooth any sharp or rough edges to ensure a tactile and visual appeal.
5. My Trimming Wisdom from the Clay Chronicles:
- Sync with the Clay. Trim when the piece is leather-hard – not too wet, not bone dry. This magical state allows for easy, precise removal.
- Less is More. Don’t trim too much. Go slow, and remember, you can always trim more, but adding clay back is a challenge.
- Celebrate Individuality. Each piece has its essence. While trimming, let the clay guide you. Sometimes imperfections lead to unique beauty.
6. Universal Reflection on Trimming
Trimming is much like life’s refining moments, chipping away excesses, molding us to be better. In this delicate balance between removing and retaining, there’s a lesson, not just about pottery but about existence. To trim is to acknowledge imperfections, to embrace them, and to refine with love and patience. In the grand theater of clay, trimming is that thoughtful pause, that final touch, the silent nod to the universe’s artistry.
7 Cutting: The Cerulean Crescendo of Creation
Dive with me into the poetic realm of pottery where the dance of creation often culminates in a singular act of separation: the art of “Cutting.” As we traverse the fascinating terrains of pottery, cutting stands out as the profound metaphor for release and detachment.
1. The Essence of Cutting
At its core, cutting is the act of separating a freshly thrown pottery piece from the wheel head or bat. This delicate severing requires grace, precision, and a profound understanding of timing.
2. Why the Art of Cutting Matters:
- Destiny’s Detach. After a potter shapes a vessel, it must be released from its creative anchor to evolve further.
- Purity in Parting. Cutting ensures a smooth bottom, eliminating rough edges or unseemly attachments.
3. Tools that Dance the Divide:
- Cutting Wires. Often a taut wire with handles on each end. Its simplicity is its strength, designed to slide smoothly under the pot.
- Fettling Knives. Thin, flexible blades perfect for making precise cuts or for removing excess clay from the base of a piece.
4. Steps to the Perfect Parting:
- Wait. After shaping, allow the clay a brief moment. This short pause helps in reducing distortion during the cut.
- Steady, Glide, Release. Holding both ends of the cutting wire, glide it tautly and evenly under the piece, moving from one side of the wheel to the other, separating the piece with gentle assurance.
- Lift with Love. Once severed, use palms or pottery spatulas to carefully lift the piece, readying it for its next stage of evolution.
5. The Philosophical Perspective of Cutting
Much like the butterfly emerging from its chrysalis, cutting symbolizes transition and growth. It teaches the cerulean lesson of letting go, reminding us that every creation, after being shaped and nurtured, must eventually stand alone, independent of its creator.
6. Cutting Echoes from the Great Beyond
Cutting, though seemingly a simple act, resonates with the profound universal cycles of creation and detachment. Every star in the cosmos, every tree in the forest, and every wave in the ocean knows this rhythm. In pottery, as in life, cutting embodies the moment of release, when the creator steps back, allowing the creation to embark on its destined journey.
In the cosmic dance of clay, cutting is not an end, but a new beginning, an ode to the endless cycle of life and art.
8 Drying: The Whispered Ballet of Time and Air
The evocative saga of pottery doesn’t end with the mere act of sculpting. Drying, that gentle embrace of air and patience, plays a pivotal role, guiding our creation from its malleable infancy to resilient maturity. Let’s embark on this nuanced voyage!
1. The Breath of Transformation
Drying is the controlled process where water gradually evaporates from the clay, transitioning it from a wet, workable state to a leather-hard, then bone-dry phase, preparing it for firing.
2. Why Drying is Momentous:
- Structural Maturation. As the clay dries, it contracts. This reduction in size solidifies the piece’s shape.
- The Prerequisite to Pyro. Before firing, the piece MUST be bone dry to prevent explosive steam damage in the kiln.
3. Dancing with Delicacy:
- Slow and Steady. Quick drying might cause warping, cracking, or even structural collapse. The art lies in patience and gradual evaporation.
- Consistency is Key. Uneven drying can lead to tension within the clay body. Always aim for a homogenous drying environment.
4. My Drying Tools & Tricks:
- Cloths & Plastic. Gently wrapping your piece can regulate moisture escape.
- Turning & Flipping. Rotate your piece during drying to ensure even air exposure, especially for flat pieces.
5. Embracing the Phases:
- Leather-hard. After initial drying, the piece retains slight moisture—ideal for carving or joining additional clay components.
- Bone Dry. The piece feels room temperature to touch, indicating all water content has vanished. It’s now ready for bisque firing.
6. Addressing the Unexpected
Should you see cracks or warping, it’s often an indicator of uneven drying. Fear not! Many such mishaps can be addressed during the leather-hard phase with careful attention and deft hands.
7. Beyond the Clay
Drying, in its quiet wisdom, mirrors life’s ebb and flow. As clay surrenders its water, it teaches us about release, transition, and the beautiful impermanence of states. Each moment in drying is a whispered promise of transformation.
Drying might seem passive, but it’s an active dialogue between artist, clay, and environment. It’s a testament to the fact that creation doesn’t always roar; sometimes it whispers, evolves, and matures in silent ballets of time and air.
My Drying Story
In the heart of my studio, after hours of meticulous crafting, emerged a cat-shaped masterpiece.
A hand-built wall decor destined for greatness, ha! It was sheer perfection (in my mind); each curve and crease a testament to dedicated artistry. Eager to marvel at my work up close, I couldn’t help but lift the piece for a closer inspection.
As I stood there, lost in its details, time slowed. My grip faltered, and the universe played its mischievous trick: my feline art took a tiny, tragic 2-inch leap off my hands, meeting the counter below. The impact? Heartbreaking. My flawless cat now lay in two, the fractured halves echoing my own astonishment. I stood, frozen, navigating the maze of disbelief and dismay.
While creations are in their delicate drying stage, resist to handle them. Let them be, for sometimes, a 2-inch fall can weigh far more than we imagine!
9 Bisque Firing: Unleashing the Spirit of Clay
- The Basics.
Bisque firing, often referred to as the “biscuit” or “bisque,” is the pottery process’s inaugural firing. The ceramic work is heated in a kiln for the first time, and oh, what a transformative rite of passage it is! - Objective. This firing method aims to turn clay into a more durable, porous material. It drives out the water, organic materials, and other gases from the clay, ensuring it won’t combust during subsequent, higher-temperature firings.
- Temperature. The temperature ranges for bisque firings can vary, but typically, they simmer between 1000°C to 1250°C (1832°F to 2282°F). It’s a slower, gentler ascend to ensure all moisture evaporates without causing steam-induced explosions.
- The Transformation. Post this process, the clay changes forever – from being delicate and fragile, it turns hard and chalky, yet porous enough to absorb glazes beautifully.
- Advantages:
- Strength. Even though the bisque-fired ware remains porous, it’s far less fragile than its greenware state, reducing the chances of breakage.
- Glaze-Ready. The porous nature of bisque-fired items makes them perfectly prepped for glazing as they soak up the glaze, allowing for even coverage.
- Eradication of Impurities. This firing helps to burn away minor impurities and organic materials trapped in the clay, making the next firing cleaner and the final product more durable.
- Caution:
- Irreversible. Once you’ve bisque fired your piece, there’s no turning back! The process is irreversible, meaning any imperfections or structural issues become permanent.
- Loading your Kiln. Bisque wares can be loaded close together in the kiln since they won’t melt or deform, but ensure good air circulation to avoid ‘hot spots’ or uneven firing.
- Cooling & Unloading. Once the firing cycle is complete, patience is key. Let the kiln cool slowly to prevent thermal shock, which could crack or damage your ceramics.
10 Glazing: The Art of Alchemy
- What’s in the Glaze:
- Ingredients. Glazes are composed of silica, fluxes, and alumina. Add colorants or metal oxides, and voilà, you’ve got a palette to paint any dream!
- Magic Mix. When melted, silica forms glass; fluxes reduce the melting point, and alumina provides sturdiness ensuring the glaze doesn’t slide off!
- Application of Glazing:
- Dip. Dip your bisqueware into a bucket of glaze.
- Pour. Pour glaze inside hollow forms, swirling it around for even coverage.
- Brush. Use brushes to paint on more intricate designs or layers.
- Spray. Perfect for even coats or gradient effects.
- The Waiting Game
Once applied, the piece must dry. This waiting allows the glaze to harden, ensuring it doesn’t smudge or drip during the firing process. - Glaze-teristics:
- Opacity. From sheer, translucent glazes to robust, opaque ones, the choices are endless.
- Texture. Smooth, glossy, matte, crystalline, or even cratered – each texture tells a tale.
- Interactions. Layering different glazes can result in serendipitous, often breathtaking effects.
- Fire & Fusion. When the glazed piece is heated in a kiln, the glaze ingredients melt together, fusing with the ceramic’s surface to create a glassy coat. This not only amplifies beauty but also increases the ware’s durability.
- Glaze Safety:
- Food Safe. Not all glazes are fit for dinnerware. Some might leach chemicals when in contact with certain foods or liquids.
- Stability. Some glazes might craze (develop tiny cracks) or shiver (flake off), affecting the piece’s longevity.
- Clean Footing. Remember to wipe off any glaze from the bottom of your piece! This prevents it from sticking to the kiln shelf during firing.
- Test Tiles. A best practice in the glazing world. Before glazing an entire piece, test your glazes on smaller tiles. This gives an idea of the final look without risking larger works.
11 Glaze Firing: The Final Furnace Fiesta
Glaze firing the exhilarating final act in the ceramic saga, glaze firing is where raw potential meets radiant realization. Ready to dive deep into this fiery finale? Let’s go!
- What Is Glaze Firing?
- This is the process where applied glazes undergo a transformation, melting and fusing to the ceramic body. The ceramic itself vitrifies further, and together, they form a vibrant, glass-like surface.
- Temperature:
- Cone System. The temperature and time duration of the firing are determined by “cones.” Each cone number corresponds to a specific heat-work combination.
- Ranges. Glaze firings typically occur at temperatures between 1828°F (1000°C) for low-fire earthenware to 2381°F (1305°C) for high-fire stoneware.
- Oxidation vs. Reduction:
- Oxidation. Oxygen is allowed inside the kiln, causing metal oxides in the glazes to exhibit bright, vivid colors.
- Reduction. Limited oxygen in the kiln can cause metal oxides to change form, often resulting in rich, earthy tones.
- Atmospheric Adventures:
- Different kiln atmospheres, such as salt/soda, wood, and pit firing, can offer unique effects on glazes, adding layers of intrigue to the outcome.
- Cooling Chronicles:
- Once the peak temperature is reached, the kiln is gradually cooled. This cooling rate can influence glaze textures and appearances. Some crystals grow during slow cooling, offering mesmerizing patterns!
- Peek-a-Boo!
- Resist the temptation to open the kiln prematurely. It’s essential to wait until the kiln cools down to room temperature to avoid thermal shock to your pieces.
- Pinholing & Other Pitfalls:
- If glazes are applied too thickly, or if there are impurities/gases trying to escape from the clay during firing, tiny pinholes might form.
- Running, crawling, or crazing are other possible glaze faults to be aware of. They can result from factors like glaze thickness, firing rate, or glaze composition.
- Safety Soiree:
- Proper ventilation is essential during glaze firing. Some glazes can give off fumes, and good airflow ensures a safe environment.
- Magic Moment:
- The kiln’s unveiling post-glaze firing is an event bursting with anticipation. The culmination of hours of labor and love, the reveal is a blend of excitement, surprise, and satisfaction.
In the grand theatre of ceramics, glaze firing is the dramatic climax where suspense, science, and splendor collide. As clay and glaze dance in the dragon’s breath of the kiln, they emerge transformed, telling tales of trials, triumphs, and timeless beauty.
References
The Potter’s Bible: An Essential Illustrated Reference for both Beginner and Advanced Potters by Marylin Scott. Scott, Marylin. The Potter’s Bible: An Essential Illustrated Reference for Both Beginner and Advanced Potters. Quarto Publishing Group USA, 2006.
Mastering the Potter’s Wheel: Techniques, Tips, and Tricks for Potters by Ben Carter. Carter, Ben. Mastering the Potter’s Wheel: Techniques, Tips, and Tricks for Potters. Mastering Ceramics, 2016.
- A fantastic resource that goes beyond the basics. Ben Carter shares insights, advanced techniques, and tips to truly master the potter’s wheel. Along with technical information, Carter also touches upon the aesthetics and style that make wheel-thrown pottery a revered art form.
