Note: The inside corners have to be enforced with coils to give joints the extra strength. When I attach the first edge slab, I can go in with my hand and place the coil by hand, then I go ahead and add coils all the way, as pictured in bottom photo. I then add the coils to the standing slabs other edge. I can then take a long stick and go in from the top after I attach the second edge slab to the form and push the clay coil firmly against the edges slab.
The middle photo shows a simple finish with the slabs to the piece. In the top photo you can see the addition of small arms or wings to the form. And since I will fire these in a wood kiln, I like to add a flashing slip to the surface. I let it dry for a couple of hours, then apply the slip.
I find this method very well suited for me, it allows me to make larger forms and repeat them without really making the same piece over and over. Have fun, make them good pots.
4 comments:
Hi Ron, those are some really nice hand built forms. What a wonderful demonstration in three parts (harmony). How are your blending your edges to make them so smooth? Do you have a trick to that? Does the bottle filled with water ever make an unwanted impression in the inside bottom of the piece? You have inspired me to make some various handbuilt forms. Sorry for so many questions, everything clay is so intriquing to me. Thanks so much.
Linda,
To make the edges smooth and look a part of the pot, I just run a coil (1/2") down the joined edge, letting it stick out beyond the edge. I let stiffen while I do the other edges. I just take a wood rasp, a lot of ceramics warehouses or lumber yards carry then. the edge that I trim is hung out over the edge of the table I am working on so that the rasp will flow through the bottom and not stop. When I get it to where I want, I use a wet sponge to smooth it out. Then repeat on ther edges.
The bottle will leave a foot print, but if you want just take a piece of wood the same size and place on the clay where the bottle will sit.
I enjoy doing these pieces, so I hope you will try it several times, start smaller and grow into the bigger ones. good luck
Hi Ron, thanks so much for the info about the coil on the outside seam. I picked up a rasp I read about in a lana wilson book I have, but hadn't had an opportunity to use it yet. I will try your technique to see how I do. Thanks again.
Linda,
Start smaller and work your way to large, your clay body will have to be adjusted as you go larger, usually adding more grog will resolve that problem. enjoy.
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