Remember those days in elementary school when you got your hands on some clay and felt like a mini Michelangelo? Or that summer camp where you proudly crafted a wobbly mug that your parents still keep for sentimental reasons? Pottery has this magical allure of being easy—until you realize it's a bit like trying to tame a wild horse. It’s fun, it’s challenging, and it can get a little messy, but that’s where the charm lies, right?
Over the years, we’ve picked up some golden nuggets of wisdom from fellow potters, our time at Sheridan College, and good old-fashioned trial and error. Whether you're just starting out or have been spinning that wheel for a while, these super simple tricks are here to help you up your pottery game (plus some bonus video content for our fellow visual learners out there)!
1. Use a Plastic Bag to Soften the Edges of Slabs
You know that moment when you’re finishing up a slab, and the edges just need that final touch to look polished and professional? Here’s a quick hack: grab a plastic bag, lay it over the edges, and give it a gentle press. The plastic lets your finger glide effortlessly, refining the edge without dragging or denting the clay inconsistently. It’s a simple trick that makes a world of difference, leaving you with a sleek, finished edge that looks as smooth as it feels.
Bonus Content: Watch this video to see how it’s done!
2. Use Flour or Cornstarch When Using Stamps
Stamps are like the sprinkles on a cake—they add that extra pizzazz. But sometimes, the clay decides to play hardball and sticks to your stamp, ruining your perfect pattern. Enter the humble kitchen staple: flour or cornstarch. Dust a light layer over your slab before stamping, and watch the magic happen. Your stamps will come off cleanly, leaving behind crisp, beautiful designs. Plus, you’ll feel like a pottery pro with this little trick up your sleeve.
Bonus Content: See this technique in action - just check out this video.
3. Use a Sponge on a Stick for Tall Vases
Tall vases are stunning, but cleaning them up can feel like trying to clean out the bottom of a narrow jar—frustrating and nearly impossible. Here’s the secret weapon: a sponge on a stick. Yup, it’s that simple. You can DIY it with a dowel and a regular round sponge, and suddenly, those hard-to-reach spots are no longer a problem. Your vases will be smooth and refined, inside and out.
Bonus Content: Check out this video to see how you can make your very own sponge on a stick.
4. Use Vinegar or “Magic Water” When Attaching
Scoring and slipping are the bread and butter of pottery, but sometimes they need a little boost. That’s where vinegar or magic water comes in. A quick dab of vinegar can strengthen the bond between two pieces of clay, making your attachments more durable. And if you’re into a little alchemy, try making some “Magic Water”. It’s a simple mix of water, sodium silica and soda ash that can make all the difference when you’re working with tricky joins.
Bonus Content: Find the recipe for Magic Water here.
5. Spend Extra Attention on the Rims and Bottoms of Your Pieces
When it comes to pottery, the devil is in the details. The rims and bottoms of your pieces are like the finishing touches on a painting—they can make or break the look. Take your time to smooth them out with a rib, cloth, or sponge. It’s worth the extra effort because a clean rim and a polished bottom make your piece look refined and professional. And, of course, it’s all about that tactile satisfaction when someone holds your work.
Bonus Content: Want to perfect those rims and bottoms? Watch this video on achieving a flawless rim and refined bottom on your pots.
6. A Push Pin Will Save Your Trimming!
Trimming can be a bit of a guessing game. You’re either tapping the bottom and hoping for the best or using the “feel” method, which, let’s be honest, isn’t always foolproof. But have you tried the push pin trick? Before you start trimming, stick a push pin (yep, the kind you’d use on a bulletin board) through the bottom of your bowl from the inside. As you trim, when you start to feel the pin, you know it’s time to stop. It’s a game-changer, especially for those thin-bottomed pieces. Just remember to smooth out the pinhole afterward, and you’re golden.
Bonus Content: Watch this video to see the technique in action.
7. Fixing Cracks
Ah, cracks—the ultimate heartbreakers in pottery. It’s like the universe conspiring to cramp your creative flow. But don’t despair! There’s hope for those cracks, whether your piece is leather hard or bone dry. For leather-hard cracks, slip is your best friend. Apply it generously, smooth it out, and let it dry. For those stubborn bone-dry cracks, you’ll need to bring out the big guns. Paint on a little bit of vinegar, gently work it into the crack and apply a layer of paper clay slip over the area. Let it dry slowly, and with a bit of luck, your piece will be back on track. Fixing a bone-dry crack can be tricky, but this method works most of the time.
Bonus Content: For a step-by-step guide, check out this video.
8. Use a Cutting Wire or Flossing Tool to Fix Wobbly Rims
Wobbly rims are like the mischievous troublemakers of the pottery world—one minute everything’s going smoothly, and the next, your mug’s rim is doing the wave. But don’t worry; we’ve got a quick fix for you. Grab a cutting wire or even a flossing tool (yes, the kind you use for your teeth!). With your piece still on the wheel, gently press the wire against the rim as the wheel spins slowly. This will trim down any high spots and level out your rim to one consistent height.
Bonus Content: Check out this video to see the magic in action!
There you have it—some super simple, but super effective tips to make your pottery journey a little smoother. Pottery is all about the process, the learning, and yes, sometimes the happy accidents. So, embrace the challenges, get a little messy, and remember that every piece you create is a testament to your growth as a potter. Happy crafting!
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Welcome to Parkdale Pottery, your premier destination for pottery classes and workshops in Toronto's vibrant Parkdale neighborhood. As a woman-owned teaching studio, we're committed to fostering creativity and skill development in clay and ceramic arts. Our welcoming studio space is designed to bring together artists of all levels, providing a supportive community where friendships flourish alongside artistic growth. Join us in exploring the boundless possibilities of pottery, whether you're a beginner or seasoned artisan. Let's sculpt, shape, and create together at Parkdale Pottery!