This is my ultimate guide on how to centre clay on the potter’s wheel, (centre, center? Yes I’m using both spellings, both English and American, so it’s searchable for people all over the world). I’ve tried to go into as much detail as possible to thoroughly explain each little step along the way as well as showing you how to fix certain errors and discussing all the little tips and tricks I have. Enjoy, and I hope this video is useful! Let me know if it is in the comments below.
• How to wedge clay video:
• How to center clay:
• How to pull up the walls of clay:
• How to open up and form the base:
• How to lift pots off the wheel:
• How to throw a bowl:
• Trimming tips and tricks:
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⏱ • Timecodes:
0:00 – Introduction and discussing the importance of preparing clay, (wedging)
0:50 – What shape to make the wedged up balls of clay
1:23 – How to sit at the wheel properly
1:41 – Positioning of left arm, the ‘anchor’
2:02 – How to slam the clay down effectively
4:21 – How to position left arm and push upper body weight onto the clay
5:10 – Water/slip usage
5:36 – Using little finger to seal the base of the clay
6:00 – Introducing vertical pressure
8:01 – The centred shape I’m after
8:26 – Scraping the ball of clay if it feels gritty
9:02 – Discussing the speed of the wheel
9:53 – How to position hands as to not grind your skin
10:32 – Pinching fingers and focusing on stability
11:18 – Using the leftover ‘skim’ of clay to help stick down the balls of clay
11:37 – Coning the clay
13:50 – How to remove your hands from the clay as not to introduce a wobble
15:20 – The importance of centring
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