Remember that the more clay you use, the larger your pot will be.
If you are a beginner, keep the speed low to medium while you work the pot. This will help to prevent the clay from getting off-centered.
You do not need to push down hard on the clay. Just tap it.
Keep the wheel set to a low speed as you do this, or increase the speed slightly if you feel comfortable with a higher speed.
You may increase the speed of the pottery wheel while shaping the cone, or keep it at a low speed. Repeat this as many times as needed to mold the clay into the desired width and height.
Maintain an even wheel speed as you do this.
You may also use a chamois to compress the rim. Hold the chamois over the rim and press on it with your fingertips. This will help to remove excess moisture from the clay more efficiently, but it is optional.
Don’t bend your fingers too much or your knuckles will create grooves in the pot. Try to create a curve with your hand to create the same type of curve on the inside of the pot.
Try to curve your hand on the outside of the pot in the same way as the hand inside the pot.
Repeat this as many times as needed to get the desired shape and wall width. Make sure to wet your hands after each throw (upward movement) to keep the clay well lubricated.
You may want to put down some newspaper to protect your surface before placing the clay pot on it.
You may also let your pot air dry, but keep in mind that the pot will not be waterproof if you let it air dry. Air drying can take several days to weeks depending on the size of your pot. If you do not have a kiln, you could try visiting a local pottery studio and asking if they will fire and glaze the pot for you. They might be willing to do so for a fee. Make sure you cover all of the pot with glaze except for the bottom. If you get any glaze on the bottom, your pot will stick to the shelf in the kiln. [16] X Expert Source Natasha Dikareva, MFACeramics & Sculpting Instructor Expert Interview. 5 May 2020. Follow the instructions on the glaze so you know how many layers to apply. [17] X Expert Source Natasha Dikareva, MFACeramics & Sculpting Instructor Expert Interview. 5 May 2020.
