Creating a Mixing Bowl on the Potters Wheel

Creating a mixing bowl on the potter's wheel is a detailed and rewarding process that combines skill, precision, and creativity. Here's a step-by-step guide:
1. *Weighing the Clay*
Begin by weighing out approximately 2.7kg of clay. This amount will give you enough material to create a sizable mixing bowl.
2. **Wedging**:
Wedge the clay thoroughly to remove any air bubbles and ensure a uniform consistency. This process involves kneading the clay on a wedging table, using a spiral or ram's head technique until the clay feels even and smooth.
3. **Centering the Clay**:
Place the wedged clay onto the center of the potter's wheel. Wet your hands and the clay, then start the wheel spinning at a moderate speed. Using both hands, apply pressure to center the clay, ensuring it is stable and symmetrical.
4. **Opening the Clay**:
Once the clay is centered, use your thumbs to create an opening in the middle. Gradually widen this opening by pulling the clay outward with your fingers, forming the base of the bowl. Maintain a consistent thickness throughout the base.
5. **Pulling Up the Walls**:
With the base formed, begin to pull up the walls of the bowl. Use a combination of your inside and outside hand to gently squeeze and lift the clay upwards. This step requires a delicate touch to avoid collapsing the walls while creating an even thickness.
6. **Shaping the Bowl**:
As the walls reach the desired height, focus on shaping the bowl. Use a rib tool to smooth the surface and refine the shape, ensuring the rim is even and the curves are graceful.
7. **Trimming**: Once the bowl is formed, slow down the wheel and use a trimming tool to clean up the bottom edge, removing any excess clay and creating a smooth foot.
8. **Finishing Touches**:
After trimming, gently use fingers to form a gentle pouring lip.
I will let it to dry to a leather-hard stage before further refining or decorating.
Once the bowl is fully dry I can fire it for the bisque fire before glazing and firing it again to complete the process.
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