HOW TO MAKE A PINCH POT

Summary

In this instructional video, the host teaches the art of creating a pinch pot using a one-pound chunk of clay. The process involves forming a round ball, puncturing it without breaking the base, and pinching it into shape. The host demonstrates how to use the table surface for support and alternate hands for stability. Techniques for thinning walls, fixing base issues, and trimming the rim are shared. The video also covers potential issues, like asymmetry, and solutions like re-wedging the clay. Finally, the host adds a foot ring and handle to enhance the pot's aesthetics.

Takeaways

• 🤲 Start with a one-pound wedged clay and shape it into a round ball.
• 👇 Use your thumb to create a hole in the center without breaking through the base.
• 🔄 Pinch the clay from the inside, alternating top to bottom and vice versa, to thin the walls.
• 👎 Utilize the table surface to support the pot's side profile while pinching to maintain shape.
• 🚫 Avoid aggressive handling to prevent misshapen pots.
• 💧 Add water to the rim if it cracks, and gently compress to fuse clay platelets.
• ✂️ Trim the rim with a steady hand using a needle tool or scalpel.
• 🖋️ Smooth the rim with a sponge or chamois after trimming.
• 🔢 Mark the bottom of the pot with your name and number after day one.
• 🔄 If the pot shape is unsatisfactory, re-wedge the clay and start again.
• 🔧 Use a trimming stick or rib tool to smooth flat surfaces or create squared edges.
• 🔗 Attach a foot ring by slipping and scoring to ensure a strong bond with the pot.
• 🎨 Add a handle for aesthetics, using the same slipping and scoring technique.

Q & A

What is the first step in making a pinch pot according to the script?

The first step is to wedge out a one-pound chunk of clay and shape it into a perfectly round ball.

How do you start forming the pinch pot after making a ball of clay?

You start by puncturing the ball of clay with your thumb without perforating the base.

What is the purpose of pinching the clay from the bottom to the top and vice versa?

Pinching the clay in this manner thins out the walls of the pot and helps in shaping it.

Why is it important to use the table surface while pinching the pot?

Using the table surface provides support to the side profile of the pinch pot, keeping it sturdy and preventing it from flaring out too wide.

What is the basic pinching motion described in the script?

The basic pinching motion involves alternating hands to support the pinch pot while pinching with the other, allowing for a balanced and even shaping.

Why is it crucial to avoid thick walls when making a pinch pot?

Thick walls would result in a heavy object, which is not desired for a functional utilitarian object like a door stopper.

How can one fix the bottom of the pinch pot if it becomes too conical?

The bottom can be fixed by tapping it on the table or adding a foot ring to achieve the desired shape.

What should you do if the rim of the pinch pot cracks while making it?

Add a little bit of water to the rim and smooth it out to prevent further cracking.

Why is it necessary to write your name and number on the bottom of the pinch pot?

It helps to identify the maker of the pinch pot and prevents confusion with others' work.

What is the ideal condition of the clay on day one before it is bagged?

The clay should be in a leather-hard state, which means it is no longer plastic and can withstand pressure without bending or flexing much.

How can one ensure that the clay pieces stick together when adding a foot ring or handle?

Slip and score the surfaces where the clay pieces meet to allow the platelets to interlock and use slip as a bonding agent.