Topic outline

  • Introduction

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    • Throwing bowls is the focus of this beginner's guide. In this tutorial, I'll demonstrate two different methods for creating pottery bowls while discussing various important aspects, such as forming the interior curve and distributing the clay to trim a nice, tall foot ring.

    • Demonstrating Two Different Methods

      I'll begin by throwing two bowls using slightly different methods, each starting with approximately one pound of clay (about 454 grams).

  • 1: First Method

    • 1. Centering and Opening the Clay: After centering and opening up the lump of clay, immediately begin pulling the walls up and outward in the same movement.


    • 2. Forming the Walls:
      • With each pull, dig your knuckle firmly into the base, pressing that portion inward. This action pushes some clay up into the base portion of the wall.
      • Pull this clay up into the curved sides carefully to avoid constricting the bottom too much. Insufficient clay beneath the walls can cause them to slump.

    • 3. Shaping the Bowl: Throwing directly to the throwing gauge's pointer upward and outward is the most direct method of making bowls. Remember, there's no single best way—it's about finding what works best for you and what you enjoy.


    • 4. Finishing the First Bowl: Once the rim is set, the pot is wired through, and the bowl is gently lifted away, the first piece is finished.



  • 2: Second Method

    • 1. Centering and Opening the Clay: Start by centering and opening up the clay as before.


    • 2. Creating a Rough Cylinder:

      • Pull the walls upward into a rough cylinder, allowing a slight outward angle.
      • Ensure the cylinder remains relatively thick from top to bottom, especially at the rim. If the rim is too thin, the next steps won't be possible.

    • 3. Stretching into a Bowl Shape:

      • Once the cylinder is tall enough, gradually stretch the walls outward bit by bit into the bowl shape similar to the first method.
      • Be cautious if starting with a very thin rim, as stretching can cause it to split, especially with weaker or recycled clay.


    • 4. Finishing the Second Bowl: The finishing steps are identical to the first method:

      • Undercut the bottom.
      • Clean the inside.
      • Smooth the rim.
      • Drag a wire underneath.
      • Lift the bowl away with fingers stuffed into the excess clay around the base and press off.

  • 3: Comparing the Two Methods

    • To highlight the differences:

      • First Method: Pulls the walls directly upward and outward to form the bowl.
      • Second Method: Forms a cylinder first, then stretches it into a bowl shape.

      When making bowls, decide which method suits your style and comfort. Having a clear plan can significantly aid your throwing process.

  • 4: Centering the Clay

    • 1. Shaping the Centered Clay:

      • Aim for a low disc form that's slightly wider than it is tall. This extra width provides the necessary clay beneath the walls for support.
      • Cone the clay up and down several times to center it effectively.
      • Roughly flatten the top to achieve the desired shape.

    • 2. Opening Up the Clay:

      • Use a wetted thumb and index finger to open up and check the depth.
      • Push down into the middle carefully, leaving about 1.5 cm (2/3 of an inch) in the base.
      • Verify the depth by gently pushing a needle through the bottom and feeling the base thickness.

    • 3. Marking the Foot Ring:

      • From a cross-section view, distribute the clay appropriately, leaving enough material in the base for the foot ring.
      • Mark out where the foot ring will sit underneath the pot using a needle.

    • 4. Forming the Interior Curve:

      • Aim for a continuous, curved interior by opening up in a V-shape rather than creating a flat base.
      • Practice pinching and drawing up large amounts of clay to form the initial pulls.


  • 5: How to Pull the Walls Up

    • 1. Using Your Fingers:

      • Push in at the base with your index finger on the outside while drawing the clay up with your hands.
      • Let the wheel's inertia help pull the form outward gently.

    • 2. Maintaining Consistent Movement:

      • Ensure both inside and outside fingers work in harmony to pull the walls up and out at a gradual pace.
      • Release the rim gently once your fingers reach it.

    • 3. Managing Moisture:

      • Add a moderate amount of water to the inside to prevent sticking, but avoid over-watering, which can weaken the clay.

    • 4. Achieving Desired Dimensions:

      • Aim for specific measurements, such as 18 cm wide and 7 cm tall for the bowl.
      • Make one or two additional pulls to enhance the curve.

  • 6: How to Clean Up the Bowl

    • 1. Undercutting the Form:

      • Undercut the base first to prevent bumps from forming inside the bowl.
      • This ensures a smooth interior without deforming the already cleaned sections.

    • 2. Scraping the Interior:

      • Scrape clean the interior to create a continuous curve.
      • Remove excess slip to maintain the shape integrity.


    • 3. Performing the Roll Test:

      • Roll a ball along the interior curve. It should rock smoothly without irregular stops, indicating a well-formed curve.

  • 7: Lifting the Bowl from the Wheel

    • 1. Using Excess Clay for Grip:

      • The excess clay on either side of the foot ring provides grip points.
      • Insert four fingers horizontally into the excess clay to lift the pot securely.

    • 2. Avoiding Unwanted Contact:

      • Ensure only the designated points contact the bowl to maintain its shape.

    • 3. Using a Twisted Metal Wire:

      • Employ a twisted metal wire to create a distinct cut underneath the pot, reducing the chance of sticking.
      • Spin the wheel while lifting to break any sticky seal.
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  • 8: The Tools I Use

    • Most of the work is done by hand, but these five simple tools assist in the process:

      1. Blunted Turning Tool: Used to undercut the base, creating a dry area for lifting the pot.
      2. Sponge: Mops out excess water and slip.
      3. Sharp Metal Scraper: Cleans the surface of the bowl.
      4. Shammy Leather: Compresses the rim for a smooth finish.
      5. Twisted Metal Wire: Cuts underneath the pot to release it from the wheel.
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  • Source

    • The lesson is based on material from the YouTube video by Gadsby, F. For more information and analysis, the book by Gadsby, F. (2023), By My Hands, Penguin Books, is recommended.