Yes, sand can be utilized in the process of making pots, specifically to help shape the internal structure.
How Sand is Used in Pot Making
While pots are typically made from clay or other pottery materials, sand plays a crucial role in certain pot-making techniques by serving as an internal core or mold. This method is particularly useful for hand-building or creating specific internal shapes that might be difficult to achieve otherwise.
According to one method, damp sand is used to form the core around which the pot is built.
The Role of the Sand Core
The sand core effectively provides the shape of the inside of your pot. Here's how it works:
- You use damp sand that has the consistency of sand suitable for building a sand castle – wet enough to hold its form when packed.
- This damp sand is then piled and packed fairly tight onto a base or turntable.
- As the turntable is turned (if using one), a scraper or tool can be used to shape the packed sand, defining the precise contours of the interior of the pot you wish to create.
- The pottery material (like clay) is then formed around this stable sand core. Once the pot dries or is partially set, the sand can typically be removed.
This technique allows for reliable internal dimensions and shapes, ensuring uniformity or specific designs that might be challenging with freehand methods for the interior.
