Keeping clay securely attached to the pottery wheel involves mastering the process of centering and applying consistent, controlled pressure as the wheel spins.
The fundamental technique for keeping clay on the wheel is centering. This process ensures the clay mass spins perfectly on the rotational axis of the wheel head, preventing it from wobbling or flying off due to centrifugal force.
The Centering Process
Centering isn't a single movement but a series of gradual adjustments and pressure applications. According to expert guidance, to center the clay completely, you need to move it slightly as it spins. It's crucial to move it gradually, don't make any jerky movements.
Here's a breakdown of the key actions involved in centering to keep the clay stable:
- Firm Attachment: Ensure the clay is firmly secured to the clean wheel head initially. A bit of slip (clay and water mixture) on the wheel head before placing the clay can help.
- Consistent Speed: Start the wheel at a moderate, consistent speed. Too slow makes centering difficult; too fast can make the clay unstable.
- Brace Yourself: Your hands and arms must be well-braced against your body or legs to provide steady pressure.
- Applying Pressure: Apply firm, even pressure with both hands simultaneously from opposing sides of the clay mass while it spins. This pressure helps compress and align the clay particles.
- Coning Up: An essential part of the process is pressing the clay up into a cone shape. This action helps to compress the clay from the base and bring any air bubbles or inconsistencies to the surface or center, making it easier to manage.
- Pressing Down: After coning up, you then press it down into a round half sphere by using slow steady movements with your hands. This downward pressure, combined with inward pressure, consolidates the clay mass firmly onto the wheel head and positions it for opening and shaping.
- Repeat: The process of coning up and pressing down is often repeated several times until the clay feels perfectly stable and shows no wobble as it spins.
Why Gradual Movements Matter
As highlighted in the guidance, making gradual, non-jerky movements is vital. Sudden or uneven pressure can destabilize the clay, causing it to lose its center or even detach from the wheel head. Pottery on the wheel requires patience and smooth, deliberate actions.
Key Factors for Success
- Consistent Water/Slip: Keeping the surface of the clay lubricated with water or slip reduces friction and allows your hands to move smoothly, aiding in centering and preventing the clay from sticking to your hands.
- Even Pressure: Apply equal pressure with both hands during centering and forming.
- Body Stability: Bracing your body provides the necessary stability for your hands to exert controlled pressure.
By following these steps, especially the crucial movements of coning up and pressing down using slow, steady movements as the clay spins, you effectively keep the clay mass centered and securely attached to the wheel head, ready for shaping.
