Twisted Vessels

Set die in extruder

Load 2" square die, 1 1/2" interior die and spider into extruder end cap. Shape and load clay into extruder.

Extruder Die View

Extrude Clay

Pull down on the lever of the extruder with one hand, while twisting the clay as it exits the end cap with the other hand.

Cut and set up

Use wire cutter to slice extrusions at 6" to 12" intervals from the end cap. Stand cut extrusions on a table to dry until leather hard (about 1-2 hours) or wrap in plastic to use during next class period.

Slabs for Tops and Bottoms

Roll slabs for tops and bottoms of the vessels. Make slabs the same thickness as the walls of extruded pieces. Allow to dry until leather hard.

Cut Slabs

Cut one slab into 2" squares (bottom) and the other into 2 1/2" squares (top). Set aside. You will use one of each size for each vessel. Cover squares with plastic so they don’t get too dry.

Shape Top

Choose one of the extruded pieces and cut to size to square up the top and bottom ends. Carve the top into a slight arch.

Prepare Bottom

Score and slip the bottom edges and attach the bottom slab (one of the 2" x 2" squares).

Attach Base

Push bottom slab up into the arches with thumb.

Roll Base with Tool

Roll fettling knife handle along the edges to reinforce the seam. Trim any excess clay, then smooth the edge with a wet sponge.

Shape Bottom

Cut deep arches on the bottom sides so the four corners become the feet.

Attach Top

Round and smooth the corners of a 2 1/2" square with a wet sponge. Score and slip the top edges of the extruded piece, then add the slab to the jar. There should be a slight overhang.

Shape Top

Use the Pony Roller to roll lightly over the slab to make it tight and conform to the arch.

Cut Opening

Cut a 1" square out of the center.

Cut out Lids

For the lid, roll out clay 1/8" thick. Cut out 1" squares and 1 1/2" squares (one of each size needed per lid).

Construct Lid

When leather hard, slip and score one side of the 1" square center and attach it to the center of the 1 1/2" square.

Roll Coil For Handle

For the handle, roll a clay coil approximately 3" long tapered on the ends.

Make Coil into Handle

Pick up the coil and slap it down onto the table to create one flat side. Roll up each end of the coil, flat side up.

Attach Handle to Lid

Slip and score the center of the lid top and attach the coil handle. Use a pencil or pen to press the handle on firmly.

Finished Lid

Dry, Bisque, and Glaze

Allow pieces to dry completely, then bisque fire to a mature Cone 04.

Brush on 3 coats, tapering the third towards the base of the piece. If layering with Magic Flow glazes, apply two additional coats over the top third of the pot. Do not use Magic Flow glaze on the lids or inside of the piece as it runs/flows. Wipe all glaze off the feet so they will not stick to the kiln shelf. Glaze fire to Cone 05.

Note: Use Kiln Shelf Wash on your kiln shelves to prevent sticking. Do not fire with the lids on the vessels or they will stick together.

Video