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Making and painting pottery has always been appealing and challenging. It's very satisfying and exciting to make your own pottery, especially if you have an artistic, creative flair. Even if you're a complete novice at making pottery and you have never made your own clay pot, you can use the steps outlined below to guide you in making your own pinch pot. Once you make your pot you can also do some research to learn how to paint, glaze and fire clay pots. The tips below will show you how to make pottery by hand and throw pots on a potter's wheel. Start by obtaining some good quality clay. It should be easy to get at a local potter's studio, but if the studio doesn't sell clay they should at least be able to let you know where you can buy it. Arts and crafts shops can also be great sources of good quality clay, and don't forget that you can always buy it online. It's possible to bake some types of clay at home in your oven, but you will be unable to do this with other types. Set up a workspace or other area where you can work. It will become pretty messy so choose your space with that in mind. You also need to make sure your workspace is large enough and has easy access to a supply of water. If you want to use your kitchen table, you should cover its surface with newspapers and use a large cutting board. Keep your paintbrushes, tools, towels and rags and other supplies handy. Take your main clay brick and cut off some clay using a piece of fishing wire or un-waxed dental floss. The piece you cut off should fit into the palm of your hand. Moisten this clay and begin molding it into a ball. Check the texture regularly and add enough water to keep the clay pliable and easy to mold but still able to retain its shape. You need some patience while you are working the clay. Push all the way down into the center, and then pinch and create the sides of the bowl until they measure inch. If the clay starts breaking you can use water to repair the cracks. Whenever the clay becomes too wet or slippery, you should dry it with a rag or towel. This process means you need to be very patient when you create a pinch pot. Once you get the shape right with the right amount of thickness in the walls, smooth the sides of the bowl with a wet brush and allow the bowl to dry. Once your bowl is dry the next step is to bake it to make sure the clay is hardened. If the clay you have used is not the type to be popped into your oven at home then take it to a professional kiln. Once it is fired, your pinch pot is ready for decoration or painting. This pot making can be a family project that kids will enjoy. Not only will they take great pride in creating something beautiful and useful but they can make the pot to reflect their own personality and style.
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Marion Clarke is a recognized expert in Pottery Art and has many tips and pointers to get you creating wonderful pottery pieces in your own home!
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