| Production throwing by Andrew Russell. |
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The clay is thrown onto the wheel head, in this case the potter is throwing onto ceramic tiles. This makes handling the finished piece much easier and reduces the chance of spoiling. This method of throwing on tiles is preferred by production potters as it speeds up the throwing process. The ware is cut from the tiles when leather hard - when the clay is firm enough to be handled without mis-shaping the form. |
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The clay is centred on the wheel. Pressure is applied to the side of the clay with the right hand as the wheel is turning at speed. The left hand on the top, controls the upward movement. |
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The clay is formed into a cone by even pressure from both hands which forces the clay upwards. |
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The clay is then forced back down into the wheelhead. This action, known as coning, is repeated several times. This expels any air trapped in the clay and also rids the clay of any "knots" or areas of uneven consistency |
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The clay is then opened up from the centre... |
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... and the base of the pot is formed. |
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The sides of the pot are then thrown, pulling the ring of clay upwards with the knuckle.... |
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... even pressure is used on the inside and outside of the wall of the clay - the clay is squeezed rather like toothpaste in its tube. |
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The sides of the pot are thrown into a cylinder. This shape is the basis of most thrown pots - unless open bowls are being made. |
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The piece is then shaped carefully, using the inside hand to push outwards to create the belly of the pot. |
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Finally, the rim of the pot is thrown and compressed gently using the fingers. This helps prevent warping during drying and firing. |
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The piece is lifted from the wheelhead to dry. A new tile is placed on the wheel and the process starts again. This process will take approximately 45 - 60 seconds. |
