In this blog, I'll guide you through sculpting a Ceramic Vase (Kiln Fired). It's an ideal project for beginners, with straightforward instructions on each step of the vase-making process.
Apply these principles and you will be able to create a unique design of your own.
Join me and create your own vase today!
Tutorial: Vase
Level: Easy Sculpting
Equipment needed :
Clayplay kiln fire kit or 1kg Stoneware clay and tool kit.
A little bit of water
Rolling Pin or bottle
2 pencils
Cup of water
Banding wheel/turntable
Access to a kiln to fire and glaze (note: white glaze is included in Clay Play kits)
Video Transcription:
1.Roll out your base:
Take a quarter of the clay and roll it into a 1cm thick piece using a rolling pin or glass bottle.
Flipping clay over as you go to ensure even thickness.
Use pencils as guidelines to maintain even consistency.
Cut out a round base using a dish with the needle tool from the tool kit.
2. build the vase walls:
Roll a coil long enough to go around the base. Score the coil and the base. Apply slip to base of clay by adding water and blending them together.
Attach the coils to the base by pressing them down and blend the seams using a wooden tool or finger.
Repeat the process of adding coils and blending until desired height is reached. Making sure that you maintain even thickness throughout your piece.
3. Creating the neck:
Add a neck to your vase by reducing the coil length bit by bit by placing on the edge of the bottom coil.
4. Finishing Touches:
Let the vase dry until leather hard.
Use a grater to even out any high points.
Add details if desired, such as carving lines, patterns etc.
Smooth out the surface using a wet sponge.
Ensure the vase dries in a controlled environment.
5.Checking Readiness for Firing:
Tap the mug. A hollow sound indicates dryness.
Place a water drop on the pottery. If it disappears quickly, it's ready to fire
6. Firing:
Once completely dry, which can take up to two weeks, the mug is ready for bisque firing.
Once fired, sand an clean with wet sponge and allow to dry before applying glaze and glaze firing.
Always make sure to account for clay shrinkage, which is typically between 10% and 12% ( check your clay specs) and using protective measures like wrapping with plastic to ensure even drying and less chances of cracking.
If you're interested please watch the video tutorial or if you have any questions, visit Clay Play on YouTube or at www.clayplay.co.nz