How to Make Slab-Built Pottery Projects: A Step-by-Step Guide
Slab-built pottery is a versatile technique that allows you to create a wide variety of ceramic projects, from functional pieces to decorative art. If you’re new to slab building or looking to refine your technique, follow this step-by-step guide to get started. The first step in any slab-built pottery project is to create your clay slabs. If you don’t have a slab roller, don’t worry! You can still make perfect slabs using simple tools. Follow this guide to get started.
Materials Needed:
- Flexible Red Sherrill Mud Tool – To smooth seams and edges.
- Yellow Sherrill Mud Tool Rib – For smoothing and shaping your slabs.
- 3 Different Mud Sponges or one mudsponge – To round and smooth surfaces.
- Template – To cut your slabs to the desired size and shape.
- Stanley Sure Form – For refining and smoothing rough areas.
- Scoring Tool – To join pieces together.
Steps for Slab-Built Projects:
- Make Your Clay Slabs
Roll out your slabs of clay and use a Yellow Sherrill Mud Tool Rib to smooth the surface. Allow the slabs to stiffen to a soft leather-hard stage before you begin constructing your project. - Use a Template to Cut Your Slabs
Once your slabs are leather-hard, use a template to cut them into the desired shapes. This ensures consistency and accuracy for your project. - Bevel the Edges for Joining
For pieces that need to be joined together, bevel the edges to create a better fit. This helps ensure a strong connection between the pieces. - Slip and Score the Edges
Score the edges of both slabs that you will be joining, and apply slip to create a strong bond. Once joined, press the edges together firmly. - Smooth the Seams
Use a flexible red Sherrill Mud Tool to smooth out the seams where the slabs meet. If you’d like to incorporate the seam as part of the design, you can leave it visible for added texture and character. - Explore Different Slab Projects
If you’re unsure what to create, explore slab-built project ideas online or through tutorials. You can find inspiration for various projects such as planters, mugs, or decorative tiles. - Use a Mold for Support
To shape your slabs, you can use slump or hump molds. These molds help you form consistent curves or shapes. Smooth the clay onto the mold with the flexible red Sherrill Mud Tool for a refined finish. - Refine the Surface
After shaping your project, use a Stanley Sure Form to smooth out rough areas or excess clay. This tool helps you achieve clean, polished edges. - Round and Smooth with a Sponge
Finally, use a mud sponge to gently round out and smooth any rough or sharp edges on your piece. This ensures a professional and refined look before firing.
Additional Tips:
- Experiment with Design: Don’t be afraid to leave seams visible or incorporate texture as part of the design.
- Explore Project Ideas: If you’re stuck on what to make, check out slab project ideas online for inspiration.
By following these steps and using the right tools, you’ll be able to create beautiful and functional slab-built pottery projects. With practice, you’ll improve your technique and expand your creativity in slab-building.