For years, the rhythmic hum of the potter’s wheel has been my constant companion. But lately, a yearning for new creative horizons has led me to the captivating world of handbuilding, especially slab pottery. The allure of crafting unique, handcrafted pieces with my own two hands is simply irresistible!
As I delve deeper into this exciting realm, I find myself particularly drawn to ceramic platters. While I’m well-versed in throwing platters on the wheel, the efficiency of slab building, especially for someone with limited studio time, is undeniable. I’m on a quest to discover the perfect slab pottery project, one that’s both elegant and easily repeatable.
Birdie Boone’s Slab Pottery Magic: Unveiling the Secrets of “Simple Elegance”
My search for inspiration recently led me to the incredible work of Birdie Boone, a true master of her craft. In her video “Simple Elegance: Slab Building & Glaze Color Exploration,” she unveils a technique so simple yet ingenious, it’s left me completely captivated.
Imagine this: a plain slab of clay transformed into a stunningly elegant serving platter, all thanks to a cleverly crafted oval template! The best part? You can easily adapt this technique to any shape you desire, unleashing endless creative possibilities.
“Birdie’s work is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in ceramic art. Her slab-built platters are a perfect blend of form and function, proving that you don’t need complex techniques to create stunning, handcrafted pieces.” – Emily Carter, Ceramic Artist and Instructor
Creating Your Own Masterpiece: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to embark on your own slab pottery adventure? Here’s a detailed breakdown of Birdie’s process, infused with my own insights and tips:
1. Gathering Your Supplies: The Building Blocks of Creativity
Before we dive in, let’s ensure we have everything at hand. You’ll need:
- Clay: Your choice of clay body, preferably a stoneware or porcelain for durability.
- Rolling Pin or Slab Roller: To achieve a consistent slab thickness.
- Template: An oval shape is a classic choice, but feel free to experiment!
- Needle Tool: For precisely cutting out your platter shapes.
- Pony Roller: This handy tool helps refine shapes, compress seams, and add decorative elements.
- Metal Rib: Essential for smoothing surfaces and compressing clay.
- Surform: Ideal for removing excess clay and refining seams.
- Hump Mold: To support your platter as it dries and help maintain its shape.
- Rubber Rib: A versatile tool for shaping, compressing, and smoothing clay.
- Wooden Modeling Tools: For refining details and adding texture.
- Magic Water: A potter’s best friend for creating strong, seamless joins.
2. Shaping Your Platter: From Slab to Stunning Centerpiece
Now, let’s breathe life into our clay:
- Roll It Out: Begin by rolling out a slab of clay to your desired thickness, about ¼ inch is ideal for platters. Using a drywall board to support your slab helps to draw out moisture evenly.
- Trace Your Template: Place your chosen template onto the clay slab and carefully trace around it using a needle tool.
- Create the Girdle: The girdle adds both structure and visual interest to your platter. Cut out a separate strip of clay that’s slightly wider than the perimeter of your platter base. This will be wrapped around the edge later.
- Elevate with a Foot: For a professional touch, add a foot ring to your platter. A simple coil of clay attached to the underside of the base does the trick.
3. Adding the Finishing Touches: Refining Form and Function
With the basic shape in place, it’s time to refine our masterpiece:
- Seamlessly Smooth: Pay close attention to smoothing out any rough edges or seams using your fingers, a damp sponge, or a rubber rib. This ensures a polished look and prevents any weak points.
- Decorative Delights: This is where your creativity can truly shine! Experiment with carving, stamping, or adding textured elements to personalize your platter.
- Drying with Care: Allow your platter to dry slowly and evenly, turning it periodically to prevent warping. Patience is key in pottery – rushing the drying process can lead to cracks.
From Studio to Table: Showcasing Your Handcrafted Platter
Once your platter has been bisque fired, it’s ready for the final magical touch – glazing! Choose glazes that complement the shape and style of your piece. A clear glaze can beautifully showcase the natural texture of the clay, while vibrant colors add a touch of personality.
“A handcrafted platter isn’t just a serving dish; it’s a work of art, a conversation starter, and a testament to the enduring beauty of handmade objects. Sharing a meal on a piece you’ve poured your heart and soul into elevates the entire dining experience.” – Robert Kline, Robert Kline Art
So, go ahead, unleash your inner artist and create a platter that reflects your unique style! I invite you to share your pottery journey with me and fellow art enthusiasts in the comments below. Let’s inspire each other to explore the endless possibilities of handcrafted pottery!
And be sure to browse the exquisite collection of handcrafted gifts available on our website, Robert Kline Art. You’re sure to find the perfect, one-of-a-kind piece to treasure for years to come.