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Rooted in Clay Pottery by Shana Brautigam |
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Pin Pinching Techniquesching Techniques We make our pots using the technique of pinching. Each pot begins as a solid ball of clay and is slowly pinched and stretched. We work on each pot in stages, pinching, and then allowing the clay to rest and stiffen. When we return to the piece the clay is firm enough to hold its shape but still workable. We continue to stretch the clay from the inside, expanding its form and creating thin even walls. Before the pot is finished we often texture the clay using natural objects from our surroundings. Texturing our pots is a way to record the time and place of each pot's creation. In winter we use evergreens and nutshells, in spring fiddlehead ferns, and in summer and fall a wide variety of leaves. This method of pottery-making creates a deep connection between ourselves and each pot. Pinching a Vase at Different Stages:
For step-by-step instructions on pinching a vase see our article: "Pinched Pottery," in Pottery Making Illustrated, May/June 2005.
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Home Studio Pottery Wood-Firing Teaching Upcoming Events Galleries & Shops contact: shana@rootedinclay.com Rooted in Clay 208 Middle Winchendon Rd. Rindge NH 03461 (603)899-3120
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