Centering clay on the wheel is one of the first and most crucial steps in creating pottery. It can also be one of the most challenging, especially for beginners. But don’t worry, with the right techniques and a little patience, you’ll be centering like a pro in no time. Let’s dive into some common problems, best clay choices, centering methods, the importance of wheel speed, and some great exercises to help you improve.
One of the biggest hurdles in centering is using the wrong type of clay or not preparing it properly. Some common issues include clay that’s too soft (causing it to collapse) or too hard (making it difficult to manipulate). It’s essential to select a clay with the right balance for wheel work. Also, inadequate moisture can make the clay dry and hard to center, while too much water can make it sticky and unstable. Proper wedging is also key, as skipping this step can result in uneven clay consistency and air bubbles, making centering much harder. Air bubbles, incorrect posture, applying too much force, releasing your hands too quickly, and incorrect wheel speed can all cause problems, so keeping these in mind can help you get that perfect center.
Proper clay preparation is key for successful centering. Wedging removes air bubbles and ensures a uniform consistency, making the clay easier to manipulate on the wheel. Taking the time to wedge thoroughly can save a lot of frustration later on in the process.
When you’re starting out, choosing the right clay can make a huge difference. Stoneware clays are often recommended because they’re versatile and easy to use. They’re plastic enough for wheel throwing and hand-building and can be fired at mid to high temperatures, resulting in strong, functional pieces. Laguna’s B-Mix 5, a blend of porcelain and stoneware, is a popular choice for its smooth texture and excellent plasticity. Amaco’s #46 Buff Stoneware Clay is also a good option, known for its smooth texture and good flexibility, making it easier to center and throw. Earthenware clays are also suitable, especially for low-fire ceramics, as they are highly plastic and hold their shape well. Activa Blackjack Low Fire Clay is a natural clay blend with a smooth texture, making it easy to work with. To learn more about different types of clay, check out this article on clay types.
- Stoneware Clays: Versatile and easy to use, suitable for both wheel throwing and hand-building.
- Laguna’s B-Mix 5: Known for its smooth texture and excellent plasticity.
- Amaco’s #46 Buff Stoneware Clay: Good flexibility, making it easier to center and throw.
- Earthenware Clays: Highly plastic and ideal for low-fire ceramics.
- Activa Blackjack Low Fire Clay: Smooth texture, making it easy to work with.
There are several methods for centering clay, each with its own approach. The “cone and push” method involves coning the clay upwards and then compressing it back down, which aligns the clay particles and removes air pockets. Spiral wedging, done before you even put the clay on the wheel, is another way to remove air bubbles and align the particles. “Slap centering” uses quick, directed slaps with dry hands to move the clay closer to the center before final centering. Other methods include one-sided centering, the braced palm method (great for larger amounts of clay), and pulling and pushing methods, each offering a unique way to tackle the challenge. You can also read about other essential wheel throwing techniques to expand your knowledge.
This video gives a great beginner’s guide to pulling up the walls of a pot. It’s a crucial step in pottery and this guide makes it easy to follow.
Cone and Push Method: Coning the clay upwards and then compressing it back down to align clay particles and remove air pockets.
Slap Centering: Quick, directed slaps with dry hands to move the clay closer to the center before final centering.
Wheel speed is also a critical factor. A higher wheel speed is generally better for centering, as it utilizes centripetal force to help align the clay particles. However, it’s a balance, as too much speed can make things unstable, especially when you’re learning. The amount of clay matters too; smaller amounts can handle higher speeds, while larger amounts need slower speeds to maintain control. Once you’ve centered, you’ll want to slow down the wheel for throwing and trimming to maintain control.
“Finding the right wheel speed is crucial. Start fast for centering, but slow down as you form your piece to maintain control.”
An Experienced Potter
To really master centering, practice is key. Start with wedging exercises to get your clay consistent. Practice coning repeatedly to build muscle memory. Anchor your arms to your body to stabilize yourself, and focus on controlled, deliberate hand movements. Pay attention to your body position, keeping your back straight and leaning into the clay. Try slap centering to get the clay roughly in place, and create a buttress at the base of the mound for stability. Adjust your wheel speed as needed to maintain control. With consistent practice, you’ll develop the skills and muscle memory to center clay effectively and with confidence!
Remember: consistency in practice is key to mastering the art of centering clay!
