Are you in the middle of an important creative project for a client and feel a little stuck? Grab some clay and make a pinch pot to fire-up your creativity. This simple hand-building technique, the introductory project in most beginner ceramic classes, is a fun creative exercise that will help free your mind and push you through your creative block.
What exactly is a pinch pot? A pinch pot is a small clay vessel (bowls and cups) that is formed and shaped without the aid of a potters wheel, instead exclusively by hand. This pinch method dates back to China some 17,000 years ago and its popularity has spanned many cultures around the globe. Since a potter wheel is not needed to make a pinch pot, this form of pottery is highly accessible. Another plus, the act of wedging the clay in your hands to form the foundation of the pot allows you to lose yourself into your thoughts. This deep focus and slow pace process is a great exercise to ease creative block.
How to Make a Pinch Pot:
Type of Clay: Air Dry Clay
- Roll the clay in to ball using your hands – approx. the size of an orange,
- Then, create a center hold by pressing your thumb directly in the center of the ball approx 1/2 way down,
- Pinch and Turn (repeat) approximately 5 minutes. I suggest setting a timer. Move in a circular motion. – consistent motion.
- Lastly gently grip the sides of the clay and start pinching the the clay slowly, while turning it.
- Add a base or foot to your pot by joining a small piece of clay formed string. Score the pot along the bottom edge and moisturize with water. Adhere the clay to the bottom and join clay to clay. Flick the foot to ensure that it securely on the pot.
Extras:
No Plain Jane: Add embellishments to make your pot stand out. Consider using stamps, mini craft plastic or wood letters, etc.
Need to pause making your pinch pot? Just store your clay ball in a damp cloth and place on a plate and inside a plastic bag. This will prevent your clay from drying out.
Foot Action: Always score and add moisture Whenever you are adding an object to your pottery Score and add moisture when adding a foot
Lobster Claw Method: formed and shaped by hand using a methodical pinching process in which the clay walls are thinned by pinching them with thumb and forefinger.
Become One with the Clay: Playing around with figuring out the steadiness of the material and how to control it in thew sculpting
Tips: To ensure a smooth even top of the pot, just tap it gently on the table a few times until you reach the level of satisfaction.
Is it Pinch or Form?: Even though the name of the pot is “pinch” you are actually “forming” the clay. So resist the urge to pinch and then out the clay.
The After-Party: Take this new skill of yours to sculpt more elaborate clay projects. The act of sitting and feeling the clay in your hand will unlock your creative mind.