Read this tip to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. LifeTips is the place to go when you need to know about Wheel-thrown and other Ceramics topics.
Most potters learn to throw anti-clockwise and if a power wheel is used it is unlikely to be reversible. However, some experience with throwing clockwise is beneficial because it makes one analyse one's actions thoroughly. Also some clays, notably those containing only a small amount of naturally plastic clay, eg, special bodies like porcelain, sometimes tire of being turned one way only. Some tear if the leatherhard trimming (turning) is done with the same wheel direction as the throwing. In such cases throwing is done anti-clockwise and turning is done clockwise. Also after throwing many potters reverse the wheel direction and burnish the leatherhard clay surface.
Guru Spotlight |
Patricia Walters-Fischer |