4.3: Slab Techniques- Functional and Sculptural Forms

Slab Forms

Plate:

1. Prepare the Clay: Wedge the clay to remove air bubbles and ensure uniform consistency.

2. Roll Out the Clay: Place the clay on the canvas of the slab roller. Adjust the thickness setting according to your preference. Roll the clay through the slab roller to create an even slab.

3. Cut Out the Shape: Use a template or freehand cut to create the desired shape of the plate from the slab. You can use a round cutter or a knife to cut the clay.

4. Shape the Plate: Place the cut-out slab onto a ware board or plaster bat. Smooth the edges and refine the shape using a rib or your hands. Create a slight curve if desired for a shallow bowl effect.

5. Add Texture or Decoration: Use texture mats, stamps, or carving tools to add designs or patterns to the surface of the plate.

6. Dry and Bisque Fire: Allow the plate to dry slowly to avoid cracking. Once completely dry, bisque fire the plate in a kiln to around cone 04-06.

Vase:

1. Prepare the Clay: Wedge the clay to remove air bubbles and ensure uniform consistency.

2. Roll Out the Clay: Place the clay on the canvas of the slab roller. Adjust the thickness setting according to your preference. Roll the clay through the slab roller to create a long, even slab.

3. Cut and Shape the Cylinder: Cut out a rectangular section of the slab. Roll it into a cylinder, ensuring the edges meet evenly. Use a rib to smooth the seam and shape the cylinder.

4. Create the Base and Neck: Flatten one end of the cylinder to create the base of the vase. Pinch and pull the opposite end to form the neck of the vase, shaping it as desired.

5. Add Handles or Details: If desired, add handles, spouts, or other decorative elements to the vase. Attach them securely using slip and scoring techniques.

6. Dry and Bisque Fire: Allow the vase to dry slowly to avoid cracking. Once completely dry, bisque fire the vase in a kiln to around cone 04-06.

Clay Canvas:

1. Prepare the Clay: Wedge the clay to remove air bubbles and ensure uniform consistency.

2. Roll Out the Clay: Place the clay on the canvas of the slab roller. Adjust the thickness setting according to your preference. Roll the clay through the slab roller to create a large, even slab.

3. Cut Out the Shape: Use a large template or freehand cut to create the desired shape of the canvas from the slab. You can create rectangular, square, or irregular shapes.

4. Smooth and Finish the Surface: Use a rib or smoothing tool to ensure the surface of the clay canvas is even and free of imperfections. Smooth the edges and refine the shape as needed.

5. Add Texture or Decoration: Experiment with texture mats, stamps, or carving tools to add interest to the surface of the clay canvas. You can also create texture by pressing objects into the clay.

6. Dry and Bisque Fire: Allow the clay canvas to dry slowly and completely. Once dry, bisque fire the canvas in a kiln to around cone 04-06.

By following these step-by-step instructions, you can create a plate, vase, and clay canvas using a slab roller in your ceramics studio. Adjust the techniques and designs to suit your personal style and creative vision.

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