How to Center Clay - A Beginner's Guide

Learn the essential techniques for centering clay on a potter's wheel in this comprehensive 17-minute video tutorial. Master the art of wedging, proper wheel positioning, and effective clay manipulation. Discover tips for achieving the perfect centered shape, managing wheel speed, and avoiding common pitfalls. Gain insights on water usage, hand positioning, and the crucial coning process. Perfect for beginners and those looking to refine their pottery skills, this guide covers everything from preparing clay to removing hands without introducing wobble, emphasizing the fundamental importance of centering in pottery creation.

- Introduction and discussing the importance of preparing clay, wedging
- What shape to make the wedged up balls of clay
- How to sit at the wheel properly
- Positioning of left arm, the 'anchor'
- How to slam the clay down effectively
- How to position left arm and push upper body weight onto the clay
- Water/slip usage
- Using little finger to seal the base of the clay
- Introducing vertical pressure
- The centred shape I'm after
- Scraping the ball of clay if it feels gritty
- Discussing the speed of the wheel
- How to position hands as to not grind your skin
- Pinching fingers and focusing on stability
- Using the leftover 'skim' of clay to help stick down the balls of clay
- Coning the clay
- How to remove your hands from the clay as not to introduce a wobble
- The importance of centring