The document describes the process of slab construction in ceramic hand-building. It outlines 5 key steps:
1) Squish it - Roll out the clay slab to a uniform thickness using a roller, pin, or hands.
2) Score and slip it - Score both pieces to be joined and apply slip for adhesion.
3) Snake it - Create a reinforced edge using a coil and tool to ensure no trapped air.
4) Smooth it - Use tools and fingers to smooth edges and remove excess, being careful not to use too much slip.
5) Style it - Add personal touches and details to tell a story or message.
2. Slab Construction Slabs are basically flat pancakes attached to one another. Slabs can be made by using; A slab roller A rolling pin Your hands (think mud pies from back in the day.)
3. 1. Squish it Roll out your slab using a slab roller or rolling pin. For smaller slabs you can use your hands! Important! Make your slab with a uniformed thickness. The whole thing should be flat without high and low spots. No, this is not my hairy hand!
4. 1. Score and slip Score with a needle or loop. Prepare your slip. Important! Always score both pieces that you are going to attach to one another. My, what nice scores you have.
5. 1. Snake it Using a coil and a smooth tool create a reinforced edge. Important! Make sure to really press into the coil so there is not trapped air. Remember…TRAPPED AIR IS THE ENEMY! Look, he’s doing the snake.
6. 1. Smooth it Using a little slip and some nice tools (which include your fingers) smooth out the edges and clean up any snake bits that still may be around. Important! Don’t use to much slip or you will have saggy and unstable clay. Remember…A finished pot is a happy pot. Smooth as a baby’s bottom.
