How to: Throwing a small bowl on the pottery wheel (with trimming bonus)

Here's how you can learn to throw a small bowl on the pottery wheel. Throwing small things is probably the most fun. I like to see things take shape quickly and I also like being able to throw using only my hands - and little tools as necessary.
I start by using 3/4 lb of stoneware clay. I'll open up the centered clay, leaving enough clay at the bottom for a foot. Then, throw a straight-walled cylinder. Once you've reached the desired height you can open up the cylinder into a bowl shape. Rest the tip of your finger on the inside bottom and slowly pivot your hand outward - keeping that finger resting there for as long as possible. Your outside hand can be gently supporting the wall. After the bowl is opened, using gentle pressure, draw the curve of the wall with your finger tip. The inside finger should be lower than the outside. The inside hand will do the shaping and again, the outside hand will support the wall. Finally, clean up the inside with a rib and clean the rim with a sponge.
In a day or two of slowly drying, the clay will be leather hard - meaning it won't distort with handling - and it will be ready to trim.
Thanks for watching!
Etsy - www.etsy.com/shop/aworkofstoneware
Instagram - aworkofstoneware

[@Louise-lv2hz]

Love your clear description .

[@yukonswimmom]

Recovering from a hand injury right now and your techniques are different than what I have seen before. I think I'm going to try your method of opening the bowl. Thanks so much for the video!

[@Alexander-rq9he]

It’s quite beautiful the way you lock your fingers for opening and compressing..

[@nirin8993]

This is so calming :) Nice bowl.

[@aworkofstoneware6873]

Thank you!

[@mosseyw]

Beautiful

[@jackiemorrison6024]

Nice!!

[@aworkofstoneware6873]

Thanks!

[@fayebeth]

Where is the firm double sided white trimming tool from? I've been looking for a trimming tool that has a flat end with curved sides! Thanks :)

[@thomasportelli9906]

Nice little bowl ! What is the song ? So peacefull

[@aworkofstoneware6873]

Thanks, I get all my music from Artlist.io The tracks are by Salt of the Sound, Lance Conrad, and One Man Bend (in that order).

[@johnonorgan]

the music is putting me to sleep

[@installer18yrs]

You used at least four tools, not just your fingers.

[@jennysutherland5761]

Lifsong camp and the girls 👭 you are the