How to Make a Clay Slab Plate

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August 28, 2024 2 min read

A good "slab" plate is a staple in our kitchen. They're a great beginners clay project and require few ceramic tools to make.

Start out with a ball of clay. Remember that clay shrinks and you'll need to account for that when determining how much clay to use. A larger plate will require more clay etc.

1. Flatten clay ball with the palm of your hand.

2. Use a rolling pin (an empty bottle, or other rounded object) to roll out a slab of clay. Make sure to flip and rotate clay to ensure an even slab thickness and reduce air bubbles.

3. Roll slab out until it is larger than desired plate size, keeping mind of thickness.

4.Use a pin tool (or sharp pencil) to cut a circle the size of your desired plate from slab. You can freehand a circle or trace another plate for the perfect cut.

5. For a more organic clay look, try freehand cutting the circle. Don't forget, having unique and one of a kind plates is part of the fun.

6. Very gently lift plate walls inward, supporting wall on both sides, and slowly rotating the plate until all sides are complete.

7. Continue smoothing out walls and edges using fingers to support the walls. Use a sponge that has been squeezed out to gently smooth the edges. Avoid overworking clay, additional smoothing can be done once plate is more dry.

8. Carve, decorate, or paint with underglazes if desired.

Please note: if you're intending to eat off of this than make sure your clay is food safe after firing. Since we're just practicing, we won't worry about the final product and will instead practice the form.

One lump of clay can go a long way, so destroy it and try again!

If you'd like to keep this and fire it a your local ceramic studio then rest the plate on a flat surface and allow to slowly dry. Once bone dry it is ready to be fired.