This video shows how to make a flat-bottomed plate on the pottery wheel with a slab. This is the narrated version of the video. The ASMR version with ambient studio sounds is available at    • Making a Slab Plate on the Pottery Wh...  

This is a fun way to make a plate that is quick and great for beginners or advanced makers. First, roll out a slab. In this video, I'm using a portable slab roller but you can also use a rolling pin. Next, smooth one side of the slab, unless you want canvas texture on the bottom of your plate.

Then, transfer your slab to the wheel putting the smooth side down. It is very important to use some kind of absorbent bat for this style of plate. In this video, I'm using a Hydrobat, but you can also use a plaster, wood, or composite bat. You could try this with a plastic bat, but it may be harder to dry the piece successfully.

Once the slab is on the wheel, smooth and cut it to your desired width. I'm cutting this one to about 12 inches wide. Then smooth the edge and next, raise the edge with a wooden knife. Start slowly and make sure to not push any balls of clay underneath the edge. After you have lifted the edge with a wooden tool, you can switch to a sponge to further raise the edge. It could be any angle that works for you.

Then, the piece needs to dry for a few days under plastic. When it is leather hard, bring it back to the wheel. Flip it, and trim or clean up any irregularities. Then dry it carefully under plastic. When it is bone dry, bisque fire it.

The next step is cleaning off any dust, glazing, and then firing again.

That's it! A fun way to make a plate that is quick and can give you beautiful results. Have fun.


Connect with me:
Instagram:   / mattmerkelhess  
TikTok:   / mattmerkelhess  
Website: https://www.merkelhess.com/