Ceramics: Sgraffito Coil Pot

SGRAFFITO COIL POT

For your next project you are going to construct a symmetrical coil pot using the traditional coil method.  You will need to smooth the surface inside and out, then apply the sgraffito technique on the outer surface.  Your sgraffito design must show Movement.

SKETCH:

You must sketch at least 2 different shapes to your coil pot, and choose your favorite one.  The shape must be visually pleasing AND be physically stable.

TEMPLATE:  You will make a template of the profile of your project to use while constructing.

You will also need to draw a different design on each one that evokes the feeling of movement.

 

CONSTRUCTION:

1)  Circular base:  roll a slab and cut a 5" or 6" diameter circle

2)  Roll your first coil to be thicker than the rest for sturdiness.  The placement of the coil on the base depends on the shape of your profile.  If it needs to get narrower, then you put it on the inside of the edge of the base.  If it needs to grow straight up, you place it right on the edge.  If you need it to angle outwards, you place it on the outside of the edge.

3)  Smooth coil to the inside of the vase using finger or clay tool.

4)  After adding 3 or 4 coils, smooth the outside of the coil pot.  Always support the inside or outside when smoothing.

5)  Cover well with your bag in between days, and use a paper towel over the weekends.  You want the bottom of the pot to get to leather hard so it can withstand the pressure of the layers on top of it.