Handbuilding Basics: A Simple Guide for Beginners
Pottery is a fun and hands-on way to get creative. If you’re new to working with clay, handbuilding is the perfect place to start. It’s easy, doesn’t require many tools, and you can make all kinds of fun (and functional) pieces.
In this guide, I’ll show you three simple techniques to get you started: pinching, coiling, and slab building. Each one is beginner-friendly and a great way to create something unique. Plus, I’ve added short videos so you can follow along step-by-step.
1. Pinching
Pinching is one of the easiest ways to shape clay. It’s great for small projects and getting a feel for how the clay moves in your hands:
Roll a piece of clay into a smooth ball.
Press your thumb into the middle to make a small hole.
Use your fingers and thumb to gently pinch the sides, shaping it into a bowl or cup.
It’s simple, quick, and perfect for making little bowls and cups—or you can join two pinch pots together to create bud vases, jars, or even the body of a creature.
Watch me make a pinch pot step by step! This quick video shows how easy and fun handbuilding with clay can be.
2. Coiling
Coiling is a fun way to build bigger pieces like pots or vases:
Roll your clay into long, even ropes (these are called coils).
Stack the coils on top of each other to build the shape you want.
Smooth them out or leave them visible for a textured look—it’s up to you!
This technique is really flexible, so you can play around with different patterns and designs.
Learn how to make pottery using the coiling technique! This video shows you how to roll and stack coils to create unique and sturdy clay forms.
3. Slab Building
Slab building is great for making shapes with clean edges and straight lines. It’s perfect for things like trays or planters:
Use a rolling pin to flatten the clay into even sheets.
Cut out shapes using a clay tools, a knife, or cookie cutters.
Join the shapes together by scoring the edges and adding water, vinegar or slip to stick them together.
Slab building is perfect for letting your imagination run wild with structured designs.
Watch how to create pottery using the slab building technique! This video guides you through rolling, cutting, and assembling clay slabs to make beautiful, functional pieces.
Tips for Getting Started
Keep your clay covered: Wrap your clay in plastic when you’re not using it so it doesn’t dry out.
Score and slip: Always score and add slip when you’re joining pieces together. It’ll help keep everything sturdy.
Let hollow pieces breathe: Add a small hole to any hollow forms to let air escape during firing and prevent explosions in the kiln.
Have fun and experiment: Don’t stress about getting everything perfect. Play around and see what you can create!
Enhance Your Handbuilding Experience
To make your pottery journey even more enjoyable, check out these items from our store:
Potters Stain Kit: Add colour to your creations with a variety of stains that can be mixed into clay or applied to the surface for unique effects.
Cesco Underglaze Kit: Perfect for painting designs or adding bold, vibrant colours to your work before glazing.
Pottery Tool Kit: Includes all the basic tools you’ll need for handbuilding, from cutting and shaping to smoothing and decorating.
Detailing Tool Kit: Great for adding intricate designs, textures, and finishing touches to your pieces.
Handbuilding is all about enjoying the process and creating something with your own hands. These three techniques are easy to learn and give you so many options to explore. Have a go and see where your imagination takes you!
If you try these out, I’d love to see what you make. Share your creations by tagging @neighbourhood ceramics on Instagram!