The base and coils

The Base & Coils

Right, let's get our hands into the clay and start building the base of our vase, and then move on to rolling and stacking coils. This is where things get really tactile and fun.

You will need

• A tea towel, an old sheet, or some cardboard/newspaper to roll on
• Measuring guides (sticks or books work fine)
• A knife or a lid to cut out your base shape
• A turntable (cheaper versions available on Amazon) (or a makeshift version, like a folded newspaper or a chopping board)

Rolling the Base

To begin, we're going to roll out a flat slab of clay for the bottom of the vase.

Steps:

1. place your clay on the fabric or surface
2. put your measuring guides on either side, and roll your clay between them to get an even thickness
3. cut your base shape. It can be round, oval, or completely unique - use a lid, stencil, or trace it freehand with your finger and a knife.

It doesn't have to be perfect. The imperfections are part of your imprint.

Place your base on a surface that's easy to move (like wood or thick card) so you can turn it easily as you build.

Understanding Clay Types

The type of clay you're using matters, especially if you're firing it. This is what you should know:

• check the firing temperature (earthenware is lower, stoneware is higher)
• look at the texture - is it smooth or gritty?
• is it air-dry, or does it need to be fired in a kiln?

Always tell the person firing your piece what kind of clay it is - otherwise, it might melt or explode. Not ideal.

The clay I'm using has little fibres in it, which helps make it strong, even when bone dry. It can be fired to either earthenware (1180°C) or stoneware temperatures (between 1200°C and 1300°C), and I tend to fire my work to stoneware for that lovely, vitrified finish.

Making Your Coils

Now we move on to rolling coils - these are the building blocks of your vase walls.

How to roll a coil:

1. grab a chunk of clay, give it a good squidge (technical term)
2. roll it between your palms first, then on the table
3. use the whole length of your hands, starting in the centre and stretching outward.

You're aiming for coils about the thickness of your finger. Too thin, and your walls may collapse. Too uneven, and you'll have weak spots.

The trick is to be gentle. If you're too rough and it goes thin, start again. No drama.

Make 4-5 coils to begin with. They'll dry quickly, so keep an eye on the texture. You can use slightly stiffer coils at the bottom of your build to give extra stability.

Tips for Success

• Let the clay dry in stages if you're building tall - it can't hold itself up if it's too soft.
• Avoid air pockets - press and roll carefully.
• Be mindful of moisture - it affects strength.
• If you're planning to fire your piece, handle the clay thoughtfully. No random re-rolling or trapped air.

The Power of Clay

Working with clay is deeply meditative. It absorbs you, mirrors you. It's a dance, a conversation between you and this ancient material. This clay, even processed, still holds the memory of stone, formed over millions of years. You feel that when you work with it. You're holding a bit of the earth's story in your hands.

It's before your time, before mine. That's the real gift of it.

In the next lesson, we'll start building upwards with coils - joining them to the base and shaping the form. Bring your attention and curiosity. Let's go slow and steady.