How to Score and Slip

DIY POTTERY – Hand-Building

Clay can be temperamental to work with, especially when it comes to sticking two separate pieces together. Scoring and slipping is the way to connect your clay with the least chance of cracking or coming apart again!

Knowing how to properly attach clay is one of the most important things to learn when it comes to making pottery at home, whether it be handbuilt or wheel-thrown pieces!

Time

15 Minutes

Skill

Beginner

Age

Ages 8+

SUPPLIES + TOOLS

Scrap clay (low, mid or high fire)
Two or more pieces of a project to attach
Workspace Cover: Non-stick surface
Needle Tool or Wooden Skewer or Scoring Tool
Water
Small bowl or container
Optional: Rubber or Wooden Rib

PREPARATION

Prepare Your Workspace

Set up a clean, non-stick surface.
Arrange all tools and supplies for easy access.

INSTRUCTIONS

➊ Making the Slip

Set scrap clay (can be any consistency from bone dry to moist) into a bowl or small container. If making more slip than needed for just one project, consider using a container that you can seal up.
Add water. The more wet your clay is, the less water you'll need to use. Let the clay and water sit for a moment to make mixing easier.
Using your fingers, a wooden tool, or a brush, mix clay and water. Add more water as needed. The slip should be peanut butter- or yogurt-like in consistency.

➋ (Optional) Bevel the Edges

When working with slabs, you can make attaching seams easier by beveling the edges that will connect. This can be done with a bevel tool, needle tool, clay knife, or any straight edge that will cut through the clay.

➌ Scoring

Using a pointed tool (like a needle tool) or a scoring tool, scratch lines onto the attachment points of whatever you're connecting. Make lines in one direction across the entire attachment points, and then go back again in the opposite direction.
These score lines will act like a Velcro to stick your pieces of clay together.

➍ Applying Slip

Gently use your finger to apply a small amount of prepared slip over scored surfaces.
The slip acts as a glue for attaching pieces of clay.

➎ Attaching the Pieces

With clean hands, gently press the pieces of clay together, wiggling slightly to ensure a stronger bond.

➏ Smoothing Your Seam

Using your finger or a wooden or rubber rib, begin to smooth the clay from each side of the seam into itself until the seam disappears entirely.

Safety and Best Practices

Keep your work surfaces and tools clean and wet to avoid dust. Wear a dust mask if working with dry materials.
Wear protective gear when using a heat gun.
Let pieces dry slowly and evenly to prevent cracking. If you need to pause while working, cover your pottery with a wet towel or plastic wrap to keep it moist.
Follow all kiln safety instructions for bisque and glaze firings.

CLEANING AND CARING FOR HANDMADE POTTERY

Handmade pottery, with its unique charm and character, requires special care to maintain its beauty and functionality. Here are recommended guidelines to ensure your pottery stays in excellent condition for years to come.

Cleaning Handmade Pottery

General Cleaning:

Use warm, soapy water to gently wash your pottery. Avoid using harsh detergents, as they can dull the glaze or damage the surface.
Use a soft sponge or cloth to avoid scratching.
For unglazed areas, a soft brush can help remove dirt without damaging the pottery.

Removing Stains:

Mix baking soda with water to create a paste. Apply it to stained areas and gently rub with a soft cloth.
Rinse thoroughly after stain removal.

Dishwasher Use:

While some pottery is dishwasher safe, hand washing is always preferred to prevent chipping and preserve the finish.
If using a dishwasher, place pottery in a secure spot where it won't knock against other items.

Caring for Your Pottery

Avoiding Thermal Shock:

Do not subject pottery to sudden temperature changes (like taking a dish from the refrigerator and placing it in a hot oven).
Warm up pottery gradually if it needs to be exposed to high temperatures.

Microwave Use:

Ensure the pottery is marked as microwave safe.
Avoid microwaving pottery with metallic glazes or decorations.

Storing Pottery:

Stack items carefully to avoid chipping.
Place a soft cloth between items if stacking is necessary.

Repairing Damaged Pottery:

For chips or cracks, consult a professional for repair, especially for valuable or sentimental pieces.
DIY repair kits are available, but be aware that repaired pottery may not be food safe or hold liquids reliably.

Special Considerations

Food Safety:

Check your pottery for cracks, poorly sealed joints, deep texture in areas where food/drinks will touch. Cracks can leak and/or allow moisture into the body of the clay. In addition, cracks and deep texture can harbor bacteria which can make you sick.
Check for sharp edges, points or bubbles from glaze. Be careful when checking sharp areas to avoid cuts.
For mugs, ensure the handle and mug are fully attached and are not weakly joined. Handles that are not properly joined, are thin or weakly constructed can break under the force of a filled cup causing injury.

Displaying Pottery:

Keep pottery out of direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Avoid placing pottery in areas with high humidity or temperature fluctuations.

Longevity Tips:

Treat handmade pottery with care and respect; it’s not just a functional item but a piece of art.
Regularly inspect for any signs of wear or damage.

Remember, handmade pottery carries the touch and spirit of the artist. Proper care will ensure it remains a cherished part of your collection for years to come.

Share your project using the hashtag #smashedstudioproject and earn points to use toward your next purchase.

1. Make the Slip

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2. Bevel the Edges (Optional)

Watch Video