DIY Network

Web Extras: Cup Variations, Brush Basics Bill Van Gilder offers some variations for cup shapes and shares tips on choosing (and using) the right brushes. From "Throwing Clay" episode DTHC-112

By changing the shape of the cup, you can make a goblet with an entirely different look. Here are some variations on goblet bowls.

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• It’s important, when making a set of matching goblets, to use the same measurements for each goblet top, or cup. Use a ruler or calipers to uniformly repeat each cup size.

• Use the same weight of clay for each cup. The pieces of clay used to make each cup will need to be of the same consistency, or degree of softness, too.

• A slightly flared shape gives a cup a simple surface on which you can decorate (figure A).

• A more traditional and simple cup shape is the rounded form (figure B).

  Figure A

  Figure B

  
  

• This swirled cup shape starts as a flairing cylinder form (figure C). Using the tip of one finger, boldly push outward against the inner wall, drawing your fingertip upward from the inside base to the rim.

• These two tall cup shapes are similar to traditional flute champagne glass forms (figure D). When attached to a tall stem form they appear tall and elegant!

  Figure C

  Figure D

  
  

The right brush can turn a so-so decorating job into a masterpiece. Here's a list of the six essential brushes you need for decorating.

Figure E

The first step in learning to decorate your pottery is purchasing your brushes. There are brushes available in all price ranges, sizes, and shapes. I recommend you purchase brushes in the lower price range until you've developed your brush skills. You’ll want a group on hand, each of a different size and shape.

Look for brushes with a sharp pointed tip and various lengths. You may want to occasionally use a flat brush also (figure E, far right) for a bold, wide line.

Each brush will make a different stroke mark. Practice with water on a sheet of newspaper or plain newsprint to learn the stroke shape each brush makes. Try a heavy-handed, bold stroke and then light, quick flicks of each brush.

• 1" long brush: bold stroke, varied line, light flick strokes (figure F, left to right).

• 1-1/2" long brush: bold stroke, varied line, light flick strokes (figure G, left to right).

• Thin-tipped 3" long brush: bold stroke, wavy stroke, jumping stroke (figure H, left to right).

Figure F

Figure G

Figure H

RESOURCES :

Kilns
L & L Kilns
Website: www.hotkilns.com

Clay
Highwater Clays
Website: www.highwaterclays.com

Extruders
American Art Clay Co. Inc. (AMACO)
Website: www.amaco.com