DIY Network

Server Handles and Darts in Clay Bill Van Gilder adds vertical bamboo and reed handles to the servers. From "Throwing Clay" episode DTHC-202

Master potter Bill Van Gilder is making double-bowl servers in two different sizes. After throwing the bowls and joining then together, he added textured clay handles close to the rim of the bowls. Next, he glazed the bowls using two contrasting colors.

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As a final finishing touch for the servers, Bill adds vertical bamboo and reed handles, both natural elements that complement clay.

1. Bamboo handles, available at clay-supply stores, are added to the small double-bowl. For the larger server, he uses circular basket reed, available at hobby shops. The reed will soak in water for 24 hours before being shaped.

2. Bill considers the size and shape of the clay handles, making sure the handles fit the bowl shape. He weaves the reed back and forth through the clay handles three times. Wire twists secure and hold the sides of the handles in place while Bill trims the ends of the reed close to the clay handles (figure A).

3. To secure the ends, he uses a flat basket reed, used for caning chairs. Holding the end of the reed with a fingertip, he wraps it around the lower portion of the reed handle 4 to 5 times. Because the reed has also been soaked in water, it will tighten up as it dries, forming a tight grip around the handle (figure B).

Figure A

Figure B

4. Just like tying a shoe, Bill pulls the ends back through when he's finished wrapping the handle (figure C) and removes the twist ties (figure D).

Figure C

Figure D

Guest Potters

	Figure E
	Figure F
	Figure G

Husband-and-wife potters Neal Patterson and Sandi Pierantozzi live and work in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where each creates pottery with a distinctive style: Neal creates primarily on the wheel, and Sandi focuses on hand-building pottery. Together they have discovered the joy of a unique clayware they call "parts and darts" (figure E).

Neal often cuts a dart, or wedge of clay, from his clay forms. Removing these darts is a way of altering the form off the round, giving more opportunities to create a unique shape. After he removes the darts, the clay can be pinched, giving different shapes to the forms (figure F).

Sandi takes a slightly different approach to darting clay. She draws darts on untextured soft clay, cuts out the dart, moistens the edges of the clay and reshapes the form (figure G).

Both Neal and Sandi bevel the edges of the clay, ensuring clean, smooth edges to the finished form. When using darts, it's important to remember the purpose of the form: is the form functional or sculptural? Either way, experimenting with new shapes is an exciting way for potters to expand technique and talent.

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