How Do You Combine Fine Clay And Sand For Making Pottery?
Sand has been used as a temper for clay pottery for thousands of years. When clay is baked in a wood-fire kiln, it shrinks considerably. This shrinkage can cause cracking and other defects in the final pottery piece. One technique is adding coarse sand to fine clay to temper the pottery. This technique is often used when creating concrete from cement; combined sand and gravel particles interlock, creating a strong base for the material. Tempering the clay using sand will prevent shrinkage and cracking during firing, adding strength and stability to your pottery. Knead the clay until it is soft and workable. Roll the clay into a ball and flatten it using your hands or a rolling pin. When flattening, keep the clay in a circular shape about 1/4 inch thick. Cut out a pie-shaped wedge that measures about 1/3 of the circle, using your knife. Set the piece aside. Pour the sand into the area where the wedge was removed. Make sure the sand reaches about 1/4 inch from the bottom, or level with t
