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Handbuilding

The use of paddles in ceramics is a common way for potters to alter wheel-thrown forms once they are leather-hard. Paddles are often used in handbuilding, as well, and allow one to create even walls and to better shape rectangular forms. Paddling involves the gentle patting of a leather hard pot with a flattened wooden tool (the paddle). In addition to shaping, paddling also aids in compression of clay at the pot’s surface, which adds strength and stability to the piece.

We encourage you to experiment with paddles of different sizes and shapes and explore their potential effects. For textured paddles, please visit our Surface Decoration section.