https://www.cutoutandkeep.net/projects/clay-ring-bowl • Posted by micaela.hoo
1. Cut off a lump of clay roughly 3” x 3” and knead it between your palms until soft and easily pliable. If you find that the clay is breaking or starting to crumble, wet your hands slightly and continue to knead the added moisture into the clay. 2. On a dry, flat surface, roll out the clay with a rolling pin until around 1/4 of an inch in thickness. Turn the clay over in between rolls to ensure that it doesn’t stick to the surface.
3. Using a bowl or plate as a guide, cut out a circle from the roll out clay. Reserve the left over clay in an air tight container for the next time you need it. Smooth out any rough edges from your circle. 4. Take the bowl from the previous step and turn it over so the underside is showing. Carefully press the circle of clay onto the bowl, pressing down with your palms so that the clay forms into the same shape as the bowl. For a smooth, round bowl use the same bowl that you used for the last step. If you prefer a more irregular shape, use a bowl that is slightly smaller than the one previously used.
5. Wet your hands again and gently wipe away any imperfections on the bowl. The water will help to smooth the clay without leaving indents. Set the bowl aside the dry. 6. After roughly 1 hour, check on your bowl. It should be firm but still cool to the touch. At this point you can carefully ease the clay from the bowl and allow it to dry completely overnight.
7. Once completely dry, take an old nail file or emery board and file away any rough edges from the rim of the clay bowl. File in a circular motion to avoid leaving marks. Wipe over with a dry cloth when you are finished. 8. If you would like to decorate your bowl you can do so now; I used a gold paint pen that you can get from most craft stores, but basic craft paints will also work just as well – just be careful not to use too much water as the clay will soak it up and the color can run!