How to Make a Clay Pedestal

A clay pedestal, sometimes called a clay stem, is the long vertical piece on a pottery item that connects the bowl with the base. A clay pedestal can be tall, such as the ones found on bird baths, or short, such as those found on small candy dishes. Making a clay pedestal is deceptively hard; an air bubble, messed up angle or disproportionate amount of clay could all cause it to collapse under the weight of the bowl. Fortunately, with a little practice, you'll be able to make clay stems in only a handful of minutes.

Instructions

1

Form a ball of clay with your hands; moisten your hands with water if the clay is sticking. Knead the clay a bit to ensure there are no air bubbles.

2

Place the ball of clay on the center of a pottery wheel. Start pumping the wheel if it is manual, or turn it on if its electric.

3

Moisten your hands in a bowl of water.

4

Place your hands around the ball of clay. Apply a small amount of even pressure. The ball with begin to rise as the sides are pressed inwards. Adjust your hands so the top and bottom of the pedestal are larger than the center.

5

Remove the pedestal from the wheel. It can now be attached to a bowl and base.