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 Here are the three round bottom plates that I'm going to use in my project. Since I used a template, they are neatly shaped and all the same size. Of course, you can also cut out freeform shapes from clay slabs, it depends on what you prefer. If you're not going to use them right away, it's best to cover them again with a damp cloth. |
 I want to build shapes on the base plates using clay coils, so I'm preparing some coils in advance. I'll cover them again with a damp cloth if I'm not going to use them right away. |
 To ensure that the coils adhere well to the base plate, I stick them together with clay slip. This sticking together is something you always do when you want to join different parts together, such as attaching a handle to a jug or joining multiple clay slabs. Even if you've left a piece of work for a while and want to continue, you attach the first clay coil again with slip to ensure a good bond. Once you're working, you don't need to reapply slip to subsequent coils each time.You make clay slip by dissolving a piece of clay in water. The clay slip should be about as thick as full-fat yogurt. You can apply the slip with your finger or with a brush, whichever you prefer. |
 Sticking the different parts together is not only for better adhesion but also to ensure that no air remains trapped between the parts. Before applying the slip to the parts to be joined, scratch the area where the slip will be applied with a scoring tool. Do this in a crisscross pattern. |
 Here you can see how slip is applied with a brush over the scratched area. Do this carefully and make sure the scratches are filled with slip. |
 I also scratch the clay roll. Then slip is applied to the scratches. |