How to Throw a Large Vase with Neil Estrick

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One of the biggest challenges for new potters is making large forms - especially large forms with generous bellies. Neil Estrick makes it look easy. And in this video, Neil shares a multitude of tips and tricks he has learned over the years.

Large and In Charge!

Just about every new potter strives to throw large, but many think they are not strong enough. Neil demonstrates that throwing large generous forms doesn't take a lot of muscle - it takes smarts! Throughout the video, Neil explains clearly how he holds his tools and positions his hands to get the most out of every movement. This helps him avoid overworking his porcelain, thus preventing the dreaded collapse of a form.

Tricks for Trimming and Decorating!

Next, Neil takes you through the trimming process, demonstrating how to trim large, narrow-necked forms with ease on a chuck. Along the way, he shares some homemade and improvised tools to help make trimming a breeze. If you struggle with trimming, Neil's clear explanations will help put your struggles behind you!

Neil's trimming process not only helps him take off excess clay, but it also helps him get set up for decoration. You'll learn how to smooth out the surface with a metal rib to prepare for decoration. Then Neil shows how to lay color down, then cover with wax resist, and add carved lines for slip-inlay decoration.

Total runtime: 38:42

About the Author

Neil Estrick

Neil Estrick holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Art, with an emphasis in ceramics and photography, from the University of Northern Colorado, and a Master of Fine Arts in Ceramics from Utah State University. He has been making pottery since 1992, and specializes in wheel thrown porcelain. Neil was born and raised in Colorado, but currently resides in Grayslake, IL with his wife, a veterinarian, and his two sons. Since 2004 he has been the owner of Neil Estrick Gallery, LLC, in Grayslake, IL. In addition to being a working studio and gallery, the business has a large classroom studio space where Neil holds pottery classes for kids and adults. He also offers workshops for teachers, sells kilns and other pottery equipment, and repairs pottery kilns and wheels in the Chicago-Milwaukee area.

Unfamiliar with any terms in this video? Browse our glossary of pottery terms!

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How to Throw a Large Vase with Neil Estrick Neil Estrick