SLABS, HARD AND SOFT

Explore the versatility of the slab

The possibilities for making forms with slabs of clay are endless. Stiffened slabs allow for precise forms. Softer slabs allow clay to be stretched and altered, adding curves and changes in the direction of a surface. Using slump and hump molds, bowls and platters can be quickly and easily formed. When patterns or templates are used, there are still more opportunities to construct three-dimensional forms from two-dimensional slabs.

MAKERS

Sandi Pierantozzi

Sandi Pierantozzi has been making beautifully crafted pots from textured slabs for many years. She has also created the Circlematic collection of templates for making slab forms. Along with her husband, Neil Patterson, (who primarily throws pots on the wheel,) she makes pots and teaches classes at Neighborhood Potters in Philadelphia. You can find a number of videos from the Ceramic Arts Network featuring each of them demonstrating their techniques. In this video, Sandi demonstrates her technique for making a cup with a tripod base.

Neighborhood Potters

Liz Zlot Summerfield

Liz Zlot Summerfield works with soft slabs making functional and collectible wares. Her layered surfaces incorporate the use of underglaze, terra sigillata (i.e., fine slip), slip trailing, and glazes. Here she demonstrates how to make a darted cup.

Liz's Website

Craig Underhill

Craig Underhill is a British potter who makes slab built pots inspired by local landscapes. His loose, abstract approach sets him apart from other makers. His construction methods are often unconventional. For instance, instead of cutting his slabs, he will sometimes score the clay and then break away the excess to create an edge. In this video, he explains his creative process and shows the beginnings of a series of cylindrical forms. You can find more of his videos on YouTube and Instagram.

Craig's website

TUTORIALS AND LINKS

Soft Slab Textured Serving Dish

In this video, Bailey Arend demonstrates how to create a footed serving plate with a stamped texture that is stretched to create interest and a bit of movement.

Stiff Slab Box

The box is the most basic form you can make with stiff slabs. Sit down with a cup of tea or coffee and enjoy this video of Sae-won Lee throwing a slab and constructing a lidded box with a gallery. Her instruction is clear and her craftsmanship is impeccable.