Embrace the graceful curves and satisfying heft of handcrafted ceramic bottles. This comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies of bottle throwing, inspired by Clare Spindler’s renowned workshop at Bell House Pottery Studio.

There’s a certain magic to holding a hand-thrown bottle. The subtle variations in its form, the gentle ridges left by the potter’s fingers, and the inherent uniqueness of each piece tell a story of craftsmanship and artistry. Unlike mass-produced counterparts, these vessels possess a soul, reflecting the maker’s dedication and the transformative power of clay.

For centuries, bottles have served as vessels of containment, preservation, and artistic expression. From ancient amphorae storing precious oils to modern ceramic designs gracing our homes, the allure of the bottle endures.

Meet Clare Spindler: A Ceramic Artist Shaping the Field

At the heart of this exploration is Clare Spindler, a ceramic artist whose passion for functional pottery shines through her work. With a focus on stoneware and porcelain, Clare’s creations embody both elegance and practicality. Her pieces often feature a harmonious blend of wheel-thrown forms and hand-built elements, showcasing her mastery of diverse techniques.

As the studio manager at In Production from Turning Earth, a thriving community studio in Leyton, Clare fosters a collaborative environment for ceramic artists. Her dedication to teaching is evident in her roles at Turning Earth and Crown Works Pottery, where she shares her knowledge and inspires aspiring potters.

Deconstructing the Workshop: Throwing Bottles with Clare

Clare’s “Throwing Bottles” workshop at Bell House Pottery Studio offers a unique opportunity to dive deep into the world of bottle making. Designed for those with prior throwing experience, this two-day immersive course equips participants with the skills to create stunning bottles and vases.

Target Audience and Skill Level:

This workshop caters to intermediate-level potters comfortable with the fundamentals of wheel throwing. Participants should be proficient in centering clay, pulling walls, and basic trimming techniques.

Workshop Structure and Content:

The workshop spans two full days, providing ample time to explore various bottle-throwing techniques.

• Day 1: Focuses on throwing taller cylinders, mastering the art of collaring in and bellying out, and combining these skills to create elegant bottle or vase forms.
• Day 2: Dives into trimming techniques, including the use of chucks, to refine the shapes and create polished final pieces. Participants can choose up to six pots to be glazed and fired, taking home tangible reminders of their creative journey.

What You’ll Gain: Skills and Techniques:

• Throwing Taller Forms: Learn to control the clay as you build height, ensuring even wall thickness and graceful proportions.
• Collaring In: Master the technique of narrowing the opening of a pot, essential for creating bottle necks.
• Belly Out: Achieve graceful curves and volume in your bottles by skillfully pushing out the walls.
• Trimming on Chucks: Refine the shape and foot of your bottles using trimming tools and chucks for a professional finish.

Essential Throwing Skills for Bottle Making

Before embarking on your bottle-throwing adventure, ensure you have a solid grasp of these fundamental wheel-throwing skills:

• Centering: The cornerstone of all thrown pottery, centering involves manipulating the clay into a perfectly symmetrical mound in the center of the wheel. This step is crucial for ensuring even wall thickness and a stable form as you throw.
• Pulling Walls: This technique involves using controlled pressure with your fingers and sponges to draw the clay upwards, creating the walls of your pot. Consistent pressure and hand movement are key to achieving uniform wall thickness.
• Collaring: Collaring involves using your fingers or a rib to gently constrict the opening of the pot, creating a narrower neck. This technique is essential for shaping bottles, vases, and other forms with a defined neck.
• Trimming: Once your thrown piece has dried to a leather-hard stage, trimming refines the shape and removes excess clay. This step often involves using a trimming tool to create a smooth foot and refine the contours of the pot.

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Bottle Throwing Tips

• Throwing with Intention: Before you even touch the clay, visualize the final form you want to achieve. This mental image will guide your hands as you throw, resulting in a more cohesive and intentional piece.
• Working with Different Clay Bodies: Each clay body has unique properties that affect its workability and final appearance. Experiment with different clay types to discover which best suits your style and the forms you wish to create.
• Experimenting with Surface Decoration: Once you’ve mastered the basics of throwing bottles, explore the endless possibilities of surface decoration. From carving intricate patterns to applying colorful glazes, let your creativity shine through.

The Joy of Learning: Why Take a Pottery Workshop?

• Expert Guidance: Learning from a skilled instructor like Clare provides invaluable insights and personalized feedback, accelerating your progress and helping you avoid common pitfalls.
• Dedicated Time and Space: A workshop offers a dedicated space free from distractions, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the creative process.
• **Community and