How to Center Clay - A Beginner's Guide

Рет қаралды 976,299

Күн бұрын

This is my ultimate guide on how to centre clay on the potter's wheel, (centre, center? Yes I'm using both spellings, both English and American, so it's searchable for people all over the world). I've tried to go into as much detail as possible to thoroughly explain each little step along the way as well as showing you how to fix certain errors and discussing all the little tips and tricks I have. Enjoy, and I hope this video is useful! Let me know if it is in the comments below.
• How to wedge clay video: • How to Spiral Wedge Clay
• How to center clay: • How to Center Clay - A...
• How to pull up the walls of clay: • How to Pull Up The Wal...
• How to open up and form the base: • How to Open Up Centred...
• How to lift pots off the wheel: • How to Lift Pots Off t...
• How to throw a bowl: • How to Throw a Pottery...
• Trimming tips and tricks: • How to Trim Pots - Tip...
📖 • PRE-ORDER MY BOOK: ow.ly/9wYn50MQXV5
⏱ • Timecodes:
0:00 - Introduction and discussing the importance of preparing clay, (wedging)
0:50 - What shape to make the wedged up balls of clay
1:23 - How to sit at the wheel properly
1:41 - Positioning of left arm, the 'anchor'
2:02 - How to slam the clay down effectively
4:21 - How to position left arm and push upper body weight onto the clay
5:10 - Water/slip usage
5:36 - Using little finger to seal the base of the clay
6:00 - Introducing vertical pressure
8:01 - The centred shape I'm after
8:26 - Scraping the ball of clay if it feels gritty
9:02 - Discussing the speed of the wheel
9:53 - How to position hands as to not grind your skin
10:32 - Pinching fingers and focusing on stability
11:18 - Using the leftover 'skim' of clay to help stick down the balls of clay
11:37 - Coning the clay
13:50 - How to remove your hands from the clay as not to introduce a wobble
15:20 - The importance of centring
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Website - www.floriangadsby.com

Пікірлер: 364

@koraburke1820 2 жыл бұрын

I am a high school art teacher who just now happened upon this video/ channel, and this is the BEST centering video I've ever seen! It is so helpful! The craziest part of it all is that 99% of this is what I teach my students, as many potters have different styles. Loved being able to see what NOT to do. Definitely will be using this video as a resource in my class!

@primitiveonpurpose 2 жыл бұрын

Same here, high school art teacher :) this must be the best, most useful tutorial I've encountered. Superb teacher and talented he is.

@bulbulayasmr7693 Жыл бұрын

Awesome texture like this video

@devinmartin7626 6 ай бұрын

Good teacher

@juleezruleez1703 5 ай бұрын

Thank you, this video is totally helpful!

@MetalRat518 28 күн бұрын

Holy anticapitalism lol sorry gone nutz but luv this video

@lindaparisi6744 2 жыл бұрын

I still have the first pot I ever made. I was so proud of that! The experienced potters at the studio were so happy for me. I knew I’d found a home. That was >12 years ago and I now have my own studio. It does become an obsession!

@rajshrisingh9378 Жыл бұрын

Please share your Insta page if possible

@govindaswamydhamodaram2442 Жыл бұрын

👍

@matildabozkurt7669 Жыл бұрын

@@rajshrisingh9378 pvPppp mi

@bulbulayasmr7693 Жыл бұрын

Lovely video stay connected

@themoodyonejb Жыл бұрын

I'm beginning my journey now and loving it. Signing up for more classes next week.

@earthtrippersuz 2 күн бұрын

"And soon you'll forget that you ever struggled centering'--love the encouraging ending! And thanks for this video my trainer sent me. Learnt lots on centering!

@kateedmonds9900 18 күн бұрын

What a lovely way Florian has of expressing himself, so clear and also so kindly. I will watch this again in my car just before class next week. I especially loved his final words about, don’t worry, just make pots, even lumpy wobbly ones…. What an encouraging teacher.

@juliedallaire1228 Жыл бұрын

I love this video! My favourite part? “Soon you’ll forget that you ever struggled on centering clay”. Thanks for this!

@PotterybySargam 2 ай бұрын

Hands down the best video for centering. As a beginner, I usually take over 5-7 minutes to center. But after watching this video, and understanding the mistakes I was making, I centered my pot within 2 minutes!

@charlielarson1350 2 жыл бұрын

Oh man, I bought a pottery wheel after watching your video with Tom Scott and binging your channel. I just made my first successful bowl last night. Wish I had seen this before because it took me like 15 failed attempts first, haha. Definitely will try again today after watching this

@floriangadsby 2 жыл бұрын

Ah wonderful! Pleased to hear you liked the video with Tom Scott, it was such fun to film. Good luck potting, I really hope this video helps and thanks for watching, Charlie!

@IanJohnstonblog 2 жыл бұрын

This is an exceptional tutorial. Thanks for sharing your expertise! It’s also well shot, well paced, and narrated beautifully. This makes digesting all the information so much easier, and enjoyable. Love your channel!

@ALTOONAPPS2011 2 жыл бұрын

Omg he is the best one out on KZfaq for pottery stuff... He can be a teacher

@tweshikatonyala6480 2 жыл бұрын

Exceptional tutorial indeed. So clearly explained and all bases covered.

@chrisdotdash5154 2 жыл бұрын

I can’t wait for your next video on pulling! As an intermediate potter I am still learning how to throw more consistently and refine my pulling skills. Thank you for these high quality videos.

@toniweston4330 21 күн бұрын

To me this is the most interesting & useful thing I have ever viewed on KZfaq! Sincerely thankful to you for sharing. Very well demonstrated, too.

@Uzume2 Жыл бұрын

Not only are you a fantastic potter, your tutorials are gentle and encouraging. I've been throwing for quite a number of years and still found some gems in your video. Thank you!

@Koii.Jeanie 8 ай бұрын

I’m taking a ceramics class in my college semester, and I tried doing the wheel, I always never felt confident in the wheel but I wanna learn to use it. I did terrible the other day and watching this, I understood where I made my mistakes. And understood why my clay was really bad. Thank you so much for this! I learn so much from your videos

@SeriouslyCreative 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for the helpful video, and your kind words at the end 💖

@vilyat7 Жыл бұрын

I am a potter of over 30 yrs and your demonstrations are very good. This is what I teach in one of my lives, I am also a trained event professional.

@DunoonVanRijn-dx1hr 24 күн бұрын

It is nice to see someone taking this Craft seriously. I wish you well for your future endeavours

@joshstarling2466 4 ай бұрын

I took a pottery class because of you. Thank you Floriran. I took the beginner stage a year after watching this, and I'm back to learn more for my first studio lesson.

@hankkingsley9183 Жыл бұрын

The wealth of info here and the expert presentation is really beyond measure. Kudos

@ekakaz2296 4 ай бұрын

Very well explained! As my math teacher used to say “you used the right words in the right way” !

@suzankohlik6827 8 ай бұрын

I love your videos and recommend them to my students often. they are so precise and clear. after 40 years of throwing I can still learn things from you! I also love the fact you pass on the knowledge for free. Congratulations!!

@michaelmadison883 Жыл бұрын

Florian all of your content is amazing. My son for his birthday told me he wanted to try and now we are absolutely hooked after going to our first lesson. We have since devoured your content and love your work. I want you to know just how much we appreciate you making videos for beginners like us and then also showing us just how far and amazing we can become (if only aspirationally, your work is just sooooo beautiful). Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!

@JessicaSmith-gn3mb 27 күн бұрын

This was so helpful, thank you! The best centering video I have found!!

@elisabonifacio5017 2 жыл бұрын

Honestly, thank you! Your peaceful voice and careful explanation has been helping me so much! Cheers from Brazil!

@floriangadsby 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Elisa! That means a lot. Very appreciate you taking the time to watch. Good luck potting!

@annapetri-satter844 2 жыл бұрын

Your videos are so precious and soothing to watch. They allow me to learn pottery in a way that caters to my needs and my learning pace. I gratefully appreciate that you leave out all the noisy nonsense (music, intros and bling-bling stuff etc) and unusefull chit-chat other people's videos often display but focus on essential information instead. Your explanations are incredibly precise, well-structured and didactically superb. Thank you so much for sharing and please keep going, it's immeasurably valuable and helpful!

@Dani-ej1zl 2 жыл бұрын

This is an exceptional tutorial! I was never able to actually throw anything when I took a ceramics class but this demonstration has addressed all of the issues I had! I truly appreciate how much care you took in describing how everything should feel. The stoneware clay felt like sandpaper, I was pressing too hard on the wheel, I was centering for too long to get it perfect, and I turned my wheel too slowly in order to try to save myself from the sandpaper feeling. I really wonder if I could do it now. Can't wait for the next one!

@booboobex10 2 жыл бұрын

You are a gift to this community. Thank you for all your wonderful videos with clear guidance and tips !!!

@gsandy6107 7 ай бұрын

This is great video for any beginner like me. You went above, & beyond into every detail. Thanks so much, truly appreciate it. ❤

@LoveYouBeTrue Ай бұрын

This is an AMAZING video! You touched on basically everything I did wrong to start!! Very informative. Thank you for this.

@oOHiggsFieldOo 8 ай бұрын

We fell in love with the work of a potter while in vacation last year, to the point we have invested in all the equipment and made room for all of that in our garage to start this adventure. All the knowledge you put out is a true treasure, i thank you deeply for sharing this! hats off :)

@Jabanalla Жыл бұрын

Soo yesterday I was at the studio alone and desperately tried to center my pieces and nothing worked. After regrouping myself I decided to watch this video just to get the basics straight again. And boy did this work!! Yesterday was good but today I freaking overdid myself 😂 so thank you!

@lene_.s Жыл бұрын

I just watched this again a couple of months after the first time I saw it and there´s a lot of stuff that apparently didn´t really stick with me the first time. Definitely worth watching several times over the course of a couple months untill I get this centering down. All the details really help.

@annaberstein 2 ай бұрын

Thank you so much! I am in a beginner's class. The teacher is so-so. I am learning what I need from yours and other's videos. Lifesavers!!!!

@bluetickbeagles116 3 ай бұрын

Outstanding instruction. I started throwing clay only two days ago (1:6 scale for ultra realistic mini foods) and your videos are extremely helpful.

@yagmurkaya369 4 ай бұрын

I am a beginner and I have just started watching your videos, and i cannot stress enough how lucky I feel to have such amazing tutorials in hand! Thank you so much, your videos are great :)

@user-bj5un2qx5f Жыл бұрын

This is one of the best centering videos I have watched! I’m a amateur potter and have been struggling with centering my clay but this tutorial really helped me understand the fundamentals of this craft. Thanks!!!

@BVoshol 2 жыл бұрын

This is wonderful! I'm not going to start throwing pots any time soon, but I can tell how helpful this would be. Thanks for being so specific - I know that can be really hard to do when you've been doing something as second nature for a long time! Seriously, showing all the problems that can happen, and not just taking about them? Amazing!

@sanakabana 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for taking the time to show us how to centre. I especially like the part where you show us how not to do a technique as it really helps in understanding what the clay would do. Please keep these videos coming.

@AllanRisk 6 ай бұрын

As someone who has been working with clay once a week at a pottery class, I still struggle with centring. Part of the problem is that I have developed some sort of painful tendonitis in my left hand (possibly caused by poor technique); the other part is that my technique still needs work. This video has been very helpful ... I feel like I want to have it playing on the screen directly in front of the wheel as I'm doing it! I also appreciate where you say (I'm paraphrasing) to go ahead and just try to make a pot, even if it is wobbly; it is an encouraging message to leave with those of us who haven't yet mastered centring ...

@adasiurniene1871 7 ай бұрын

Thank you so much!! I'm in my first days of throwing and it is such a relief to hear that you do not have to center perfectly. Spending 5 minutes of centering feels like it is too much, nice to hear that it really is so :) And I think you saved my little finger's skin, I was so protective of clay not to run away to sides, that I was rubbing my finger to the metal quite hard :D

@micheledickey4066 Жыл бұрын

I just got my first wheel this winter and finalllly it is warm enough in my garage to start using it. I have watched Soo many videos but I stilll don’t know where to start. I will start with these videos you have made. I LOVE your work and I’m so grateful that you have made these videos for beginners!! Thank you. This is so incredibly in depth! It is sooo helpful. Thank you again!!!

@awhisper12 Жыл бұрын

I tried this process yesterday for the first time before watching this amazing guide. I’ve done all the mistakes and this really helped me understand a lot. Can’t wait to go home and try it your way!

@MariekaJackson Жыл бұрын

You are such a blessing to the pottery world. Thank you for everything you do. From your beautiful pieces/creations to the extremely helpful (and gently spoken) information that you share. A true gift.

@Nellian Жыл бұрын

Chiming in to agree - Florian’s videos are superior. I will be starting my first pottery class in a few weeks, and am so grateful to have these videos to prepare me.

@andreacordova4290 Жыл бұрын

Florian you are the best! This video shows how passionate you are about pottery and this gets really contagious! I am now in my first wheel throwing classes, and after watching your video I'm sure I'll do it with more confidence. Thank you so much for your guidance!

@daniellel2051 7 ай бұрын

You have explained this process beautifully, thank you!!

@rosalindbarbier7670 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you very much for taking this time to help those of us starting out. I really appreciate your clarity and patience.

@donnajobe6111 Жыл бұрын

These are the BEST videos. The tone and pace of his voice …chefs kiss

@melindaschawel Жыл бұрын

Your videos are brilliant, so informative and well-paced, even the short clean up sections at the end! As a beginner, there are a million videos to weed through and the learning curve can feel overwhelming but your approach is calming, yet thorough. And of course the resulting vessels reflect that quality. Thanks for taking the time.

@emilychung4909 Жыл бұрын

I just pottering. just completed my 4th lesson and centering is hardest but the joy when it finally comes together, was exhilarating. Thank you for the wonderful tips🎉

@sherrycheng5936 Жыл бұрын

thank you for your video, I am a beginner potter who haven't been able to properly center a piece of clay yet, the frustration is accumulating, after watched your video, I can't wait to try it out next time when I am on wheel. also really appreciate your last part of the video, it calmed me. To start a new craft, our eyes are always "higher" than our hands, we forget that it takes lots and lots of practice to get better. thank you for reminding me that.

@Lacquer. Жыл бұрын

I wish this video was out when I was first on the wheel! You talk about so many problems I encountered and how to avoid them. I'm taking another ceramic class and I'm determined to get better results this time around. Thank you for this video!

@theabsolutetruth2024 2 ай бұрын

One of the best instructional videos I've ever seen, period. Well done! Thank you!

@angelaperkinson5523 Жыл бұрын

I have been watching videos and trying to center for a week and this video touched on and explained every issue I've had and every question I've asked. Thank you SO much.

@gigicooper1759 6 ай бұрын

Just had my first day at the wheel, this is a VERY helpful video, I look forward to more.

@slevinchannel7589 6 ай бұрын

I like Isekai and Time-Travel so i wonder oddly-specific this: Whats the best production-method for porcellan that is do-able if you get transported with modern knowledge into ancient Time??

@tadharsh678 8 ай бұрын

Watching this as I begin a class. Thank you!

@chichipotter4487 9 ай бұрын

This is a wonderful tutorial. I know nothing about pottery other than the finished product - but now feel confident to take a class. Something I have always wanted to do. Beautifully filmed and narrated Thank you Florian.

@nazbolo253 Жыл бұрын

This is the best video I have seen about centering. Actually felt good to hear you saying the same things I say to my students. Thank you

@Dobby-1611 2 жыл бұрын

‘So’ welcome this level of detail Florian. Looking forward to the next one. Thankyou

@FilbieTron Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much Florian. I had some practice today with a full size wheel and was really struggling with centering. Even though I’ve been using a mini wheel with not much difficulty.. So it felt extra frustrating. But after your video I’m realizing I think the clay I was working with was simply too firm. All of your suggestions for subtle changes were rather revolutionary to me. Thank you again for your in depth explanations.

@cathybriggs8725 Жыл бұрын

This video is amazingly well done and informative. I will watch it over and over again. Thank you for taking the time to share all of these crucial details. You are inspiring so many people to put their hands to clay.

@Thorisotto Жыл бұрын

Wow! You are such a talented educator! Thank you so much for explaining and illustrating the WHY as well - that helps me a lot!

@snkrishna1975 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for sharing so wholeheartedly. I always head to your vlogs whenever I'm struggling with my pottery.🙏

@campbell9364C Жыл бұрын

can we just acknowledge how calming his voice is

@suetilley6750 2 ай бұрын

Thank you so much!! I have been struggling with centering and my teachers never told me most of what you said. I understand so much better now. I can’t wait to try it!! You are an excellent teacher!! Thank you!

@alahnakisebach503 2 жыл бұрын

As someone who struggles with centering, this video is so helpful, thank you :)

@youarenaturewellness 3 ай бұрын

Thank you for this video...I am beginning my first wheel throwing class and just got back from the centering class. It was very difficult, but it was nice to hear you reiterate it in a calming voice. I will be practicing and using some of your tips!

@heyjessfaye 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for this Florian! I've properly injured myself with my incorrect form. This is really in depth and thorough, looking forward to the next ones

@primitiveonpurpose 2 жыл бұрын

Very useful, indeed! Your detailed, clear and specific technique tips are spot on; thank you for knowing not only how to throw, but how to TEACH how to throw. High school ceramics teacher here: keep up the fantastic tutorials.

@floriangadsby 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you very much Alisa - that really means a lot.Thanks for teaching the next generation 🙌🏼

@user-zy5sh1tz3j 9 ай бұрын

Apart from all the useful instructions - I am absolutely fascinated by your voice

@maybeafreethinker Жыл бұрын

Thankyou for being so generous with your knowledge and time, given in your calm voice

@GilTheDragon 2 жыл бұрын

I've just recently started working with a pottery wheel & I can't tell you how elucidating this has been

@erinwithryder 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for making this video in such details.😃 I had always wanted to ask about the side of left hand against the wheel head! I am glad to finally have the answer. 👍🏻

@temeraire1100 2 жыл бұрын

The best video I have seen on centreing. Thank you for the encouraging words at the end, that is what I need to hear, at this early stage of my potting adventure.

@camilabeltrame6763 2 жыл бұрын

Such an amazing demo! Thank you so much for sharing it. I’ve been learning a lot through your videos, and I do appreciate all effort and time you put into this.

@galekrcmarik2043 Жыл бұрын

Very helpful...... To the point and no waisted words or time. Great Job Thanks so much Florian !

@itsalexcolorburst Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much! I am taking a ceramics class for school right now and I've pretty much resorted to just teaching myself. This was super informative and I will definitely be using the techniques you have shown here

@janechappell1897 Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for this beautifully shot, clearly narrated tutorial. Thanks also for the encouragement - it was an unsuccessful day at the wheel, but I'll be back next week with your tips at my fingers...

@1Toshu 5 ай бұрын

The best most comprehensive tutorial. Thank you!!! very helpful

@Suusie823 2 жыл бұрын

This is an incredibly helpful video. I am soon to take my third lesson as a beginner and centering is so challenging for me. I feel like I am better equipped to take on my next pot. Thank you!

@cindylin6476 2 жыл бұрын

You are so incredible. Thank you for sharing all the steps so well and I feel listening to you about this craft is so poetic and inspiring

@skylarb.3363 Жыл бұрын

Amazing! love this in-depth tutorial. You are my pottery guide and I tell anyone at the community studio who will listen, to watch your videos. Thank you!!!

@isobellep Жыл бұрын

Hi Florian! Marvellous and thank you. Your teaching, skills and documentary are the best. I threw my first 3 pots in a class. The pots are indeed thick walls, slightly irregular etc.. I have thrown for a couple of hours now and all your points I can understand. SO it's good to throw and then re-watch your video. I have set up a small shed studio so I can practice and do my own thing. Once I felt how the clay is living in your hands, surprise. I've been a graphic designer 35 years so this form of creativity is pleasing and satisfying. 🌟 T H A N K Y O U 🌟

@Mikedartagnan 2 жыл бұрын

Very useful - making sure I brace my elbow against my body and pushing the cone forwards and down have made centering much quicker for me.

@manling13 Жыл бұрын

the last comments are so wholesome brings me warmth in the heart❤

@marybeatty9405 Жыл бұрын

I’m starting my first ever 6 week pottery class tomorrow and found your videos in preparation :) A huge thank you on the note to not getting wrapped up in being too perfect…I can let the perfection get in the way of the learning process. Thanks for the reminder to have fun!

@floriangadsby Жыл бұрын

Ah what fun! Good luck, those early stages are so captivating. Thanks for watching my videos and I really hope you enjoy it!

@lydiapiper4961 Жыл бұрын

One of the best videos I've seen on centering clay! So glad I saw this. Preparing to watch your other videos. Well done and Thank you!

@marianasutube Жыл бұрын

Best, most helpful centering video I’ve ever watched! Thank you!

@tasleempatel4301 11 ай бұрын

Thank you for the thorough tutorial video and for going over all in detail. I have found very good tips in your video that will help me to center it properly as I have been making these mistakes and get frustrated all the time.

@Jess-zu7kv 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for sharing your tips! This video is more helpful than all the classes I’ve attended.

@Meliaison Жыл бұрын

Thank you for making this video! I started pottery recently. Only had two classes so far. I thought I'd have fun but it's been more frustrating than anything else. I want to like it but it is so difficult for me. There were so many things in this video that I wish I knew when I started. Each time I'd do something wrong the pottery instructor would just take completely over and I never learned how to do these steps myself. Hopefully this video will help me prepare for the next class!

@Misss_Em Жыл бұрын

Thank you for this! I have been having difficulty centering lately. this should help me understand it better. Im excited for my next class!

@fpeantair446 Жыл бұрын

Thank you for such an informative video. I've struggled with understanding how to centre, and this has made it much clearer.

@tom_norman Жыл бұрын

Quite possibly the most informative video on this entire site; thank you for this.

@sqydward Жыл бұрын

i needed this!!!!! i've been struggling with centering so much and i was starting to feel defeated. this video literally answered every question i had

@suetilley6750 2 ай бұрын

I agree completely!

@judithcarvalho4810 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for sharing your tecnik. I' m learning how to centre clay by myself and I'm happy that I' ve discouvered your chanel. I live in Bahia, Brazil

@annemuldoon1159 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you very much for this excellent video. Your attention to all the aspects of centering is so helpful as I have some issues but not others. I appreciate your detailed narrative. Keep up the good work. Looking forward to the video about opening the center as I often throw the piece off center during that step.

@jazzman1626 Жыл бұрын

I had my first try at pottery today. It was a Christmas pressie from last year. Also to cross it off my bucket list. I was the girl’s first student and she got a good word from her boss for teaching me to make a really nice lathering bowl for my shaving. The sides were not too thick and the side was smooth. The expression on her face was so cute. She was so pleased for me. My second and third attempts at centering it entirely on my own though, were a disaster lol. I ended up with a pathetic little thing that looked like a very small cream jug. They are currently waiting for painting and firing. The boss and the young teacher girl were surprised at how calm I was when disaster struck ha ha. I was really wanting the experience of trying it. That was the most important thing about why I was there, but I’m really chuffed at how well the first bowl turned out.

@allisonlondon2230 2 ай бұрын

This is so helpful. I am just starting out so I need this amount of detail. Thank you1

@barryteghtmeyer5466 Жыл бұрын

Your videos are a great review! Thank you! I am currently taking a beginning wheel class. Even though I have taken one before it has been a long time. You gave some great pointers that I am looking forward to trying out on my next trip to the ceramic studio!

@lyuba881 23 күн бұрын

Fantastic thank you for the easy to understand and comprehensive video! My ceramics teacher was only able to show me their technique and it wasn’t quite working for me. I was told that it’s normal for the process to be painful - I have red markings on the sides on my palms where the spinning wheel irritated them! I look forward to trying your techniques the next time I’m in the studio.