before they are removed from the wheel. With bowls or large shapes it will be found impossible to lift them off without destroying the shape in some degree. For these wood or plaster discs will be required. The plaster bats need soaking in water before use and the wood must be three-ply to prevent warping. These discs are centred on and firmly stuck to a layer of clay run out on the wheel head, and when the pot is finished they are removed with it.
Fig. 31
Fig. 32
All this sounds very simple, but the beginner will do well first to practise and master centring
the ball. Until this be done, the rest of the work is worthless. After this must be practised the pulling up, the pressing down, and the forming of truncated cones, then hollowing the ball and pulling up into a cylinder. A true cylinder accomplished, it is easy to branch out into simple wide-mouthed vase forms. As the skill increases, shapes with double curves and long or narrow necks may eventually be achieved. Throwing to a set copy induces a necessary concentration at this stage, but once a mastery is attained, shapes seem to suggest themselves.
A small mirror placed so as to reflect the true form will be found of great service. When pairs or several duplicates are required, a drawing of the exact profile must be made and a “rib,” of zinc or slate, filed to fit. Without such a guide the matching up is well-nigh impossible.
Fig. 33