Marek & Pauline Drzazga-Donaldson on fri 16 jun 00
Dear Clayarters,
a very easy method (somewhat akin to Ivor's) to soften clay is to open =
the bag poke holes (use the butt end of a broom handle) 3 or 4 will do, =
but not right through the clay. Carefully pour boiling water into the =
holes, reseal and wait 24 -48 hours.
I also agree very strongly with Lee about not using clay straight from =
the bag, or pugmill for that matter.=20
Clay is a different creature when kneaded and wedged. Putting a slight =
amount of air in when "prepairing" the clay should be no problem. The =
answer is to get the clay to the softness you prefer. I have mine very =
soft as I throw 60lbs and upwards for my chimney pots. Try using clay =
straight from the pugmill or the bag when doing those weights. Even =
small amounts of clay will cause problems if not properly prepared.
Wake the clay and yourself with a gentle bit of kneading and wedging, =
the clay and the potter are better for it.
Happy potting Marek http://www.moley.uk.com=20
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