Hello! You won´t need a propanetorch if you cut down on the water and take the time to compress the clay with ribs. Personally I always wedge the clay in the evening and leave it unwrapped overnight, so as to get some of the water out of the clay, before I re-wedge it in the morning. And go slow, "fast and wet" can be fun, but sometimes you want to be in control.
Greetings from Sweden, in my little village you can hear the chain-saws roaring, as we prepare our wood for next winterseason. The grass is crackling dry and there has been fires around here. The kiln in my garden feels no hurry.
Raoul
.>Reply-To: Clayart
>To: CLAYART@LSV.CERAMICS.ORG
>Subject: throwing dry - getting started
>Date: Tue, 25 Mar 2003 08:19:36 -0800
>
>I learned to throw from several people who use water...
>LOTS of water! One of my teachers, who throws
>beautiful, large pots, says "I throw fast and wet,
>and keep a propane torch handy."
>
>I recently attended workshops by a couple of excellent
>potters, and noticed that they throw very, very dry.
>The advantage is that they can take more time with
>the work, and are able to get more size from the
>same amount of clay because it isn't weakened by
>excessive water. (Plus, clean-up is a LOT easier.)
>
>I want to try switching techniques. Are there any
>specific things I should know about throwing dry?
>In making a transition, should I gradually cut back
>on the amount of water I use, or is it better to go
>"cold turkey?"
>
>I'd really appreciate input, especially from anyone
>who has gone through this transition in throwing
>styles.
>
>Thanks,
>
> Bob
>
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