Do you want to make your own set of plates? It's possible! Here is a tutorial to make your first creations.
Materials needed:
- Clay
- Rolling pin
- Knife
- Wet sponge
- Colors (enamel or acrylic paints)
Steps:
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Prepare your clay by kneading and mixing it to remove air bubbles. You can also add water to make it softer if necessary.
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Roll out the clay on a flat, clean surface using a rolling pin until it is about 0.5 cm thick.
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Using a knife and possibly a template, cut a circle of clay the size you want for your plate.
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Use your hands to shape the clay into a bowl shape by gently pressing the edges and gradually working your way up. Smooth the surface with a damp sponge.
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If you don't have a potter's wheel, you can shape the clay by hand. Use your hands to shape the clay into a bowl shape by gently pressing down on the edges and gradually working your way up. Smooth the surface with a damp sponge.
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Once you have completed the shape of your plate, let it air dry for a few hours until it becomes firm to the touch.
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Next, place the plate in a pottery kiln and fire it at the required temperature. The firing temperature will depend on the type of clay you are using. If you are using self-hardening clay (which is not food grade), let your clay dry according to the instructions given by the supplier.
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If you wish, you can decorate your plates for a unique look! Use the paint that is suitable for your clay (engobes or enamels for natural clay, acrylic for example for self-hardening clay). Be sure to check whether your paints and varnishes are compatible with food use, if you wish to use them for this.
And there you have it, you now have a beautiful clay plate that you can use to serve your meals or to decorate your home. Repeat the process to create a collection of matching plates, and feel free to experiment with different patterns and colors to create unique and personalized designs.
Discover our "Natural Clay and Paint" box, which includes the earth, the colors to apply on raw earth, and which includes firing in our pottery kilns!