How To Wedge Wild Clay

The Basics

So you want to learn how to wedge wild clay. Or maybe you’re asking yourself why you even need to wedge clay in the first place. Let’s go over exactly what wedging is so you have a better understanding of why you need to do it.

Wedging – A process by which the clay is compacted, removing any air within the clay body.

If you are just starting out on your own clay journey, than it is best to understand and learn wedging before creating your first piece, as this can help with the over all integrity of your vessel through the drying and firing stages.

Wedging should be done, not only for artist throwing on the potters wheel, but also for artists that do hand-building as well.

Wedging Types –

Ram Head Wedging-

Ram head wedging is the act of wedging or compacting clay into a solid mass with two conical spirals on the left and right side of the clay mass forming the appearance of a ram head with horns. The act of ram head wedging pushes out all voids and air bubbles through the “horns” or conical spirals.

Spiral Wedging –

Spiral wedging is the act of wedging or compacting clay into a solid spiral mass, usually taking the form of a nautilus spiral.

How To Rams Head Wedge –

Step 1 –

Grab a handful of clay and work it into a ball, engulf the ball of clay with both hands, keep hands on the side

Step 2 –

Place the bottom meaty part of your palm onto the front top side of the clay mass.

Step 3 –

Push in and then down, using the meaty part of your palm to drive the clay in, down and then slightly forward, or into itself.

Step 4 –

Pull the “top heavy” portion of clay towards your body as you repeat step 3, you should begin to see the shape of a rams head form.

Step 5 –

Wedge for 30-40 reps for best results. By the time you are done you should see the indication of two spirals (horns) forming on each side where your palms have been placed.

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