Hi, my name is Saida Fagala and I am a ceramist. I really love my job and hope you will feel the same, especially when you have a finished work in your hands.
I would like to start with hand-built works to help you get a feel for clay.
I'll show you the slab, coil and pinch technique. I want to remind you, always give a good wedge to your clay. For joining the pieces of clay together you have to make a slurry (dry clay mixed with water or, for better results, try vinegar).
In future lessons I'll also show you how to throw on the wheel, so I hope you'll love making ceramics and my lessons. Good luck.

Click on image to enlarge & discuss

Form the clay into a wedge.
The blue slab vase that will be made in this lesson.

Roll the slab flat.

Cut out the shape, making two parts for the front and back and one part for each side. Apply slurry to the edges to join the sides.

Press a thin coil of clay along the joint for support.

Using the slurry, attach the sides to the back and then attach the front to the sides.

Allow a few minutes between attaching parts to allow the clay to harden slightly.

Insert a roller inside to hold the desired shape and leave for a few minutes to allow the clay to harden enough to hold the shape when the piece is righted.

Turn the piece and set it on its bottom.

Cut another slab for the bottom.

Apply slurry to the bottom of the sides and to the slab for the bottom. Join the sides to the bottom and press slightly.

Cut the bottom slab around the edges to fit.

Press the bottom slab up slightly and press gently to join the bottom to the sides.

Gently and carefully smooth the joints using a sponge and shaping tool.

Using the sharp edge of the shaping tool, make some decorative effects.

Finish the top using a series of coils.

Press the assembled coils slightly and smooth.

Smooth all seams using the shaping tool.

Let stand while preparing coils.

Make some decorative attachments using the coil technique.

Using the slurry join the attachments to the sides.

The piece should be left to dry completely for about two weeks.

After glazing and firing, the finished work is ready.