Pottery is an art that combines creativity and technical skill. One of the most popular techniques used in both ceramics and contemporary sculpture is slab building, a technique that allows the sculptor to create works of art freely, from vessels, utensils, decorative items to sculptures.
Slab technique is a method of rolling clay into thin sheets, which are then cut, bent, or assembled into pieces. This technique is suitable for creating geometric shapes or pieces that require smoothness and strength, such as boxes, vases, or model structures. It is a different technique from traditional hand sculpting because it is easier to control the shape and produces more refined-looking pieces.
A key advantage of sheet molding is that it can easily create large, smooth-surfaced designs. This makes it ideal for those who want to work with square or geometric shapes. Furthermore, a wide variety of surface patterns can be created, including pressing, drawing, or stamping, before assembly, resulting in unique and distinctive designs.
Are the steps and techniques for sculpting difficult?
Let me tell you, it's not difficult. Start by rolling the clay into sheets using a rolling pin or rolling machine. You should control the thickness to be consistent throughout the piece (recommended to be around 0.5 - 1 centimeter). After that, cut the clay into the desired shape, such as a square, circle, or curve. If you want a rounded shape, you can place the clay on a mold, such as a bottle or wooden mold.
Once you have the desired parts, the next step is assembly. Use the Scoring & Slip technique before joining them together to ensure they adhere well and do not fall apart. After that, you can decorate the surface by pressing, carving, or adding color with colored clay ( Engobe).
It is important to allow the clay to dry slowly by covering it with plastic. If it dries too quickly, it may warp or crack. Once the clay is completely dry, it is fired in a kiln, either bisque firing or glaze firing .
Sheet molding can be adapted in many ways, such as using a mold to shape plates and bowls, assembling boxes or geometric structures, or creating patterns by pressing leaves, strings, or tools to create patterns on the sheets before assembling. This technique greatly enhances the interest of the piece.
What types of clay are suitable for sheet molding?
The clay used affects the strength and ease of sculpting. For beginners, stoneware is recommended because it is tough, strong, and doesn't crack easily. Earthenware is another easy-to-use and affordable option, but it is more brittle. Porcelain , although it gives a white, smooth, and beautiful surface, is difficult to sculpt and has a high chance of cracking. It is more suitable for those with experience.
Avoid rolling the clay too thinly as it can easily crack or warp. Maintain a uniform thickness throughout to prevent uneven shrinkage. Every piece must be joined using the scoring & slip technique and must be dried slowly under plastic wrap to prevent cracking before firing.
So why is Slab Building interesting? The answer is that it's a technique suitable for both beginners and professional artists. It's easy to learn and can be used to create a wide variety of works, from utensils to large-scale artworks. Its high flexibility allows the sculptor to experiment with unlimited patterns and shapes. It's also a fun and challenging way to discover your own sculpting style.