Adding Handles

Handles not only enhance the functionality of a piece but also add balance, character, and refinement to the form. A well-made handle feels comfortable in the hand, complements the piece's proportions, and most importantly, keeps the hot tea away!

Difficulty: Beginner

Time: 5-15 minutes

Technique: Handbuilding

What You Need

Clay

Large flat surface

Knife or pin tool

Score tool & slip

Wooden modelling tool

Sponge & water

Plastic sheet (for drying)

Handle Preparation

Handles should be formed and attached when both the vessel and handle have similar moisture levels — for best results attach at leather-hard. If the handle is too soft, it may sag or distort during drying; if too dry, it can crack at the joint.

Common Handle Types

Recommended Method: Coil Handle

Coil Handle: Roll a long, even coil and shape it into a loop or curve that fits comfortably in the hand. Keep coil thickness around ¼–½ inch. Score and slip both ends before attaching, and compress the joins for strength.

Pulled Handle: Begin with a thick coil or lump of clay. Wet your hands and repeatedly pull the clay downward using firm, even strokes to stretch and thin it. Rotate and shape the handle between pulls to form an oval or D-shaped cross-section. Allow it to rest until slightly firm before attaching.

Slab or Strap Handle: Roll a clay slab to about ¼ inch thickness and cut a strip to the desired width. Smooth the edges, then shape the strip over a rounded form (like the rolling pin) to create a gentle curve. Allow it to stiffen slightly before attaching.

Twisted or Double Handle: Form two narrow coils and twist them together for a decorative, rope-like handle. Smooth lightly with damp fingers, then shape and attach once firm.

Integrated Handle: For a seamless design, form the handle directly from the vessel wall while it's still soft. Pull or cut and lift a section of clay outward to create a natural handle curve.

Attaching the Handle

Mark Attachment Points

On your piece, mark where the handle will attach. Consider balance and ergonomics — handles should sit comfortably. Not too big, not too small.
Score Both Surfaces

Score the marked areas on the vessel and both ends of the handle using a score tool. Create crosshatch patterns for maximum strength.
Apply Slip Generously

Brush thick slip onto all scored surfaces. For heavy handles, use slip with a paste-like consistency for extra strength.
Attach & Press Firmly

Position the handle and press both ends firmly into place. You should see slip squeeze out from the joins.
Compress the Joins

Use your fingers or a wooden tool to compress each attachment point, working the clay together. Add a small internal coil of clay inside the join for extra support on heavy handles.
Smooth & Blend

Blend the attachment points into the vessel surface using a wood modelling tool. Smooth with a damp sponge to hide join lines and create seamless transitions.
Support During Drying

Use sponge, crumpled paper, or a small support under the handle curve to prevent sagging as it dries. Remove supports once leather-hard.

Proportion & Placement

Position handles where they naturally balance the vessel.

For mugs, ensure space for two to three fingers.

For pitchers, place the handle opposite the spout and slightly above the midpoint of the body.

Dual handles on large bowls & dishes should align directly across from one another for symmetry and weight balance.

Drying and Finishing

After attaching, cover the entire piece with plastic to slow drying. For best results, loosely drape plastic over the handle alone for the first 12–24 hours, then cover the whole vessel evenly. Once the clay slightly dries, refine the handle with a damp sponge or soft rib to smooth transitions and remove tool marks. A slight compression along the top and sides of the handle adds strength and comfort.

Studio Secrets

→ Match moisture levels: Both the vessel and handle should feel equally damp. Mist the drier component lightly before attaching.

→ Thicker slip for strength: For heavy handles or large vessels, use slip that's almost paste-like to create stronger bonds.

→ Internal support coils: Add a small coil of clay inside the attachment point for mugs and pitchers — this prevents handle failure during firing.

→ Test the grip: Before finalizing, place your hand on the handle gently to ensure comfort and balance. Adjust positioning if needed.

→ Slow, even drying: Handles are prone to cracking if dried too quickly. Cover the entire piece and dry gradually over several days.

Helpful Fixes

Handle breaks off during drying

The join was likely too dry or not compressed enough. Always score, use slip, and compress the attachment points thoroughly. Add internal support coils for heavy handles.

Handle sags or distorts

The handle was too soft when attached. Let handles stiffen to leather-hard before attaching, and support them with a sponge while drying.

Cracks at attachment points

Moisture mismatch or too-fast drying. Ensure both components have similar dampness and dry the piece slowly under plastic.

Handle feels uncomfortable to hold

Test ergonomics before the clay dries. Reshape or reposition while still workable. Handles should have smooth curves and adequate finger space.

Handle breaks in firing

Weak joins or trapped air bubbles. Score more deeply, compress thoroughly, and ensure no air is trapped at attachment points.

Quick Checklist

Match moisture levels

Score both surfaces

Apply slip

Press firmly & compress joins

Add internal support coil

Support handle while drying

Dry slowly under plastic