we're still sculpting our tutorials!

Full video and step-by-step guides for both pottery techniques and pottery projects will be up before you get your kits!

Avoid Cracks & Prep Clay

Cracks are one of the most common challenges in handbuilding — but they’re also the most preventable. Keep your clay strong from first pinch to final firing.

Difficulty: Beginner

Time: Ongoing

Technique: Multiple

What You Need

Clay bag (or anything airtight)

Sponge & water

Score tool & slip

Wooden modeling tool

Plastic sheet (or bin bag)

Step-by-Step

Store Clay Properly

Keep unused clay sealed in its bag or in an airtight container. Clay dries faster than you think once exposed to air.
Smooth As You Go

If you see fine cracks forming while shaping, stop and smooth them out with a damp sponge or your finger. Early fixes are easiest.
Maintain Even Thickness

Aim for consistent walls about ¼ inch (6 mm) thick. Thick and thin spots dry at different rates, creating stress cracks.
Secure All Joins

Always score and slip when attaching handles, slabs, or coils. Press firmly to compress the seam and blend edges smoothly.
Prepare Your Clay

Thoroughly wedge scraps before reusing. Air pockets hidden in clay can expand in firing and cause splits or even explosions.
Vent Hollow Forms

When making closed or hollow shapes, poke a discreet hole to release trapped air.
Dry Slowly & Evenly

Cover work loosely with plastic and keep out of direct sun, drafts, or heat. Slow drying reduces warping and cracking.

Studio Secrets

→ Compress, don’t just attach: After scoring and slipping, press joins firmly and compress seams to lock clay together.

→ Protect edges: Rims and thin handles dry first—cover them with extra plastic or damp paper if needed.

→ Balance drying: Flip slabs and rotate pieces as they firm up to encourage even moisture release.

→ Work in rhythm: Smooth, compress, and check thickness as you build — small corrections prevent big cracks later.

Helpful Fixes

Small cracks during building

Smooth the area with a damp sponge or finger.

Cracks during drying

Rehydrate the seam with a little slip and blend carefully. Slow the drying process with plastic.

Warping or splitting

Dry too fast? Restart with fresh clay, or slow drying next time with more even coverage.

Seam separating in firing

Likely under-scored or not compressed. Always use slip and pressure for strong joins.

Quick Checklist

Keep clay sealed until use

Smooth cracks as soon as they appear

Maintain ~¼ inch wall thickness

Score, slip, and compress joins

Wedge scraps before reuse

Vent hollow forms

Dry pieces slowly, evenly, and away from drafts

Atelier Home Pottery Techniques