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Slab Building

Slab building is one of the most versatile handbuilding techniques. By rolling out flat sheets of clay and cutting them into shapes, you can create anything from mugs and boxes to sculptures.

Difficulty: Intermediate

Time: 20-40 minutes

Technique: Handbuilding

What You Need

Clay

Rolling pin

Knife or pin tool

Score tool & slip

Sponge & water

Plastic sheet (for drying)

Optional: Guide sticks

Step-by-Step

Roll the Slabs

Roll evenly with a rolling pin until desired thickness (¼–½ inch / 6–12 mm). Flip the clay occasionally to prevent sticking. Use wooden guide sticks for perfectly even slabs.
Cut & Shape

Trim slabs with a knife or pin tool. For consistency, use paper or cardboard templates. For large or angular forms, allow slabs to stiffen to leather-hard before assembly.
Score & Slip

Roughen edges with score tool (wire brush), apply slip, and press slabs firmly together. Reinforce joins with a small coil blended along the seam for extra strength.
Assemble the Form

Hold or prop up pieces until they support themselves. Use gentle pressure and compression to secure seams without distorting the slabs.
Refine & Smooth

Blend seams, smooth surfaces with a sponge, and adjust angles while the clay is still workable.
Dry Slowly

Cover loosely with plastic (Tip: cut up plastic bin bags work great!) and allow several days for even drying. Keep out of drafts and sunlight to avoid warping.

Studio Secrets

→ Texture before assembly: Stamp, carve, or press textures into slabs while flat — it’s easier than decorating after building.

→ Dry on plaster or drywall board: These surfaces pull moisture evenly from the bottom.

→ Join leather-hard slabs: Slightly stiff slabs hold their shape better for boxes or angular builds.

→ Support as needed: Use foam, crumpled paper, or temporary molds inside the form to hold slabs in place until joined.

Helpful Fixes

Slabs warping while drying

Flip them occasionally during the first few hours, then cover with plastic to slow drying.

Joints cracking

Use deeper scoring and more slip, plus a reinforcing coil. Compress firmly.

Uneven thickness

Use guide sticks or dowels when rolling. Uneven walls shrink at different rates.

Edges collapsing

Let slabs firm to leather-hard before assembly, especially for tall or angular shapes.

Quick Checklist

Roll even level slabs

Cut with knife or template for clean edges

Score, slip, and reinforce all joins

Smooth seams and refine form

Dry slowly, covered and evenly

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