1. Complex Clay Forms

2. Simple vs. Complex Complex Forms Usually: Simple Forms Usually:
Are made up of 3 or more pieces
Are three-dimensional
Have interesting texture or patterns
Include negative spaces
Simple Forms Usually:
Are made with only 1-2 pieces
Are two-dimensional
Lack interesting decoration

4. Complex Forms Complex clay forms require planning and problem solving.
First we will draw some rough sketches & brainstorm on different designs.
After picking a design we will plan out the best way to execute it

5. Techniques
There are several basic techniques that your design may require you to know:
Slap Rolling
Attaching by Scoring & Slipping
Carving Into & Carving Out
Hollowing Out Forms
Coil Method
Finishing

6. Slab Rolling Slabs can be combined with other techniques
Using slabs is a quick and easy way to construct complex forms, but remember that slabs are flat and we are creating three-dimensional objects

7. Scoring & Slipping
When attaching one piece of clay to another you should always score and slip
Scoring means adding texture to the clay to create better grip
Slip is dry clay mixed with water and works like glue

8. You can also use a needle tool to carve out sections of clay
Carving
You can carve patterns and texture into the clay’s surface using different tools
You can also use a needle tool to carve out sections of clay

9. Hollowing Out
After working with clay small air bubbles may become trapped inside the clay
These air bubbles can cause clay objects to explode when heated up in the kiln
Wedging clay is important in getting out air bubbles
Thick forms should be hollowed out to reduce the risk of explosion

10. Coil Method
Coiling is not just used for making pots and bowls, it is also a fast and easy way to create hollow figures.

11. Finishing
Use your fingers and the clay tools to smooth out any bumps and get rid of any unwanted clay scraps
Once you have laid out your clay to dry no more changes can be made

12. Winter/Holiday Figures
Figures should stand on their own or should be designed to hang
Our theme is Winter/Holiday so figures could include:
Snowman
Snowflake
Santa
Christmas Tree
Holly
Candy
Angle
Gingerbread Man
Reindeer
Present

13. Winter/Holiday Figures
Ornaments should be lightweight
less clay = less weight
Figures should not be too thick
Remember these are complex figures
avoid flat and heavy