How to Trim a Foot

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Question:  While I'm throwing the base, I use my needle tool to check the thickness.  Now that the clay is ready to trim, I don't want to push the needle through the leather hard clay and risk cracking.  So how can I measure the base thickness safely?

Answer:  By measuring the inside depth and outside height of your piece, you can see what the thickness is of your base before you begin.

Click on Kenny Kicklighter's document to see examples and detailed 'how to' instructions: How to Trim a Foot.pdf

Points of Interest

  • Wait until the clay is leather hard before trimming

  • Never trim with dull tools

  • The inside shape is always the "true" shape to any piece.  When you trim, you want to trim the outside to match the shape on the inside.  Doing this will ensure even wall thickness.

  • Since the bottom always dries last, drying your piece upside down will allow the bottom to dry more evenly with the top. 

  • Also, drying your piece upside down on the rim helps to prevent warping.

  • The location of the foot is actually determined early on while you're doing the wet work.

Naauao