Centering the clay.

What is the first step in the process of throwing a pot?

• Forming the walls

• Centering the clay

• Wedging the clay

• Opening the clay

Why is wedging the clay important before throwing?

• It shapes the clay into a ball

• It dries the clay

• It removes air pockets and creates an even texture

• It makes the clay softer

What shape should the lumps of clay be for easier centering?

• Square shape

• Flat shape

• Irregular shape

• Rounded base with conical tapering walls

How should you position your body when beginning to center clay?

• Leaning back

• Standing up

• With legs around the wheel and head directly over the clay

• Far away from the wheel

What is the purpose of coning the clay up and down?

• To dry the clay

• To align the clay particles and make it more plastic

• To make the clay softer

• To shape it into a pot

What should you do if the clay feels like sandpaper during centering?

• Add more water

• Increase the wheel speed

• Scrape away the outermost layer and continue centering

• Stop and wedge the clay again

How long should the centering process ideally take?

• 1 to 2 minutes

• 10 to 40 seconds

• 5 minutes

• Over 10 minutes

What speed should the wheel be at during the centering process?

• Maximum speed

• Medium

• Fast but not maximum

• Very slow

What is a common mistake beginners make when centering clay?

• Using too soft clay

• Applying too much pressure with their hands

• Pushing their hands too firmly against the metal wheel head

• Not using enough water

What should you do when removing your hands from the centered clay?

• Keep them on the clay

• Release them gently

• Stop the wheel first

• Release them quickly