Learn to make a teapot

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To make a tea pot is a very complex and time consuming process.

A teapot consists of the following parts:

1. Body:

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The form of a teapot may vary greatly according to personal preference but very often teapots are round or squatty. A teapot may be made by wheel throwing, slipcasting or hand building.

The size of the teapot may be for one person or it may be big enough to serve 4 to 5 people.

When throwing a round form on the wheel one starts by throwing a cylinder first before shaping the round form. Basic throwing skills are required.

2. The spout

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Spouts can also vary in shape but should complement the form of the teapot. They may be wheel thrown, slipcast or hand built. The aim of a good spout is to pour well without even leaving one drip once the tea has been poured .The ultimate test can only be performed once the teapot is glazed and gloss fired.

When making a spout try to keep the pouring edge of it horizontal and as fine as possible - consider the turning back of the spout as it dries.

3. The lid

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The lid should fit snuggly into the gallery and should extend into the teapot to stop it from falling out when pouring tea. A small steam hole will help with pouring.

Various types of lids are possible and it depends on the actual form of the teapot which one would suit best.

A knob or a small handle may be attached to the lid which should complement the overall form of the teapot or you may want to add a fun-touch.

4. The handle

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The handle of the teapot should be strong and sturdy. It serves the purpose of pouring hot tea without scolding hands or fingers.

The handle should complement the form of the teapot or it may make a statement.

Handles can be made of bamboo and attached on clay lugs; they may be pulled, extruded, coiled or cut from a slab.

When pulling a handle place it over a big round bottle to firm up to achieve a round shape that sits nicely

over the teapot.

What you need to bring: Photo/s of favourite teapot/s, throwing tools (cutting wire, needle tool, metal or rubber rib, hole puncher, wooden or metal scraper,callipers, turning tools, bat mate and bats if you have) apron, towel.