Only recently I have embarked on pottery and ceramic making. It’s been something I’ve wanted to start for quite some time and I’m so glad I did.
The process is both relaxing and satisfying and reminds me of my playdough days when I was younger. Back when my imagination was limitless and my creations questionable!
Scrolling on Pinterest the other day I saw a beautiful ceramic egg tray and was inspired to make my own. After watching this YouTube video by Garage Clay I was convinced this was a feasible project.
Materials
- Clay – Stoneware clay is a good option for hand building projects such as this. Approximately 1 kg of clay makes a 12 egg tray.
- Work Surface – I use a square of MDF because it’s light, portable, and generally inexpensive (can be purchased from most local art supply stores).
- Rolling Pin – Keep this separate from the rolling pin used for baking and cooking. Second-hand stores often have them for affordable prices.
- Knife – Shouldn’t be mixed with food either so chose one you’re willing to sacrifice for pottery work. Special clay cutting tools can be purchased but are not essential for this project.
- Old Egg Carton – And scissors to cut it to size.
Step 1.
Start by removing the top flap of the egg carton. If the pillars down the middle of the carton are taller than the side walls of the carton, trim these down. Place carton aside.
Step 2.
Mold your chunk of clay into a rectangle shape by picking up your clay and repeatedly banging it down onto your work surface. The clay should be soft and will therefore take shape relatively quickly. This process also helps force out any air trapped inside the clay.
Step 3.
Roll the clay out until it’s about 1 cm (0.4 inches) thick. Ensure the thickness of the clay is the same all around this rolled out sheet. Two identical wooden sticks on either side of the sheet can also help achieve even thickness while rolling the clay out.
Step 4.
Place the egg carton over the sheet of clay to check it’s large enough. Cut around the carton, leaving about 3 cm (1.2 inches) from the edge of the carton.
Step 5.
Peel away the excess clay. Combine this into a ball and place in a airtight container or plastic bag. This can still be used for another project!
Step 6.
Lay the sheet of clay over the carton. Gently tap the carton down against the work surface. The clay will naturally stretch and fill out the carton.
Step 7.
Further accentuate and deepen each individual egg cup by lightly pressing your fingers into them. You can use a real egg to check the cups are deep enough to stabilise an egg (just be sure to wipe the egg thoroughly with a damp cloth afterwards).
Step 8.
Cut away any clay overhanging the carton and add it to the other chunk of leftover clay. Use your finger to gently smooth over the cut edge.
Step 9.
Continue to smooth over any bumps or cracks in the clay. Now leave to dry out of direct sunlight for one to two days.
Step 10.
Have your tray fired in a kiln and glaze it. If you don’t have access to a kiln or glazes, check whether there are any pottery clubs or groups nearby for you to join. For a small fee, I managed to join a club which provides access to a clubroom with kilns, tools, pottery wheels, and glazes. I decided to dip my tray into a glossy white glaze and flick it with glossy ocean blue glaze.
If you have a question, don’t hesitate to ask in the comments below. Similarly, I would love to hear your thoughts on this project including any tips or adjustments that worked for you!
Happy potting 😉