Beginning potters will learn to make plates, bowls, vases, and other fine, useful items on the wheel with this accessible guide. This informative and practical handbook is for anyone who wants to try their hand at clay and create fine, useful things by hand.

Here's everything you need to know about making pottery on the wheel, including
- shape and design;
- the necessary tools and types of clay;
- throwing, kneading, and turning; and
- finishing processes--drying, glazing, and firing.

As you master the basics, you'll apply them to creating a series of progressively more difficult items--cups, bowls, plates, pitchers, vases, and platters. You'll learn to add features like spouts and handles and explore modifying shapes, designs, and colors to design your own pottery.

Learning pottery techniques takes time, practice, and patience. But with this book, you can easily master the techniques--and enjoy the meditative experience of working with clay.