How to Center Clay on the Potter's Wheel

Center the Clay by Pushing It

Clay can be centered on the potter's wheel by pushing the clay into the middle of the wheelhead or bat.

Photo © 2008 Janet L. Giles

Another method of centering clay is to push it. To do this, place your hands on either side of the clay as it rotates and push in toward the center. Again, this method works best with smaller amounts of clay, about three pounds of clay or less.

Be certain to control the top of the clay with your thumbs. Use the lower edge of your palm to ensure the very base of the dome is also centered.

• Smack the Clay onto the Bat
• Overview of Centering Clay on the Potter's Wheel
• Center by Pulling the Clay
• Center the Clay by Pushing It
• Centering Clay with a Braced Palm
• Wheel Wedging While Centering