Carving stiff leather-hard clay can be used to decorate pottery as well as to create sculptures. In this case, the carving is being done to a lump of clay which will be carved into a cup complete with face on the side.
There is a plethora of carving tools, some made specifically for clay work and others you may make or adapt for your own purposes. Sharp knives are helpful in removing large areas quickly. Ribbon and loop tools can remove and begin shaping sections. Dental tools and other fine tools can be used for detail work.
One of the most overlooked carving tools is the brush. Used dry, it can help clear dust from areas, thereby allowing you to see your project better. However, it is when brushes are wet with water that they really come into their own. A wet brush can remove clay in smooth, lyrical lines. In addition, they also can be used to smooth any carving marks left behind by other tools.
