Step-by-Step Guide: Making Mugs with Pottery Slab Templates

Learn How to Make a Slab-Built Mug

This free step-by-step video + photo guide walks you through the exact process I use in my studio.

Haven’t set up your clay and templates yet? Start with the Before You Begin & Intel guide.”

This tutorial is free and open, and it pairs with my printable pottery templates.

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Step-by-Step Tutorial Section

The slab-building sequence moves from forming the Body to adding the Bottom, then attaching Handle. This same sequence technique can be used for building any of my designs, from simple mugs to more complex forms.

Roll

Roll out your clay into an even slab using a rolling pin.

Compress

Use a rib tool to compress and smooth the clay surface.

Cut

Cut the slab to your desired shape using a template.

⋆.˚ Tip ⋆.˚

Transfer the template to a balsa wood shape and use cookie cutters.

Cut

Cut both edges using an angle cutter tool. Remember to flip and turn after cutting the first edge.

Score

Create texture on both edges.

Brush slip

Apply slip (vinegar) to the scored areas.

Curve and press

Curve the clay into a cylinder shape and firmly press scored and slipped edges together.

Smooth

Smooth the interior with a wooden tool.

Flip

Turn the piece over carefully to work on the other side.

Score

Create texture on the base.

Brush slip

Apply slip to the newly scored area.

Add bottom

Attach the circular base to create the bottom.

Nice!

Check your work and assess overall shape.

Flip and join

Turn and connect the base to the body.

Join

Secure all connections. Push the clay of the base into the body.

Tap

Gently tap , many times, refine connect.

Tap again

Continue refining the form for evenness.

Clean rim

Smooth and refine the top edge with a sponge.

Clean base

Smooth and refine the bottom edge.

Smooth interior

Refine the inside surface with a brush.

Clean handle

Prep the handle area for attachment.

Score handle

Create texture on the handle connection point.

Score body

Create texture on the cup where handle will attach.

Attach

Connect the handle to the cup body.

Smooth

Blend connection points on both sides. Use your wood tool and brush.

Smooth

Use your finger to smooth out any imperfections.

Let Dry

Drying time will depend on your climate and clay thickness – I usually wait about 2 days until they're fully bone dry.

Next steps

Once completely dry, your pieces are ready for bisque firing. After the bisque firing, you can glaze them as you wish.