What does throwing off the hump mean in pottery?

Throwing off the hump is a technique used in pottery to remove excess clay from the center of a pot. This is done after the pot has been thrown on the wheel and the walls have been thickened. The potter uses a loop tool or a rib to cut around the base of the pot, then lifts the clay off and removes it. This creates a hollow space inside the pot, making it lighter and more durable.

Throwing off the hump is a critical step in pottery, as it allows the potter to control the thickness of the pot's walls and create a more balanced form. It also helps to prevent the pot from cracking or collapsing during firing.

Benefits of throwing off the hump:

  • Reduces the weight of the pot
  • Strengthens the pot's walls
  • Prevents the pot from collapsing during firing
  • Creates a more balanced form
  • Allows for greater control over the pot's shape

Related Questions:

  • What is the purpose of throwing off the hump in pottery?
    • To remove excess clay and create a hollow space inside the pot.
  • Why is throwing off the hump important?
    • It reduces weight, strengthens walls, and prevents cracking.
  • What tools are used for throwing off the hump?
    • Loop tool or rib.
  • When should a potter throw off the hump?
    • After the pot has been thrown and the walls thickened.
  • How does throwing off the hump affect the pot's shape?
    • It creates a more balanced form.

Related Products:

  • Shimpo VL Lite 10" Variable Speed Wheel
  • Speedball ClayBoss 30 Centrifugal Wheel
  • Bailey Pottery Tools Modeling Loop Tool
  • Kemper Tools Cutoff Rib
  • Laguna Gloria Pottery Wheel

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