Beginner Pottery Tutorial: How to Hand Build a Mug

Learn the art of hand building mugs with simple tools and techniques

Are you curious about hand building a mug from scratch? Whether you’re a pottery enthusiast or a complete beginner, this step-by-step guide will help you create a beautiful mug using just a lump of clay and minimal tools.

Materials you need:

A lump of clay
A turntable or wheel
Basic pottery tools

To start, place your wheel in the center of the turntable. Ensure you have one hand on the wheel and keep your other hand flexible. Begin by placing the clay in the middle of the wheel. With your right hand and thumb, dig through the center of the clay to create the opening of your mug. Be cautious about the depth—keep a little extra clay at the base to avoid making the bottom too thin.

Once the center is formed, use your thumb in the center and four fingers outside to pinch the walls of the mug. Rotate the wheel as you gently pinch the clay, ensuring even walls as you move. It's essential to go slowly, gradually increasing the height while rotating. When working at the base, consider picking up the piece for better control.

As you progress, you can start deciding on the shape. Whether you want a broader base or a taller mug, make adjustments by pinching and pulling the clay upward. Keep rotating the mug to maintain even thickness throughout. During the hand-building process, cracks may appear. Don’t worry! Simply use a damp sponge to smooth out the imperfections. Continue working the walls and rim until they are as even as possible.

To finish the mug, you can use a rib tool to smooth out the surface further. Hold your hand inside the mug for support while applying pressure with the rib on the outside. Smooth the exterior with a damp sponge for a polished finish.

Creating a hand-built mug is a rewarding process that combines creativity and technique. With practice, you’ll be crafting beautiful pieces in no time.

Learn handmade ceramics and 3D modeling techniques with Garbo Zhu, creator of Grumpy Kid Studio, in her Domestika course.