Fig. 4.20
Marking the positions of the pot-rests
Fig. 4.21
An alternative way of making sure that the pot-rests are equally spaced is to make a template marking
where the pot-rests should go. The template is an equilateral triangle (a triangle, with all sides equal) made
of metal bar or wood, with each side measuring 35 cm.
Step 17
Sprinkle a little ash inside the pot-rest mould and tip out any excess to
make a "non-stick" surface.
Fig 4.22 A pot-rest mould
Step 18
Make three large eggs from the clay. Note that it must not be very
wet. To make a pot-rest, press one of the clay eggs into the pot-rest
mould, making sure that it completely fills the mould. Remove any
excess clay. To remove it from the mould, stick a small ball of clay
to the clay surface and pull the pot-rest free from the mould. Make
two more pot-rests in the same way.
Fig. 4.23 Making pot-rests
Step 19
To attach the pot-rests to the liner, scratch the two surfaces which are to be
joined and coat each surface with a thick watery clay mix (slip). Attach the top
of the pot-rest to the top of the liner, holding it firmly in place as you bend the
pot-rest down to attach it to the inside of the liner. Ensure that there is no air
trapped in the joint, as this can cause the pot-rest to break off during firing.
Repeat the process for the other two potrests. The top of the pot-rests should
be 1 cm higher than the top of the stove. Make sure all three pot-rests are the
same shape and size and that all the joints are smooth and well finished.
Fig. 4.24 Attaching the pot-rests