Lesson Plan
Grades 3-5
Texture
“Textured Clay Bowls”
Step 1: Make Slab and Drape
Create a large, circular slab and gently press it
into the styrofoam bowl using the “pie crust
technique” described in the video linked in Step
3.
Step 2: Trim and Smooth Edges
Place the bowl upside-down and trim off excess
clay with a cutting tool. Next, smooth the edges
all the way around using a sponge and a little
water.
Step 3: Add Texture and Finish
Objective: Create functional clay bowls
with added texture.
Materials
Use found objects, rubber stamps or bisque tools
(preferred) to create a pattern/design around
the edge of the bowl. Leave the clay in the
styrofoam bowls overnight to dry. John Post
demonstrates this lesson step-by-step right
here.
• Ceramic clay
• Rolling Pins and ⅜” Dowels
• Brushes (large and small)
• Clay Cutting Tools and Sponges
• Styrofoam Bowls and Bisque Stamps
Tip: Make sure students practice using the
stamping tools to assess for correct pressure.
Excess clay trimmed from the bowl’s edge is
great for practice.
Motivation
Tip: Walk around the room while the kids are
rolling their slabs. An even, flat clay slab is critical
to this process.
•Show images of functional bowls as inspiration.
•Discuss how patterns repeat. Explain what an
alternating pattern is.
•Discuss the difference between decorative and
functional bowls. If kids stamp textures into the
bottom of the bowl, it decreases the functionality.
Driving a spoon across the bottom becomes like
driving a car down a road full of potholes.
Tip: Make sure to choose FOOD SAFE glazes.
Glaze manufacturers use a coding system on
their glazes. Select glazes from the food safe
category and fire to the recommended
temperature.
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