Busy in the workshop

I half wrapped these pieces on Monday, so that the tops could dry to the same consistency as the bases.
I have now used my thumbs to smooth the clay being careful not to trap any pockets of air.
My phone no longer recognises my thumbprint which is no longer there! This clay is like sandpaper!

These pieces are now a consistent dryness and I can really work the surfaces. I use a steel kidney to pull the clay from the high points, into the dips. Compressing the clay as I work around the piece.

I want to manipulate this piece now that it is dryer, so I’m using this wooden bat to alter the shape and work on making a really satisfying curve. It is important to only use this tool once the clay is dry enough, or it will collapse.