Leaf Bowls

Fourth Grade Leaf Bowls

I love these fun fall leaves. They are quite easy to do if you are fortunate enough to have a kiln at your

fingertips!

Each student starts with a fist sized lump of potters

clay.  Review and complete wedging of the clay as usual (to prepare it from air bubbles, etc.)

Simply roll the clay into 1/4" slabs using rolling pins and two guide sticks which help you get an even result.

Place a large leaf over the clay- facing up so that the veins are down.  I have them select leaves as big as their hand- spread wide.  Roll the leaf twice to press the design into the clay. 

Use a sharp trimming tool (thin/long nails, an opened thick paper clip or better clay tools work well here) to cut the outline of the leaf shape.

Smooth the rough edges with one finger and a bit of water. 

Lay some plastic wrap, a paper towel or a thin cotton cloth inside of a disposable paper bowl. Lay your clay leaf inside of the bowl and gently press it down to take its new shape.

Dry for several days and kiln process as usual.

I love to use Sax colorburst glazes for fantastic fall results!

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Have fun with this one!