Bottle Necks

In this workshop, you’ll learn how to create elegant, elongated forms by mastering the techniques needed to throw and shape bottleneck forms. From short and chunky shapes to tall, sculptural vases, we’ll look at how to build a strong foundation before bringing the neck into your form.

We’ll start with preparing and centring your clay before developing a strong, consistent cylinder. From there, you’ll learn how to lift evenly, manage wall thickness and control your rim, giving you the stability needed to create taller and more delicate forms.

You’ll discover how to bring in the top third of your piece to create different styles of neck, how to use pressure and compression effectively, and how to work with thinner clay without losing control or structure.

We’ll also cover common problems such as flare-outs, sagging and losing your shape mid-throw, giving you practical techniques to make adjustments and recover your form as you work.

This workshop is ideal for intermediate potters who are already confident centring and lifting on the wheel and want to develop their skills with taller, more expressive forms.

What you'll learn

• How to prepare and centre clay for bottleneck forms
• How to create a strong, consistent cylinder as the foundation for your piece
• How to lift evenly while maintaining consistent wall thickness
• How hand position and pressure affect your lifts
• How to use a sponge when working with taller forms
• How to troubleshoot flare-outs, sagging and loss of shape
• How to bring in the top third of your form to create different styles of neck
• Where and when to apply pressure and compression
• How to work with thinner clay without losing structure
• How to create balanced proportions in taller forms
• How to experiment with different shapes and styles