Chloe Zhang
Removing pottery from a plastic bat can be challenging due to the lack of water absorption, which can cause the clay to bind and warp. Potters often face the dilemma of releasing their creations from the bat without causing any damage. Various techniques can be employed to achieve this, such as waiting for the clay to dry and pop off cleanly, using a wire to cut the pot free, or creating bat remover handles from plastic bags to safely remove the bat without distorting the pot. The choice of technique depends on factors such as the shape of the pot and the potter's skill level.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic bats pros | Light in weight, durable, can be left in water for long periods without warping or damage |
| Plastic bats cons | Difficult to release pots, more expensive than Masonite |
| Masonite pros | Less expensive, easier to remove pots |
| Masonite cons | More absorptive, shorter lifespan, prone to water damage |
| Removing pots from plastic bats | Allow to dry, trim a notch at the base, use a knife or pin tool to break suction, wire off |
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What You'll Learn
Let the clay dry and it should pop off the bat
Leaving your clay to dry is a great, low-effort method to release your pot from a plastic bat. This technique is especially useful if you are not in a hurry and want to avoid the hassle of wiring the pot off the bat.
If you have already trimmed your pot, it is unlikely to stick to the bat. However, if it does, simply leave it for a while and it will eventually pop off the bat when it is dry and ready. Covering your pot with plastic or a container can help regulate the drying process. This is particularly useful if you live in a humid environment, as it can slow down the drying process.
If you are using a plastic bat, be aware that it does not absorb water from the clay like plaster. This means that your pot may bind and warp if left on the bat for too long. To avoid this, keep an eye on your pot and remove it from the bat once it is dry enough to hold its shape.
To remove the pot from the bat, grab the bat by the corners and gently flex it downward. This will cause the corners to go down and the pot to pop up, releasing it from the bat. If you hear a popping sound, that's a good sign that your pot has been successfully released.
By following these simple steps, you can easily release your pot from a plastic bat without the need for wiring or complex techniques. Remember to be patient and let the clay dry at its own pace to ensure the best results.
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Cut the pot off with a wire
Cutting the pot off the plastic bat with a wire is a delicate process that requires precision and care. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
First, it is important to understand the properties of plastic bats. Unlike other materials, plastic does not absorb water from the clay, which can make releasing the pot more challenging. Potters often find that removing a clay pot from a plastic bat can be tricky, and it may require more effort than other types of bats.
Next, select an appropriate wire for the task. A commonly used option is a 25-pound test fishing line, which can effectively cut through the clay and provide a clean release from the bat. This type of wire is known for its strength and ability to create a very thin cut.
When you are ready to cut, position the wire tightly and flatly against the bat. You want to apply 100% strength to ensure the wire is flush against the surface. Then, lean over and slide the wire against the bat, carefully and firmly. This action will release the pot from the bat without causing any damage to your creation.
It is important to note that the timing of the cutting process matters. Ideally, you want to cut the pot off when the clay is ready for trimming and still a bit sticky. If the pot has dried too much, you may need to use a water mister to add moisture back into the clay, focusing on the edges rather than the centre. This added moisture will help loosen the bond between the pot and the bat, making it easier to cut without distorting your pot's shape.
Finally, be prepared to gently pry the pot off the bat if necessary. Even after cutting, there may still be some adhesion between the pot and the bat. By carefully applying some force, you should be able to pop the pot off without causing any harm to your creation. Remember, the goal is to release the pot from the plastic bat while preserving the integrity and beauty of your handcrafted piece.
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Use a knife or pin tool to break the suction cup effect
Removing pots from plastic bats can be challenging due to the suction cup effect. This effect is especially strong with thin plastic bats, and it can be difficult to break the seal without damaging the pot. One effective method to overcome this issue is to use a knife or pin tool to carefully break the suction cup seal between the pot and the bat. This technique involves inserting a thin, sharp object between the pot and the bat to release the vacuum holding them together.
When using a knife or pin tool, it is important to be gentle and patient to avoid damaging your pottery. Start by carefully inserting the knife or pin tool between the pot and the bat, slowly working your way around the edge of the pot. Apply gentle pressure to break the suction cup seal, being cautious not to scratch or mark the surface of your pot. It is important to work slowly and methodically to avoid any sudden releases that could distort your pottery.
The knife or pin tool method is a simple and effective way to break the suction cup effect and release your pot from the plastic bat. However, it requires a steady hand and patience to ensure the process does not damage your artwork. It is important to work cautiously and pay close attention to the pressure you are applying to avoid any unintended consequences.
Additionally, it is worth noting that there are alternative methods to release pots from plastic bats. Some potters suggest waiting for the clay to dry further, as it will eventually pop off the bat when it is ready. Others recommend using a wire to cut the pot off the bat, especially if the pot has a thin base. These methods can be used in conjunction with the knife or pin tool technique to ensure a successful release without damaging the pot.
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Trim a notch at the base with an angled trim tool
Trimming a notch at the base of a pot with an angled trim tool is a useful skill to have when working with pottery bats. This technique is especially relevant when using plastic bats, as they can be tricky to remove due to the lack of water absorption. By creating a notch, you can carefully loosen the pot from the bat without resorting to wiring, which may disturb the shape of your creation.
To begin, use an angled trim tool to create a notch at the base of your pot. This step should be done after throwing the pot but before it dries completely. The notch will serve as a starting point for lifting the pot from the bat. It is important to work quickly, as you want the clay to still be malleable.
Once the notch is in place, cover the pot with plastic. This will help retain moisture and prevent the clay from drying too quickly. You can also use a water mister to spray the edges of the pot, ensuring they stay damp. Aim the mister towards the edges, avoiding the centre of the pot.
As you wait, the base of the pot will begin to lift slightly at the notched area. This is due to the moisture escaping from the clay, causing it to shrink and lift away from the bat. You may need to be patient during this step, as the timing will depend on the thickness of your pot's base and the humidity in the environment.
Finally, when you notice the base has lifted enough, carefully wiggle the pot to release it from the bat. If needed, you can use a wire to carefully separate the pot from the bat without removing any clay. With practice, you'll be able to perfect the timing and technique, ensuring your pots release smoothly from the plastic bat without any distortion.
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Use a clay bag to make a bat remover handle
Releasing a pot from a plastic bat can be tricky. Plastic bats do not absorb water from clay like plaster, so the clay can bind and warp. However, there are some tips and tricks to help with the removal process. One such trick is to use a clay bag to make a bat remover handle. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Firstly, cut the top three inches off of a clay bag, keeping the plastic intact as one continuous loop. This strip will serve as your bat remover handle. Ensure that you are using a thicker plastic bag, preferably the ones used for packaging moist clay, as thinner bags may not be strong enough for this purpose.
Next, lay this strip across your wheel head, carefully placing it near but not over the pins. This strategic placement will ensure that you can access the loop when you need to remove the bat.
After placing the strip, position the bat on the wheelhead. Now you are ready to throw your piece of clay!
When you are finished shaping your clay and want to remove the bat, simply place your index fingers inside the overhanging loops of the plastic strip. Pull upwards with equal force on both sides of the loop. This action will lift the bat off the wheel without disturbing the shape of your freshly created clay piece.
By using this simple method, you can easily remove the bat and avoid any potential issues with releasing the pot from the plastic bat. This trick can be a handy tool for any potter working with plastic bats and looking for a smooth removal process.
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Frequently asked questions
If the clay is ready for trimming, it should pop off the bat cleanly. If it doesn't, you can try gently prying it off. You can also try cutting it off with a wire.
Plastic bats do not absorb water from the clay like plaster. This means that the clay can bind and warp, making it difficult to release from the bat.
Before placing the clay on the bat, trim a notch at the base with an angled trim tool. Then, cover it with plastic. Spray the top with water to prevent it from drying out too much. Eventually, the base will start to lift at the notch, and you can wiggle the pot off the bat.
Yes, there are pottery bats made from Medex, which is a sustainable, moisture-resistant MDF. Masonite pottery bats are also cheaper and more absorbent than plastic bats, making it easier to remove your pieces. However, they are more susceptible to water damage and have a shorter lifespan.
When wiring off the pot, press the wire down flush against the bat and then slide it against the bat to release the piece. You can also make "bat remover handles" out of the top three inches of plastic bags that clay is packaged in.
