Once your thrown pieces has dried to a leather hard stage, you can trim your piece.

Key Steps for Trimming Pottery

1. Center & Secure:
   • Place your leather-hard pot upside down on the wheel head.
   • Use small lumps of clay (or a Giffin Grip) to center it firmly and prevent wobbling.
2. Prepare the Surface:
   • Gently spin the wheel and use a damp sponge to smooth the interior and check for high spots.
3. Mark the Foot:
   • Use a needle tool to mark the desired diameter of the foot ring (roughly 1/3 to 1/2 the rim’s diameter).
4. Trim the Exterior:
   • Start removing clay from the outer wall, working from the base towards the rim, creating an even thickness.
   • Use your trimming tool at a slight angle (25-45°) for smooth cuts.
5. Define the Foot:
   • Trim the exterior of the foot ring, then trim the inside of the foot from the center outwards, gradually thinning the base.
   • Create a smooth curve connecting the foot to the body and round the sharp edge of the foot ring.
6. Refine & Finish:
   • Check wall and floor thickness by pressing gently; it shouldn’t feel flimsy.
   • Use a rib tool to smooth surfaces and a damp sponge to clean up. 

Pro Tips

• Stability: Brace your elbows against your body for steady, controlled movements.
• Clay Consistency: Trim when clay is firm (leather-hard) for best results, but not too dry.
• Visualize: Keep the finished piece’s shape in mind as you trim.
• Don’t Rush: Slow wheel speed and deliberate movements prevent errors.