How Do You Pinch Pot Plants?

Pinch potting is a simple yet fun way of creating planters for your favorite plants. All you need is some clay, your hands, and a little bit of creativity. In this article, we’ll take you through the step-by-step process of making pinch pot planters.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

The first step in pinch potting is gathering your materials. You’ll need a ball of clay, a rolling pin, a knife or clay cutter, and a smooth surface to work on. Make sure that your clay is free of air bubbles and relatively moist but not overly wet.

Step 2: Create the Base of Your Pot

Next, take your ball of clay and roll it out using your rolling pin until it’s a flat disc. Make sure that it’s thick enough to support your plant’s weight, but not too thick as it will be difficult to mold. Use your clay cutter or knife to trim the edges of the disc to make it circular.

Step 3: Pinch the Sides of the Pot

This is where the fun begins. Using your thumb, press into the center of the clay disc and push it outwards. Gradually work your way around the disc, pinching and pushing the clay with your fingers until you have a bowl-like shape. Keep in mind that the size of your pinch pot will depend on the size of your plant.

Step 4: Smooth Out the Surface

Once you have the size you want, smooth out the surface of the pot with your fingers. You can use a damp sponge or a scraper to create different textures and designs on the surface of your pot. Get creative and experiment with different patterns and shapes.

Step 5: Let Your Pot Dry

Set your pot aside and let it dry completely before firing it in the kiln. Make sure that it’s not touching any other objects and that it’s not in a drafty area. Depending on the thickness of your pot and the climate you’re in, drying can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.

Step 6: Fire Your Pot

Finally, your pinch pot is ready to be fired in the kiln. This process will harden the clay and make it durable enough to hold your plant. Depending on the type of clay you used and the temperature of your kiln, this process can take a few hours to several days.

Caring for Your Pinch Pot Planter

Once your pot is fired and cooled down, it’s ready for use. Make sure that you clean it thoroughly before adding any plants. You can use a damp cloth to wipe it clean or soak it in water for a few minutes. Avoid using any harsh chemicals as this can damage the surface of your pot.

Pinch potting is a great way of creating unique and stylish planters for your indoor or outdoor spaces. With a little bit of patience and practice, anyone can learn how to make pinch pot planters. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your materials and start pinching!