C-27 Hook-shaped tools for wheel-throwing are designed to solve one of the most challenging problems in wheel-throwing: shaping the inside of deep and narrow vessels where the potter's hand or arm cannot reach.
- Broad, Thick, Rounded-Head Group (C-27#3 and C-27#4) Used for lowering into tall glasses or deep cylindrical vases to swell the clay from the inside out, helping to shape the bottom of the vase into a smooth, rounded curve. The broad face of the tool also helps to smooth out fingerprints on the inside.
- Slender, Flat Paddle-Head Group (C-27#21 and C-27#22) Suitable for inserting to scrape away excess water and slurry accumulated at the bottom of the vase, and for pressing against the inner wall of the vase from the bottom upwards to stretch the clay higher and achieve consistent wall thickness.
- Right-Angle/Curved Hook-Head Group (C-27#18, C-27#19, and C-27#20) Used for shaping the "narrow neck" or "shoulder" of a vase. * When the potter has narrowed the opening of the vase too much for fingers to fit, but wants to swell the inner shoulder, this hook tool is inserted into the narrow opening. The curved back of the hook is then used to push the inner clay outwards. The inner right-angle of the hook can be used to brace and support the narrow rim of the vase, preventing it from wobbling or deforming during shaping.
Additional Tips
- Hold the handle of the tool firmly and lower the head into the vase. Simultaneously, the "other hand on the outside" must constantly support, touch, and apply opposing pressure at the point opposite the tool head. This controls the clay's thickness and direction, preventing the vase from becoming distorted or collapsing.
- To reduce heat and friction before inserting the tool into the piece, always moisten the tool head with water or slip to reduce friction and prevent the tool from sticking to the sticky clay, which could cause the piece to twist or break.
- Versatile pointed end: Notice that the end of tool C-27#18 is sharpened like a wooden rib. Potters often use this pointed end for undercutting excess clay near the wheel head before using a cutting wire.