Using Stamps And Texture Wheels

[Joe_L]

How do you apply texture stamps and wheels to cylindrical forms and bowls without distorting them? When applying the stamp you need enough pressure to make the mark adequately but that level of pressure distorts the form. Software clay is easier to stamp but equally easier to distort, and vice versa.

 

I've tried balancing the force against a finger or even another stamp on the inside which helps but doesn't really solve it.

 

I suppose I could "go with it" artistically and accept the distortion as part of the form. Or as some have suggested using the stamps early in the making and finish the form off after using the stamp - in effect distorting the stamp rather than the form.

 

Any other ideas?  (P.S. I usually throw rather than handbuild)

Joe

[oldlady]

joe, i love the tiny typo, software clay.  what is the real word, please.

 

i use a rolling pin without handles inside a cylinder and even have a wooden ball on a stick for odd shapes.

[Pugaboo]

I have taken to making bisque molds of my most common sizes and shapes and slip them inside the formed piece and apply the texture to the outside. The mold makes the form hold its shape and not distort and gives you a rigid surface to press against. You can also use found objects like pool noodles, plastic bowls, pieces of wood etc.

 

T

[Joe_L]

softer clay!! 

 

By which I mean making impressions at the soft leather stage. I also tried letting it firm up more so the form is more resistant but of course you need more pressure to make the impression so that doesn't help either.

 

After software clay the next step will be virtual clay

[Joe_L]

Thanks OldLady and Pugaboo, so the key is finding or making a matching supporting surface.

Joe

[Magnolia Mud Research]

I use stamps on the exterior of thrown bowls, etc. by supporting the piece inside with my hand while pressing the stamp with the other.  When using roller stamps, it is the same, but the wheel is slowly turning.

 

After the impressions are made, I then expand the pot somewhat to return it to its 'round' shape, and to reform the rim.  I generally go beyond just 'round' to significantly expand the pot and distort and stretch the impressions. 

 

One must remember that decorating the pot surface this way implies that the pot will not be trimmed in the area where the 'decoration' is applied. 

 

I sometimes stamp designs on one or two spots of round bowls or cylinders after the pot is finished and leave the shape distortion as part of the pot's design.

 

LT