Pottery Templates for Clay Slab Projects: The Core Slab-Building Technique

If you've ever wanted to build pottery with clay slabs but weren't sure where to start, I want to show you something that changed the way I work.

You don't need a different technique for every shape.

The same basic process can be used to build mugs, vases, planters, trays, vessels, and so many other slab-built forms.

Cut. Score. Slip. Join.

Once you understand that core technique, the possibilities become much bigger than any single pottery template.

I've put together a collection of resources to help you learn the process, practice it, and start designing your own pieces.

[The Builder's Library →]

The core slab-building technique

This is my favorite part of teaching slab building because once you understand it, you can apply it to almost anything.

Start with an evenly rolled slab of clay.

Then:

1. Cut your clay using a template or your own pattern.

2. Score the edges that will be joined.

3. Add slip to both surfaces.

4. Join the pieces carefully, compressing the seam so the connection is strong.

That's the basic system.

The shapes may change. The number of pieces may change. The proportions may change.

But the fundamental technique stays the same.

This is why I think templates are so useful: they don't replace learning how to build with slabs. They give you a clear shape to practice the technique with, so you can spend less time figuring out measurements and more time actually making.

Watch the slab-building series

I've also put together a slab-building video series where I demonstrate the process in real clay.

The series goes beyond simply showing you how to make one particular object. I want you to understand the technique well enough that you can use it for your own projects.

Watch the slab-building series →

If you only watch one thing, start with the video about the core technique and how to use a pottery template. They are the foundation for everything else in the series.

The Builder's Library

I've created the Builder's Library as a free resource for anyone who wants to learn and experiment with slab building.

Inside you'll find:

• Assembly sheets showing how different forms come together

• Short demonstration videos covering the building process and essential techniques

• A slab-making visual guide with the process explained step by step

• Welcome notes to help you get oriented

Open the Builder's Library →

Think of it as a starting point you can return to whenever you need a refresher.

So where do pottery templates come in?

Once you understand the core technique, templates become a really powerful tool.

Instead of measuring and calculating every piece from scratch, you can start with a tested shape and concentrate on the parts that make the piece yours:

surface, texture, color, proportion, handles, feet, decoration, and finishing.

For example, the same slab-building process can be used to make:

• mugs and cups

• vases

• planters

• trays and plates

• small vessels

• candle holders

• sculptural forms

A template gives you the starting geometry. What you do with it is up to you.

Designed by a potter. Tested in clay.
See what I’m making, testing and teaching with From Fran templates.
Follow @from_fran

Why I use templates in my own studio

I originally started making templates because I wanted a more consistent and efficient way to build.

When you're making one piece, measuring and adjusting everything by hand can be part of the fun.

But when you're making multiple pieces, teaching a class, developing a collection, or simply want to spend more time experimenting with the surface of your work, having a reliable pattern makes a huge difference.

Templates let me repeat a form while still leaving plenty of room for creativity.

And because I make and test the forms myself in clay, I can work through the practical details before turning them into templates for other potters.

Start with the technique. Then make it your own.

You don't need to memorize dozens of different slab-building methods.

Start by learning the core technique.

Practice joining a few simple pieces.

Then start changing the shape.

Make it taller. Wider. Smaller. Add a handle. Change the opening. Combine forms. Add texture. Experiment with color.

That's where slab building gets really exciting.

The goal isn't to make one particular piece exactly as I made it.

It's to understand the technique well enough that you can use it to make something of your own.

Explore the templates

If you're ready to start building, you can browse my collection of pottery templates for slab building.

Explore Pottery Templates →

And if you're just getting started, take a look at the Builder's Library and the slab-building video series first. They're designed to give you the foundation you need to feel more confident working with slabs.