The Art of the Pitcher
A pitcher that drips is a failure, no matter how beautiful it looks. A pitcher that pours cleanly, balances gracefully, and feels natural in the hand is a triumph. The difference is in the spout, the handle, and the proportions — three elements that must work together perfectly.
Stephen Jepson considered the pitcher one of the best tests of a potter's skill. The spout reveals your understanding of clay flow. The handle shows your pulling technique. The body demonstrates your throwing control.
Throwing the Pitcher Body
Form and Proportion
Start with about two to three pounds of clay for a one-quart pitcher. Center and open wide. Pull the walls tall and even — about seven to eight inches. Keep the walls slightly thicker than a vase because the piece must hold liquid and support a handle.
The Spout
Form the spout while the clay is still on the wheel. Use a wet finger to press and pull the rim outward at one point, creating a gentle V-shaped channel. The key to a drip-free pour is a sharp, thin edge at the tip of the spout.
The Handle
Pull a handle from a thick coil of clay. The handle should be about three-quarters of an inch wide. Attach opposite the spout, with the top attachment at the rim and the bottom about halfway down the body.
Pitcher Sizes
Cream Pitcher
A small, elegant pitcher holding about one cup. Use about half a pound of clay. Small pitchers are charming and make excellent gifts.
Water Pitcher
Holds about one quart to half a gallon. The handle must support the weight of a full pitcher comfortably.
Learn from Stephen Jepson
Stephen's pottery video lessons cover every aspect of pitcher making — throwing tall forms, pulling spouts, pulling and attaching handles. One-time purchase, lifetime access to all lessons.