The Five Core Wheel Techniques
Every pot thrown on a wheel follows the same sequence: center, open, pull, shape, trim. Master each stage and you can make anything — bowls, mugs, vases, plates. Rush any stage and the pot pays for it.
Centering the Clay
Centering is the foundation. Place your wedged clay on the wheel head, wet your hands, and use steady, symmetrical pressure to push the clay into a perfectly balanced dome. The wheel should spin fast — this is where speed is your friend.
Opening the Clay
Once centered, press your thumbs into the top center while the wheel spins at medium speed. Push down to within half an inch of the bat, then widen outward to establish your floor. The floor width determines everything that follows.
Pulling Walls
Place one hand inside and one outside at the base of the wall. Squeeze gently and draw upward in smooth, steady motions. Use minimal water — just enough to keep your hands gliding. Three to four gradual pulls beat one aggressive one every time.
Shaping the Form
With your walls established, slow the wheel down and use gentle inward or outward pressure to create your desired shape. Support the outside while shaping from within for bowls. For cylinders, keep even pressure on both sides.
Trimming and Finishing
After the piece dries to leather-hard, invert it on the wheel and use trimming tools to refine the foot ring, remove excess clay from the bottom, and create a clean, balanced profile. This is where a good pot becomes a beautiful one.
"The wheel doesn't make the pot — your hands do. The wheel just holds the clay still while you work."
— Stephen Jepson, 93 years old, master potter, Geneva, Florida
Why Learn Wheel Techniques From Stephen Jepson?
Stephen Jepson has been throwing pottery for decades. At 93, he still works at the wheel daily in his Geneva, Florida studio. His teaching method breaks every technique into its smallest components so you can see exactly what your hands should be doing at each moment.
His video course covers every wheel technique shown above — and dozens more — with close-up camera angles that show hand position, pressure, and timing in real detail. You won't just watch someone throw; you'll understand why each movement matters.
What the Video Course Covers
- Stephen's centering method — reliable and repeatable, even for beginners
- Opening techniques for bowls, cylinders, and wide forms
- Wall-pulling sequences that build even thickness every time
- Shaping strategies for different vessel types
- Trimming tools, techniques, and when to trim
- Common mistakes at each stage and how to correct them instantly