Jiggering is a pottery technique that dates back thousands of years. It is used to form clay into uniform shapes and sizes, resulting in a more efficient and accurate pottery-making process. Teaching students about jiggering is an important part of pottery education, as it helps them understand the history and evolution of the craft, but also provides them with valuable skills that can be used to improve their own work.
One of the benefits of jiggering is its ability to produce consistent pieces. Clay is pressed into a mold, and then a rotating arm attached to the jiggering machine shapes the clay into a uniform shape. This technique is often used in mass production pottery, where consistency is key. By incorporating this technique into their work, students can create more uniform pieces of pottery, which can be especially useful in functional pieces such as plates and bowls.
In addition to improving consistency, jiggering can also save time. The jiggering machine allows the student to shape clay faster and more efficiently than they might be able to do by hand. This is particularly helpful when producing large quantities of a particular item or shape.
Teaching students how to use a jiggering machine can be a bit challenging, as the technique requires a certain level of precision, and the machines must be properly maintained. However, the rewards of teaching this technique can be significant. By working with the jiggering machine, students gain hands-on experience with a valuable tool used in the pottery field. Additionally, understanding how to use this tool can give students a deeper appreciation for the art of pottery-making.
Overall, teaching students about jiggering is an important component of pottery education. The technique has been used for centuries, and has helped revolutionize the way potters create their work. By giving students the skills to incorporate jiggering into their own work, they can improve their consistency, efficiency, and overall understanding of the craft. With these skills, students will be well on their way to becoming proficient potters and artists in their own right.
