Marianne,

Sorry to take so long in responding; I've been at the Potters Festival
in Wales(UK)


In article , Bubbles
writes

"Steve Mills" wrote in message
...
I dry out all my trimmings etc., then put them into a large bucket with
lots of water and mix it up with a heavy duty paint mixer in a drill, I
also add a bit of Cider Vinegar to help it sour quickly.

I've never heard of using vinegar in clay before. How do you mean that it
sours quickly? How much do you add? Tell me more, please!

The Vinegar promotes the growth of organic matter in the clay, which in
turn grows and dies and decomposes, this adds to the plasticity of the
clay and makes it wonderful to work with.
The Old traditional Potters used to pee on their clay heap to promote
the same effect. I prefer the smell of Cider!
I add a small cupful to a 15 Litre (plus) bucket.


The next step is to pour the slop into a trouser leg, preferably one
made of man-made fibres (they don't rot), with the bottom either sewn up
or tied in a knot, and hang it up to sweat dry. When it's a bit too firm
on the outside, it's a bit soft inside, so I peal of the leg, cut it
into lumps and bag it. When I need some I wedge & knead enough for the
day and use it.

I did that before I got my board made, but now I am trying the board method.
Problem with hanging socks, is that they drip! :-)

This is true, but I stick a bowl or bucket under it to catch the drips

Steve

I know this sounds like a lot of work but it truly isn't; just a few
minutes each day and no BIG effort. Also a hanging *sock* of clay takes
up much less room than a full drying board.

I love to work reclaiming clay and wedging - it is a kind of meditation for
me - so it doesn't matter how long it takes.

Marianne



--
Steve Mills
Bath
UK