Question

Interview a person skilled in making earthen pots to learn how they are made.

• What type of clay is used?
• Where do we get the clay?
• How much time is needed to make one pot?

Answer 1

I interviewed a potter in my locality to understand how earthen pots are made. He explained the complete process of selecting clay, preparing it, shaping the pot, drying it and baking it in a kiln.

1. What type of clay is used for making earthen pots?
   Soft, fine, smooth and sticky potter’s clay is used. The clay should be free from stones, roots and other impurities so that it can be shaped easily.
2. Where do we get the clay?
   Clay is usually obtained from river banks, ponds, lakes, fields and natural clay deposits. It is collected, cleaned and mixed with water before use.
3. How much time is needed to make one pot?
   Shaping one pot on the potter’s wheel may take about 15 to 30 minutes, depending on its size and design. However, drying and firing take more time, so the complete process may take 2 to 4 days or more.
4. How is the clay prepared before making the pot?
   The clay is first cleaned and mixed with water. It is then kneaded thoroughly to remove air bubbles and make it soft and uniform.
5. Which tool is mainly used to shape the pot?
   A potter’s wheel is mainly used. The clay is placed at the centre of the rotating wheel and shaped by hand.
6. How is the pot dried?
   After shaping, the pot is kept in a shaded or airy place for some time and later dried properly in the sun.
7. How is the pot made hard and strong?
   The dried pot is baked or fired in a kiln or furnace at a high temperature. This makes it hard, strong and durable.
8. Are colours or designs added to the pots?
   Yes. Some pots are decorated with natural colours, paint, patterns or simple carvings before or after firing.
9. What other objects can be made from clay?
   Clay is also used to make lamps, bowls, water pots, flower pots, toys, idols and decorative articles.
10. What difficulties do potters face?
    Potters depend on good-quality clay, water, weather conditions and fuel for the kiln. Heavy rain can delay drying, while careless firing can crack the pots.