How Do You Dry Pottery And Clay Objects?
Because drywall is made with plaster, it can be very useful when working with slabs and tiles. Just like plaster, drywall will absorb moisture from the clay. Be sure to get regular drywall, not the types that have moisture barriers to reduce mold. Roll slabs or tiles on sheets of newspaper. Once rolled, transfer the slab or tiles to the first piece of drywall. Cover with another sheet of newspaper, then place the second piece of drywall on top. Repeat as needed. The drywall will absorb moisture from the slabs and tiles from both sides, allowing the clay to dry evenly and slowly. Allow the slabs or tiles to remain sandwiched in the pieces of drywall until stiff leather-hard or bone dry. Important! Any speck of plaster dust or particles that gets into your clay can cause it to explode in the kiln. Be sure to have sealed any cut or open edges of the pieces of drywall. I use three strips of duct tape per edge; one centered down the edge and one overlapping the first strip of tape on either