The Cube Mug

I wanted to create a mug that is easy to:

- store

- hold

- drink  

I got this idea because we always had a problem with mugs and could never manage to stack them up.

Slip Technique for Porcelain

1. Design the Mug

Calculate the 14% shrinkage of the clay by adding 14% to your original design. 

2. Cut the template to create the desired shape.

3. Pass the smooth clay through an extruder.

(Use low temperature white clay for modelling)

4. Fill the holes which are visible and smoothen out the surface with a file. (A slow process which requires patience)

5.Prepare the angle for the bottom of the Mug. 

(out of aluminium - soft metal)

6. Cut out the bottom of the mug. 

7. Wipe the whole shape down with a damp soft sponge.

8. Prepare the mould. Use a board to place the shape. Build a wall around the structure and block the gaps with old damp clay.

9. Prepare the Plaster by mixing 4 pints of cold water with 5 pints of plaster. Leave to set for a few minutes then mix with your hand, making sure you have no air bubbles. When the plaster becomes of a creamy consistency, pour it into the corner of the mould filling up all the space and shaking it a little, to prevent air bubbles.

10. Leave it to dry for 30-45mins and after remove the wall around it. After you take it out, file the sides and angles of the cube to get a smooth surface. 

11. Start removing clay with tools (if impatient like myself) or leave it to dry overnight (making it easier to remove) 

to be continued..