I need some ceramics tips...?

Question

A few weeks ago I got a potters wheel as an early birthday present. I took ceramics for two years in high school, but after several years I feel like I forgot everything. Everything I throw ends up with several bubbles in it, no matter how much I wedge it. If it doesn't end up with bubbles in it, then it gets twisted, and then eventually collapses. I have several DVDs and books but they only make me even more discouraged because they make it seem so easy. They explain many different techniques but they don't explain how to prevent bubbles, twisting or "lopsidedness." I even have trouble centering the clay which makes me feel hopeless.

Part of me wants to take a class again but I'm really embarrassed because when I try several times and fail I get really upset and usually start crying. I have no patience, and I guess that's most of the problem. I don't know whether to take a pottery class or an anger management class.

Answer 1

I think you should take a refresher course.  It would help you get started again and help you manage your anger too.

Answer 2

If your using commercial clay then there is really no need to wedge the clay. As far as lopsidedness ,means your clay is not centered and you need to slow down the speed of your wheel. I Personally would recommend the class, there's nothing like having a teacher show you what your doing wrong and to help you with a solution. Plus then you will see that your not the only one having problems and not be so hard on yourself . I was the same way you are when I started ;))) We had to make a 6 inch cylinder with 1 pound of clay and Nothing else til we could do that ;(  Some people did it in a few classes and others Weeks!!! So find a pottery class and Remember to Enjoy the class and Not to make yourself  go Crazy !!! It will get better . Good Luck ;)))