Attach a pulled handle to a mug

The join is everything. A beautiful handle that cracks off in the kiln is useless.

Steps

1. Mark where the handle attaches (top and bottom) with a slight indent
2. Score both attachment areas with deep crosshatches
3. Apply thick slip to both scored areas
4. Press the handle firmly into place
5. Blend the join with your finger or a tool, with no gaps visible

Quality check

• The join feels completely secure
• No visible gaps between handle and mug body
• The blended area transitions smoothly
• The handle position feels natural when you grip the mug

The overnight test

Let it dry for 24 hours. If the join cracks, you didn't score deep enough or your slip was too thin. Try again with more aggressive scoring.