Build and attach a thrown spout

For teapots and pitchers, a separately thrown spout gives you much more control over shape and pour direction.

Steps

1. Throw a small tapered cone on the wheel (narrow opening at top, wider at base)
2. Cut it off the wheel and let it firm to leather hard
3. Cut the base of the cone at an angle that fits the vessel body
4. Score, slip, and attach to the leather-hard vessel
5. Cut a small strainer grid into the vessel wall behind the spout (for teapots)

The pour test

Fill with water and pour. The spout should:

• Direct a clean, controlled stream
• Not dribble when you stop
• Feel intuitive to aim

The hard part

Getting the angle right. If the spout points too high, it won't pour until the vessel is tipped dramatically. Too low and it drips constantly. Aim for slightly upward from horizontal.