Paddle a round pot into a square form

The wheel makes round things. But you can make the wheel-thrown piece into any shape, if you alter it at the right moment.

Steps

1. Throw a cylinder or bowl from about 400 g
2. While still soft (or early leather hard), remove from the wheel
3. Use a flat paddle to press four flat sides into the round form
4. Rotate 90° between each press

What you're creating

A square (or rectangular) cross-section from a round starting point. The form should look intentional, not collapsed.

Tips

• Work on a soft surface (foam or cloth) so the pot doesn't stick to the table
• Press evenly; don't squash one side more than others
• The edges where flat meets flat should be crisp, not mushy

Keep walls even

Paddling thins the walls at the flat points. Start with slightly thicker walls if you plan to alter aggressively.