Set up and start the wheel

Before you touch clay, get comfortable with the machine.

The drill

1. Adjust your stool so your elbows can brace against your inner thighs when seated
2. Fill your water bucket and place it within easy reach
3. Place a bat on the wheel head
4. Run the wheel at low, medium, and high speed: just get a feel for the pedal

Body check

• Feet flat on the floor (not just toes)
• Back relatively straight, leaning forward from the hips
• Shoulders relaxed, not hunched up by your ears

Spend 5 minutes just sitting and pedaling. This is not wasted time: your body needs to memorize this position.