Slice and check for air bubbles

Wedge a lump of clay (about 500 g) for 30 strokes using whichever method feels most natural.

Then grab your wire tool and slice the lump clean in half. Inspect the cross-section like a detective. You're hunting for trapped air pockets.

Success looks like

• Zero visible air bubbles in the cut face
• Uniform color and moisture throughout
• No streaks or dry patches

If you spot bubbles, re-form the lump and go again. Most beginners need 2–3 rounds before the cross-section comes up clean.