I used to only use my hand to shape bowls, but I noticed there was a limitation on how far out I could shape them as I began to make larger bowls. Throwing a larger piece of clay means I've worked the clay more than when working with a smaller piece of clay. So, when I'm ready to shape the bowl, there is already more water in the clay and it tended to collapse when I tried to shape using my hands since I needed to keep the clay lubricated with water.
Using a ribbing tool to shape a bowl allows you to simultaneously draw out water which strengthens the clay at the same time.
Firing: Reduction high fire
Clay: Black mountain
Made with glazes at Echo Ceramics
