Perforating

Bring light and air to clay using the perforating technique. Discover how openings in clay can add texture and poetry. Cutting, piercing or punching the clay creates a play of light and shadow, allowing your work to breathe and come alive.

In ceramics, perforating involves creating holes, patterns or openings in clay. Using needles, punches or knives, shapes can be cut or pricked out of the clay wall. The shapes can be regular or organic, tight or playful.

PerforatioThese perforations add visual lightness and play with light and shadow. This produces an atmospheric effect, especially in candle holders, lamps or sculptures. This technique requires precision: the clay must be firm yet still malleable, typically in the leather-hard stage.

Perforating is a meditative act that can transform simplicity into elegance. Each hole allows the clay to breathe.

Check out all of the online courses we offer and dive into the world of clay!

Discover more blog posts here

Een taart schaal van keramiek met daarop een cake versiert met frosting en oranje bloemblaadjes
Shapes
Nele

The cake stand

A cake stand? An ideal clay creation to brighten up your next party.

Two hands are pulling up the clay at the potter's wheel
Articles
Nele

Seven common mistakes in ceramics

Pottery is no easy craft. From choosing the right type of clay to how you position your hands while throwing, there are many elements that you need to pay attention

Download the free beginner's guide

Start out with ceramics

A handy 27-page PDF with everything you need to know to get started with everything clay.

Enter your details below and you’ll get the guide in your mailbox! You sign up for our bi-weekly newsletter full of ceramic goodies as well.