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The first attempt at wheel throwing began with the use of a turning a flat surface like the bottom of a pot. It is projected that a potter would turn this table as they were coiling. The clay turntable evolved to wood and stone for durability. Eventually, the turntable was placed on a rock for a quicker turning. One of the earliest turntable devices was found around 3500 B.C. in Europe. A potter would sit in front of the turntable and with one hand manipulate the clay while turning the table with the other. As turntables developed among different cultures and over time, the potter wheel expanded to a wheel that was kicked by the potter to start the spinning while forming the clay with both hands. In some parts of the world today, certain potters still use the traditional turntable or kick-wheel instead of our powered wheels.

Before a potter began throwing their pot, they would knead the clay to release air or water bubbles that might have gotten trap in the clay vein. We still do this process today, even though most ceramic clay manufacturers de-air their pugged clay. De-Aired clay allows the potter to start throwing immediately instead of preparing the clay. Working with wheel involves the use of your hand extensively. The movements and positions of your fingers will allow you to center, open, raise wall and shape your piece as it is rotating on the wheel. Eventually, the techniques of throwing will become instinctual.

There are four basic steps to throwing centering, coning up, opening, and lifting the walls. It is best to start with about 1 pound of clay. Knead the clay on a smooth surface to make sure all air bubbles have been released. Damp your wheel head with a small hydra sponge. If you apply too much water, the clay will slide right off the wheel head. Keep a small bucket with water and the sponge in it near by for further lubrication during the throwing process.

To begin centering, throw the clay ball directly down on the center of the wheel head. Sit close to your wheel head with your elbows tucked into the side of your body. With your right hand push down while the left hand push against the right hand moving towards the center of the clay as the potters wheel rotates at medium speed. If you are left handed, you can reverse hand instructions. While pushing downward the ball will become compact. As you continue to apply pressure, open your right hand to control the cone better. The left hand remains in the same position keeping the balance of center,

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