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Today’s Library Lady’s tips focus on another maker space ideas. I’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic.
Tips from Library Lady
Pottery Maker Space
Maker Space Spotlight: Coil Pottery for All Ages
Looking for a creative and calming activity to introduce in your library’s maker space? Try coil pottery—a timeless craft that engages students of all ages and sparks hands-on creativity. From squishing soft clay to shaping it into a one-of-a-kind pot, this activity blends artistic expression with tactile learning.
Why It Works in the Library
Younger students can start with homemade or store-bought playdough for freeform sculpting, while older students can explore traditional coil pottery techniques. It’s a project that scales easily in complexity, making it perfect for multi-age settings or as a recurring activity with progressive skill-building. Plus, it requires minimal equipment and no pottery wheel!
Supplies You’ll Need:
- Air-dry clay (or oven-bake clay) – available at most craft stores
- Flat, cleanable surface – cover tables with butcher paper or mats
- Water and simple clay tools (or butter knives and popsicle sticks)
- Optional: Acrylic paint, paintbrushes, and sealant for decorating
Step-by-Step: How to Make a Coil Pot
- Warm Up the Clay
Encourage students to knead the clay for a few minutes to make it soft and pliable. Caution them to fold gently to avoid creating air bubbles, which can weaken the structure. - Roll Out a Coil
Have students roll a long, even “rope” of clay. This coil determines the thickness of the pot’s walls, so they can adjust based on their pot’s intended use. - Create the Base
Starting at one end of the rope, coil it flat into a spiral shape to form the base. If students want to build a taller pot, make sure the base is wide enough to support it. - Build Up the Walls
Continue coiling upward from the base. Each layer of coil adds height. Press coils gently together for stability. - Smooth or Leave Textured
Students can leave the pot with visible coils for a rustic look or smooth the sides using fingers dipped in water for a sleeker finish. Focus on the outside appearance, as it will be most visible. - Dry and Decorate
Let the pot air dry completely (or bake if using oven-dry clay). Once dry, students can paint or seal their creations—or leave them raw for a natural look.
Maker Space Extension Ideas:
- Teach how to add handles by creating thicker coils at the sides and carefully shaping them.
- Host a pottery showcase in the library where students display and label their pieces.
- Combine the project with a literature tie-in, such as reading about ancient pottery or artists who worked with clay. See some suggestions here.
Pottery in the library isn’t just about art—it’s about building confidence, fine motor skills, and creative expression. With just a few supplies, your students can take part in a rewarding maker space project that they’ll be proud to bring home or display on your shelves.
Book List – Pottery and Clay
Want more Maker Space ideas? Check out these posts.
| Need to do some fundraising for your library? Here are some posts on my blog which describe my fundraising camps. |
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See you next week.
Jane (Library Lady)
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