How to Reclaim Clay

Reclaiming clay is an essential process for artists and potters looking to make the most of their materials while promoting sustainability.

Over time, clay can become dry and unusable, leaving many artists concerned about waste. This guide will explore how to reclaim clay, transforming it back into a workable state. By understanding the techniques involved, you can not only extend the life of your clay but also enhance your creative projects without the need for excessive new materials.

Understanding Clay Reclamation

Clay reclamation is the process of reviving dried or leftover clay by restoring its moisture and plasticity.

This practice is not only economically beneficial for artists and potters but also environmentally friendly, as it reduces waste and promotes the efficient use of resources. The fundamental principle behind clay reclamation involves rehydrating the clay, allowing it to regain its original texture and workability.

Artists should be aware of the different methods available for reclamation, which can vary based on the type of clay used and the specific needs of the project. By mastering these techniques, potters can ensure a continuous workflow, minimize material costs, and contribute to sustainable practices in their craft.

10 Methods How to Reclaim Clay

1. Slaking Down

Slaking down is a traditional and straightforward method for reclaiming clay. Begin by collecting your dry clay scraps and breaking them into smaller pieces. Place these pieces in a large container and cover them with water. Allow the clay to soak overnight or until it has completely disintegrated into a thick slurry.

Stir the mixture to ensure all the clay is fully hydrated. Once the clay has reached a smooth consistency, pour off any excess water. Spread the slurry onto a plaster bat or an absorbent surface, such as an old towel or a sheet of canvas. As the water is absorbed, the clay will begin to firm up. Once it reaches a workable consistency, knead the clay to remove any air bubbles and ensure an even texture.

2. Hand Wedging

Hand wedging is a physical method that involves manually compressing and kneading the clay to remove air bubbles and ensure uniform consistency. To begin, collect your clay scraps and add a small amount of water if they are too dry.

Place the clay on a clean, hard surface, preferably a wedging board or a plaster bat, which helps to absorb excess moisture. Using the palms of your hands, press down on the clay and fold it over itself repeatedly. Rotate the clay as you work to ensure all parts are evenly mixed. This process, known as spiral wedging, helps to align the clay particles and remove any trapped air.

3. Using a Clay Mixer

A clay mixer, or pug mill, is a machine designed to blend and homogenize clay. This method is particularly efficient for reclaiming large quantities of clay. Start by collecting your clay scraps and breaking them into smaller pieces if necessary.

Add the clay to the mixer along with a small amount of water to aid the mixing process. Turn on the mixer and allow it to run until the clay reaches a smooth and even consistency. Most clay mixers have a de-airing feature that removes air bubbles from the clay, producing a dense, workable material. Once the clay is thoroughly mixed, it can be extruded from the mixer and cut into manageable pieces.

4. Drying and Pulverizing

Drying and pulverizing is a method suited for reclaiming very dry or hard clay. Begin by spreading your clay scraps out in a single layer and allowing them to air dry completely. Once the clay is bone dry, break it into smaller pieces using a hammer or mallet. Place the dry pieces in a heavy-duty bag and crush them into a fine powder.

Transfer the powdered clay to a container and add water gradually, stirring continuously until you achieve a thick slurry. Pour the slurry onto a plaster bat or absorbent surface to remove excess water. Once the clay reaches a workable consistency, knead it to ensure an even texture. This method is effective for reclaiming clay that has become too hard to process through other means and allows for precise control over the clay’s moisture content.

5. Blunging

Blunging involves using a mechanical agitator or blender to create a uniform clay slurry. Start by collecting your dry or semi-dry clay scraps and breaking them into smaller pieces. Place the clay in a large container and cover it with water.

Using a mechanical agitator, such as a drill with a mixing attachment or an immersion blender, blend the clay and water until a smooth slurry forms. This process helps to break down any lumps and ensures a consistent mixture. Once the slurry is smooth, pour it onto a plaster bat or absorbent surface to remove excess moisture.

6. Slip Casting Reclaim

Slip casting reclaim is a method specifically for reclaiming clay used in slip casting processes. Start by collecting the leftover slip from your casting process and allowing it to settle in a container.

Once the slip has settled, pour off any excess water from the top. Transfer the thickened slip to a plaster bat or an absorbent surface to remove additional moisture. As the slip begins to firm up, knead it to remove any air bubbles and ensure a consistent texture. If the slip is too dry, add a small amount of water and mix thoroughly. Slip casting reclaim is an efficient way to recycle material from slip casting, ensuring that no clay is wasted in the process.

7. Use of a Dehydrator

Using a dehydrator is a modern and efficient method for reclaiming clay, especially in studios with limited space. Begin by collecting your wet or semi-wet clay scraps and placing them on the trays of a food dehydrator. Set the dehydrator to a low temperature and allow it to run until the clay reaches a leather-hard consistency.

Once the clay is partially dried, transfer it to a wedging board or a plaster bat to absorb any remaining moisture. Knead the clay to ensure a uniform texture and remove any air bubbles. Using a dehydrator speeds up the drying process and is particularly useful for reclaiming small batches of clay quickly.

8. Mixing Dry and Wet Clay

Mixing dry and wet clay is a versatile method that allows for the reclamation of clay with varying moisture levels. Start by collecting your dry clay scraps and wet clay trimmings. Combine the two types of clay in a large container, adding water if necessary to achieve a thick slurry. Mix the clay thoroughly using a mechanical agitator or by hand until a smooth consistency is reached.

Pour the slurry onto a plaster bat or absorbent surface to remove excess water. Once the clay reaches a workable consistency, knead it to ensure an even texture. This method allows you to balance the moisture content of different clay scraps, making it suitable for reclaiming mixed batches of clay.

9. Reclaiming with Vinegar

Vinegar can be used to aid in the reclaiming process by breaking down clay particles and improving plasticity. Begin by collecting your dry clay scraps and breaking them into smaller pieces. Place the clay in a large container and cover it with water, adding a small amount of vinegar (about one tablespoon per gallon of water).

Allow the clay to soak for several hours or overnight. The vinegar will help to dissolve the clay and create a smooth slurry. Pour off any excess water and transfer the slurry to a plaster bat or absorbent surface. Once the clay firms up, knead it to ensure an even texture. Reclaiming with vinegar is particularly useful for hard or stubborn clay and can enhance the workability of the reclaimed material.

10. Using Reclaim Buckets

Using reclaim buckets is a simple and effective method for continuously reclaiming clay in a busy studio. Start by designating a large bucket for collecting clay scraps, trimmings, and slop. Add water to the bucket periodically to keep the clay moist and prevent it from drying out. When the bucket is full, stir the mixture to create a thick slurry. Allow the slurry to settle and pour off any excess water.

Transfer the thickened clay to a plaster bat or absorbent surface to remove additional moisture. Once the clay reaches a workable consistency, knead it to ensure a uniform texture. Using reclaim buckets allows for the ongoing recycling of clay and is ideal for studios with a high volume of clay waste.

Conclusion

Reclaiming clay is an essential practice for ceramic artists, offering both economic and environmental benefits. By mastering these ten methods, you can ensure that your clay remains usable and your studio remains sustainable.

Whether you are working with small amounts of clay or managing large volumes, these techniques provide a comprehensive guide to reclaiming and revitalizing your material. From traditional methods like slaking down and hand wedging to modern approaches like using a clay mixer or dehydrator, each method offers unique advantages for different types of clay and studio environments.