Pinch Pots
A pinch pot is a very simple method of shaping clay. In order to make one, you will need a piece of clay. A good amount to start with is about a baseball sized piece. Shape this into a smooth ball. Press your thumb into the ball and begin to shape your design by pressing the clay between your finger and thumb. It is important to keep your clay from drying out too much, as it will crack. If this happens, just add some water and smooth it out. However, if you add too much water your clay will become wobbly. This is considered by many to be the most basic form of clay working and a good place to begin learning.