The Process of Making Clay
 
   

Native Americans used clay to make pottery. First they had to shape it into anything they wanted. Then they set it out to harden.


Clays can be found by water. Temper is a mixture that can be smashed shell, dirt, or crushed pottery bits. Wedge clay is used to remove air so pottery won't break or crack. Spiral is a type of wedging clay that helps to mix the clay. It is important to add temper to the clay so that when it is fired the clay will not crack or break.


Finally they decide how to decorate their designs. When they decide how to decorate them they do decorate them.

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