5 Common Beginner Mistakes (And How to Fix Them Without Crying)

So, you finally sat down at the wheel or rolled out your first slab—yay, welcome to the mud club! Now comes the part where everything wobbles, collapses, cracks, or just looks... weird. Don’t worry. We’ve all been there (some of us multiple times a week).

Here are 5 common beginner mistakes—and how to fix them without throwing your piece (or yourself) out the window:

Using Too Much Water

The problem: That spinning clay suddenly turns into a sad, saggy puddle.

The fix: Use water sparingly. Think of it like seasoning food—you want just enough to keep things smooth. Keep a sponge handy to dab away the extra.

Rushing the Centering

The problem: Your piece looks like it’s doing the cha-cha on the wheel.

The fix: Slow. Down. Centering takes time and practice. Apply consistent pressure, keep your elbows braced, and remember: it’s okay to spend most of your session just getting centered.

Not Compressing the Bottom

The problem: Cracks magically appear at the base of your pot after drying.

The fix: Use a rib or finger to compress the base as you throw. Do it a few times just to be safe—your future self will thank you.

Overworking the Clay

The problem: You keep fiddling and re-shaping, and the clay gives up on life.

The fix: Know when to stop. It doesn’t have to be perfect—that’s the charm! Step back and say, “I made this weird little bowl, and that’s beautiful.”

Skipping the Drying Process

The problem: Your piece warps or cracks in the kiln.

The fix: Let it dry slowly. Cover it lightly with plastic and let it dry evenly—especially the base. Don’t rush this step!

Final Tip

Laugh. A lot. Your pieces will improve—but honestly, the real fun is in the mess.