How to Use a Slab Roller (Without Ruining Your Clay)

Slab rollers are amazing. They save time, your wrists, and give you lovely even sheets of clay for handbuilding, tiles, platters — you name it. But, like most studio gear, there’s a technique to getting it right.

Here’s how to roll slabs that are smooth, even, and ready for greatness:

1. Prepare Your Clay

• Wedge your clay well to remove air pockets.

• Flatten it slightly with your hands first — it’ll feed through more easily.

2. Set the Thickness

• Adjust the roller evenly on both sides — uneven rollers = wobbly slabs.

• Always check the canvas is clean and aligned before rolling.

3. Roll the Slab

• Sandwich your clay between two canvas sheets.

• Roll slowly — forcing it through too fast can stretch or crack it.

• Roll once in each direction to keep the slab consistent and avoid curling.

4. Lift Carefully

• Peel the clay gently off the canvas.

• Transfer your slab with a board or slab mat — no bending or flopping.

5. Clean Up After Use

• Brush down the roller and canvas — even small clay bits can harden and cause lumps.

• Neat tools = neat work = happy potters.

Bonus Tip: Add Texture

Want more drama in your slabs? Try pressing in leaves, lace, or carved stamps before running the clay through. It’s like printing — but in 3D.