How to Attach Handles to Mugs Without Cracks

May 4

One of the questions I get most often is about handles and how to atttach them and create a join that doesn’t crack in the kiln. It's a step that seems simple but can go wrong in a few different ways, so I made a video walking through exactly how I do it.

I use Laguna Clay Speckled Buff (I used to be a Highwater Clay Brownstone girly but RIP, #iykyk) and pull my handles from a cone of clay and let them dry a bit before attaching them. The key is letting them firm up to leather hard before attaching because too soft or too dry and you're going to have problems. In this video I attach using just water, but I also talk through when and why you might use slip instead.

What I cover:

Pulling handles and letting them set up to the right stage
How to know when your clay is leather hard and ready
Water vs. slip — what's the difference and when to use each
Tips for a clean, strong join that won't crack in the kiln

Drop any questions in the comments, I read them all!

Hi, I'm Callie, a small batch potter on Johns Island, SC. I make functional pottery by hand in my home studio and share my process here. Browse the shop or follow along on Instagram @sunnyceramicsatl. Thanks for being here!