How To Make Football Party Plates

1. Prepare the Clay Slab

Start by rolling out a clay slab that’s large enough to cover your Form, with a little extra around the edges.

2. Press the Form Into the Clay

Press your Form lightly into the clay to make an impression. This will help you get a clear idea of where you want to place your texture.

3. Add Texture with a Ruler

Now, use a ruler to gently press lines into the clay, creating the signature football threads and stripes. You don’t need to press too hard, just enough to create visible texture.

4. Position the Form in the Center

Place the Form in the center of your slab. To prevent it from shifting, put a studio board on top of it, then flip the whole thing over.

5. Press the Clay onto the Form

Gently push the clay up toward the Form. Gradually add more pressure as you work, making sure the clay takes on the shape of the Form without getting too thin.

6. Compress the Clay with a Rib

Take a Mudtools rib and use it to press and smooth the clay into the Form.

7. Mark the Rim

Use a Sue Tool to draw a line around the rim of the platter where you plan to cut. This is your guide for shaping the edge.

8. Cut Out the Foot

Using a Foot Maker Tool, cut out a strip of clay from the leftover slab to create the foot of the platter. This gives the platter a lifted look and provides support.

9. Attach the Foot

Press the foot onto the bottom of the platter. Use a modeling tool to blend the edges of the foot into the platter, smoothing the connection so it looks seamless.