## Lesson Three: Forming Techniques and Measurement (December 16, 1981) Currently, we are producing the "Double-Line Bamboo Drum" teapot. Today, based on current production needs, I will discuss the technical procedures and precautions for making the "Double-Line Bamboo Drum": **Traditional fully handmade process:** First, beat out the bottom slab. After completing the bottom slab, immediately attach it loosely to the base, then beat out the clay coils and other components. In fully handmade production, the body, rim ring, and lid are all thrown on the same wheel, yet the final actual dimensions are not identical. This depends on mastering the clay's firmness—generally, the body is thrown immediately after beating the slab, the rim ring is thrown after letting the slab dry somewhat, and the lid is thrown when even firmer than the rim ring. This way, one wheel can achieve three perfectly calibrated results. When attaching the false bottom and body, the false bottom should be attached first, then the body. Clean the false bottom first, then clean the body. The body must be compressed with the *le* tool[1]—simply smoothing with a rib is absolutely insufficient. When attaching the rim ring, remove the clay slip from the body. After attaching the rim ring, clean it promptly—don't attach the rim ring today and clean it tomorrow. After cleaning the rim, use a specialized *le* tool to smooth away traces of the *le* tool and rim marks. Immediately after cleaning the rim, you can cut open the false bottom of the rim ring and apply slip. For small teapots, one must dare to and be skilled at working with the piece open (trade terminology, meaning the work-in-progress). First, this facilitates controlling shrinkage and achieving precise lid fit; second, it allows the spout to be attached straight and the holes to align accurately. The slip applied to the rim cannot be too thin or too little—better to have a bit extra and trim the excess when opening. The teapot's mouth opening should not slant inward; if it's too slanted, the lower section will be too thin. For the lower interior of the mouth, it's best to make a specialized cutting tool (废旧的鱼鳞刀 can be repurposed and modified). This produces a mouth that is both even and harmonious. When attaching the spout, remember to position the handle at the clay coil's seam, with the spout opposite. The "Double-Line Bamboo Drum" requires bamboo leaf appliqué—you need a specialized pointed knife for applying bamboo leaves. When rolling the handle, the clay, palm, and fingers should be moist, and the rolled component should be just right. Throughout the process, you must master the proper firmness—the work cannot be too hard, as hardness easily causes problems. Develop the habit of completing each piece in one session. Never leave work half-finished, dragging on endlessly. After completing the clay work, immediately check the piece upon release, checking for defects. --- [1] *Le* (勒): A specialized compression tool used in Yixing pottery making