Potters mix their clay by hand breaking up large pieces, moistening it with water, and then stomping on it vigorously with their feet. Then the clay is kneaded to remove as much air as possible.
The wheels were traditionally made from wood planks joined and cut into a large, 4-foot diameter circle, and set into the ground on a ball bearing. The potter sets it turning on the bearing with a long pole.
Once the maximum speed is achieved, he puts the stick aside and the momentum of the heavy concrete allows him to throw one or two very crude pots before he must set the wheel turning.
