How to Make an Olla

 

1.  Get someone to tell you where the clay deposit is located.

2.  Get permission from the elders and spirits. Dig the clay; tote it home.

3.  Dry the clay.

4.  Grind it to a silky, fine powder, like baby powder.

5.  Add temper as necessary to prevent shrinkage when drying.

6.  Wet the powder and let it sit for a week or so.

7.  Knead it like bread dough until there are no wet nor dry spots nor any air bubbles.

8.  Make a slab and mold it on a form shaped like an olla bottom.

9.  Remove the olla start from the form when firm but not dry.

10.  Roll coils and add them to the rim of the olla start.

11.  Paddle the walls, while holding a stone against the inside to compact the clay.

12.  Add coils and paddle until the desired size and shape.

13.  When almost dry burnish (rub) with a smooth stone until clay is as smooth as glass.  (optional)

14.  Dry until bone dry.

15.  Fire.

16 Rub pot, still hot from fire, with dried pine sap to make it airtight and waterproof.  (optional)