The tool comes in two sizes: medium and large. Both models include two sets of hard rubber feet, allowing you to adjust the base thickness of your piece to 8, 9, or 10 mm. The rubber feet are made of durable polyurethane — the same material used in disposable diapers — and contain no phthalates or bisphenols.
How to use the tool
Center your clay on the wheel as you normally would during the first stage of throwing. In the next stage, where the clay is opened and the base is formed, use the ball opener. You can optionally make a small indentation in the center of the clay and add a bit of water to it, before starting.
Grip the two handles of the ball opener with both hands, preferably with your thumbs resting on top of the tool for better control. Carefully position the center rod of the ball opener so it pierces the center of the clay, and gently press downward until the bottom of the two handles touches the wheel head.
Slowly pull the ball opener toward you until a suitable hollow space is created in the clay. That’s it — you now have a perfectly even base!
Tip: You can add a bit of extra water to the hollow as you go, just like you would if you were opening the clay with your fingers.
