Art And Craft — Indigenous Kenyan Crafts

Subtopic: Pottery — Slab Technique

The slab technique is a way of making pots by rolling clay flat into sheets (slabs) and joining the pieces together. People in many parts of Kenya have used simple pottery for storing water, cooking, and everyday life. The slab method is good for making boxes, plates, bowls and simple water jugs.

Materials (easy to find)

• Clay (from a river bank, pond, or bought from an art shop)
• Water (for mixing and smoothing)
• Sand or grog (small broken clay pieces) to add to soft clay so it does not crack)
• Plastic sheet or baking paper (to roll on)
• Wooden board or table (work surface)
• Rolling pin or empty bottle (to roll the slab)
• Knife or craft cutter, toothpick or wooden needle (for cutting and scoring)
• Sponge or damp cloth (for smoothing)
• Adult help for drying and firing (ask a teacher or parent)

Simple tools you can use at home

Use a clean empty soda bottle as a rolling pin, and a plastic comb or rope to make patterns. A straw or stick makes a hole for a handle.

Step-by-step: Make a small bowl (easy project)

1. Prepare the clay: Knead the clay until it feels even and soft. Mix in a little sand if clay is too sticky.
2. Roll a slab: Put clay on a plastic sheet and roll it flat to about 0.5–1 cm thick. Keep it even by rolling in one direction.
3. Cut a circle: Use a plate or cup to draw a circle on the slab. Cut it out with a knife.
4. Make the sides: Cut a long strip of clay (about 3–4 cm high). Score (scratch) the edges where the strip will join the circle. Also score the circle edge.
5. Slip and join: Make slip (soft clay mixed with water). Put slip on the scored parts and press the strip onto the circle to form the bowl sides. Smooth the join with your finger or a damp sponge.
6. Refine shape: Gently press the base inside so it is flat. Smooth all seams and remove extra clay.
7. Dry slowly: Cover the bowl with a plastic sheet. Let it dry until “leather hard” (still slightly soft). Then refine edges again.
8. Decorate: Carve simple patterns, press leaves, rope or a comb for texture.
9. Firing: When completely dry, an adult can fire the pot in a kiln or supervised open pit so it becomes hard. Do not try firing alone.

Simple pictures: how slab works (3 steps)

Decoration ideas (Kenyan-inspired)

• Press leaves or sisal rope into the clay for patterns.
• Carve simple geometric designs like triangles and lines.
• Paint with natural ochres or slip colors before firing (ask an adult).
• Make small handles shaped like waves or simple animals.

Safety and care

• Always work with clean hands and a clean workspace.
• Dry pieces slowly to avoid cracks — cover with plastic for a day or two.
• Firing is hot and dangerous: never fire clay without an adult who knows how.
• Use non-toxic paints and slips if you want to decorate for bowls that will touch food or water.

A short cultural note

Pottery is part of Kenya's many crafts. People made pots for carrying water, cooking and keeping food. Today, making clay objects connects children and families to these old skills. Try learning from an older family member or a local craftsperson — they may have special patterns and stories to share.