The making of a tree platter

I start with about 20 pounds of clay and run it through my slab roller until I form a large slab.

I then lay my plaster form on top of the slab of clay and cut around the form. I flip it over and...

...place it on my kick wheel so that I can work the clay into the shape of the form and add the spiral in the center.

Next, I set the platter on my work surface and lightly mark off the pattern where I...

...stamp the trees using a plaster wheel. Great care is taken in the placement of the trees...

...so that the overall design takes shape and I don't smear previous stamping.

Finally, I impress a tiny tree pattern into the rim of the platter using a smaller stamp.