Earthenware Clay Bird Method: Making a Bird with Earthenware Clay Step One Use Wire Cutting tool to cut a piece of clay. Step Two Flatten the clay with your hand first and place between two pieces of wood. The height of the wood will determine the thickness of the slab. Roll from end to end and turn over and repeat. Step Three Use a pin tool to lightly draw into the clay. Mistakes can be smoothed over. Step Four Use a clay knife to cut out a shape. Step Five Textures can be created by pushing objects into the clay. Step Six To adhere pieces of clay together, score both joining sides. Step Seven Apply slip to both sides and gently press both pieces together. Run a modelling tool along the joining seam. Step Eight Add any final details and your piece is complete!