HEY CYNTHIA – I do this project all the time with my kids during Summer Camp. It’s surprisingly easy. First I have them throw a slab – no rolling pins allowed! Then they add the texture to the slabs while they set-up on the canvas table. I let them sit for a few minutes so they’ll hold their shape better. Then I score & slip the sides, and press them together. At this point, it’s okay of the two slabs are sitting flat on top of each other. Once the side seams are well-attached, the carefully stand it up and slide my hand down in between the two slabs to “open” it up. Once the envelope/pocket is opened, it should stand pretty well by itself. There is nothing inside to hold the shape – although you could. Then I add the slab bottom, then the rolled coil rim. I try to clean up my seams in the interior, as well as the exterior. If you have time, I typically keep them covered in plastic overnight so the moisture level can balance out a bit. Although we have “quick-dried” them with the kids.

Good luck. The kids will love the project. They can “express themselves” with their textures & pattern. And they’ll be surprised how quickly they can make a clay piece of a good size. So much quicker, cleaner & easier than pinch pots or coils!!!