Cleaning clay involves removing impurities through a process of mixing with water, filtering, and then removing excess water. Here's a breakdown:
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Slurry Creation: Mix the clay with water in a large container. The goal is to create a thin, dispersed slurry, making it easier to separate impurities.
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Filtering: Pour the clay slurry through sieves or cloths (cheesecloth works well). The sieves/cloths will trap larger particles of unwanted material. Repeat with finer sieves if needed for more thorough cleaning.
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Water Removal: After filtering, the clay is cleaner but contains too much water. Methods to remove water include:
- Settling: Allowing the clay to settle, then decanting the clear water off the top.
- Plaster Slab: Pouring the slurry onto a plaster slab, which absorbs water from the clay.
- Filter Press: (For larger quantities) A more industrial method using pressure to force water through filters, leaving the clay behind.
