Slabmat- Standard 22 X 50

SLABMAT- STANDARD 22 x 50Standard SlabMat is approximately 22×50 It is suitable for use in all standard slabrollers in lieu of canvas. You can sandwich your clay slab between two SlabMats or you can fold a single mat and feed the fold through the rollers just as you would canvas! The difference? A smooth clay slab!SlabMatis thesmoooooth alternative to canvasfor rolling out slabs of clay.SlabMatis a proprietary non-woven material used instead of canvas on all slab rollers. Smaller mats are avilable for hand building clay slabs.1.What isSlabMat?SlabMatis a proprietary non-woven fabric that provides a smooth surface for clay work. Unlike canvas, SlabMat has no weave for clay dust to sift through, and therefore is cleaner for studio use.2.How many pieces ofSlabMatdo I need?For long slabs (>23) on a slab roller, use two full-length sheets of SlabMat with the clay sandwiched in between.SlabMatcan also be used in combination with canvas to get one side textured and one smooth. Place the canvas on the bottom for it to absorb the most water.For shorter slabs (<23") on a slab roller, use one piece of full sizeSlabMatfolded in half with the clay sandwiched in between the folded mat. Note: If you use this technique for rolling, the crease in the mat is permanent.For hand building, or slabs rolled out with a rolling pin, you may use one piece ofSlabMat. If your table is slick, use a piece of rubber shelf liner under the SlabMat to keep it from sliding.HandBuildingtm mats are pre-cut to convenient sizes.3.Can I cut a piece ofSlabMatto a smaller size?Yes. Use an Exacto or utility knife and a straight edge to cut the mat to the appropriate size.4.Can I cut clay sitting onSlabMat?Yes. Cutting clay sitting onSlabMatwith an Exacto knife or needle tool requires attention to the sharpness of the tool and the pressure applied when making a cut. Perform a cut test on aSlabMatsample to see how hard you can press before you damage the surface. A stainless steel fettling knife is recommended.5.Should I buy separate pieces of SlabMat for each type or color of clay?Yes. Avoid clay body contamination.6.What if my clay sticks toSlabMat?Generally, if you can roll out your clay on canvas, you should be able to useSlabMatwithout sticking. Cornstarch can be used as a release if lightly dusted onto the mat. It will burn out in the firing.Tips: When clay is rolled, the bottom mat absorbs more moisture. To prevent you clay from sticking on the bottom mat:Step 1. Run a thick slab through the slab roller using canvas on the bottom to absorb moisture andSlabMaton the top.Step 2. Remove the canvas, and replace it with the 2nd sheet ofSlabMat. Roll the mat to the desired thickness.If you still have a problem, you may want to dry the clay somewhat by wedging the clay on plaster or concrete. You can also squeeze the clay into thick coils exposing more surface area to air to dry it.7.How many slabs can I roll before theSlabMatis too wet?If you remove your slabs immediately, you should be able to roll a few slabs before theSlabMatis too wet. DO NOT LEAVE YOUR CLAY ON THE MAT AFTER ROLLING. TRANSFER TO A FRESH MAT. Prolonged wetness may cause theSlabMatto have a waviness that cannot be corrected.Tip: If you are slow drying flat slabs, place the slabs between pieces of drywall, also known as gypsum or sheet rock. This product is found at home centers, is easily cut with a utility knife, and is inexpensive. You should cover the drywall edges with duct tape to avoid contamination of clay with the gypsum.8.How should I store mySlabMats?StoreSlabMatsflat when possible. If you must store yourSlabMatsrolled, roll the mats loosely. If the mat is too curled from shipment, gently reverse roll the mat before use. To extend the life of yourSlabMatavoid excessive heat and direct sunlight.