What is a pinch pot?

A pinch pot is a hand-built pottery that is formed by using the thumb and fingers to pinch and shape the clay, typically in the palm of the hand. This technique allows for a personal touch and creative expression in each piece, as the artisan controls the thickness and shape with their fingers. Pinch pots are often one of the first methods taught to beginners in pottery because they are simple, accessible, and do not require specialized tools or a pottery wheel.

The other options describe different pottery methods. Pouring pottery refers to techniques that involve liquid clay being poured into molds, which is distinct from the hands-on, tactile nature of creating a pinch pot. Decorative pieces created on a wheel involve throwing clay on a pottery wheel and shaping it evenly, which is an entirely different skill set compared to pinch pot construction. Lastly, while high-temperature firing is relevant to many forms of ceramics, pinch pots do not inherently require this firing method and can be made with low-fire clays. Thus, the method of creating a pinch pot directly connects to the hand-built aspect emphasized in the correct answer.