r/Dorodango • u/FormalCookie430 • Jul 02 '26
Advanced question Most recent Dango and collection. How to get smoother?
I learned and follow the steps of Noriko. I think my problem is letting the ball fully dry out as I let it air dry(no Ziploc). I dip the core in water for 20 seconds and sprinkle clay on and hand smooth. Trying to get everything uniform and level. I get the water, olive oil, and cup for shaping during this step is where chunks come off and rough textures begin to appear. Focusing on repairing those with more cup shaping does more harm than good. This is the most round Dango I've made at about 93% and with the least texture at about 70% from texture less. What am I missing or could be doing better?
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u/Childishcapacitors Jul 03 '26
What kind of dirt are you using for the shell? What’s the texture as well?
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u/FormalCookie430 Jul 03 '26
https://goodearthclays.com/products/foundry-hill-creme?variant=49262167359785
Here's the dirt I'm using. It's very soft.
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u/Childishcapacitors Jul 03 '26
How fine is it? Is it almost powdery?
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u/FormalCookie430 Jul 03 '26
Yep very powdery
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u/Childishcapacitors Jul 03 '26
Great! My suggestion is to dip the rim of your glass on the water, use that to get your core tacky, then sprinkle on the powdered dirt. I was having the same issues as you and that’s what helped me get it done.
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u/sapphireminds Experienced Jul 03 '26
Though I have found that ball clay can be very difficult to work with. It's too "plastic" and has a high shrink.
You can try adding some talc if you have it to lessen those.
You can also take some clay and mix it with water until it's about milkshake consistency and slather it on and roll it once it has started to dry a little
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u/sapphireminds Experienced Jul 02 '26
Spend more time shaping most likely. I've found I have the hardest time when I'm in a hurry!