The water would flow in little streams and in harmony with no spattering or straying off in unwanted directions. ​

Teapots and their spouts are like those little water systems. When there are obstacles in a spout, like unsmooth spout interiors or unnecessary curves, the liquid will have difficulty to organize itself to flow from the spout. The only time when these curves can work, is when the tapered end of the spout is long enough to orientate the liquid to form a strong ​stream before it reaches the rim of the spout.  A too short spout is prone to make tea come out swirling and spattering. ​

​Different clay bodies will act differently to the forming of the spout rim. Porcelain is in my opinion the best clay medium to use in the making of teapots. Not only can the potter really create a very light, but strong teapot, but because porcelain clay is so fine, a defined spout rim is possible, without creating a weak rim. To prevent a dripping spout, create a cutting line, to cut the droplet, but not too sharp that the rim may chip off during the first time it is bumped when washed. A little “pouting” spout will also help to get that last drop to fall graciously into the teacup.

​A well-fitting glaze, somewhat waxy or satin smooth, would replace the need to smear butter underneath the spout like we so often get advised to do when a streak of liquid keep running down the spout. ​

​During the online workshop classes I teach students from around the world how to create functional teapots. A lightweight teapot body, well fitted lid, well-formed teapot spout and comfortable handles will make it a pleasure to brew tea in.
​Teapots and their popularity are on the rise, not only as collectors’ teapots, but also for domestic use, because there are few things as soothing as a nice warm cup of tea.

See more about Antoinette's online teapot workshops:
Pinching teapots for beginners 
Wheel-thrown teapots