It all starts with a piece of clay mined from veins of Yixing that run from the surface to 200 meters below ground.

The clay is processed into blocks of uniform color.

The artists beats the clay to the desired thickness using presses and irons.

The artists cuts out the bottom of the pot using precise measurements,

and shapes the sides of the tea pot.

The sides and top of the teapot are smoothed and shaped using a tool that looks like a putty knife.

The bottom is attached to the body of the pot.

The lid is formed from a separate piece of clay.

The artists carefully shapes the spout,

and the handle.

The artist smoothes the bottom of the pot,

and opens up the honeycomb shaped filter through which the tea will pour.

The spout and handle are attached to the body of the pot.

The whole for the lid is opened. The lid must fit tightly so this measurement is precise.

The whole for the lid is pressed using wood blocks.

The artist carves or applies drawings or designs to the outside of the pot.

Finally, the artists signs his or her name to each piece by stamping their mark (or chop) in the bottom of the pot.