When you’re using the coil method to make a clay slab, dry clay is a bummer. Dry clay is hard to shape, working with it wears your fingers out! And it’s always cracking and breaking apart. MOIST clay, on the other hand is a buttery pleasure to work with and will oblige you by forming into almost any shape you desire, within reason. So, how do you know if it’s too dry? If you push into or bend clay and lots of tiny cracks appear, you need to hydrate your clay with a little sprinkle of water and some kneading. (Sophomores know what I mean) On the other hand if you press your finger into the clay and it gives easily without sticking to your skin, moist it is. Use it or lose it.