Abstract: A machine suitable for use in removing seams from cup handles comprises means in the form of a turntable for carrying a plurality of sponges, viz. four, step-by-step successively through a series of operating stations at two of which smoothing operations are preformed on the handles and at two others of which the sponges are cleaned automatically to avoid such build up of clay material on them as will interfere with the satisfactory operation of the machine. Each sponge of the machine has a passage of suitably profiled cross-section through which each handle is caused to traverse first one way and then the other in the operation of the machine.