In a bowl, combine flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
In a large bowl, beat the 1 cup sugar, the shortening, molasses, and egg with an electric mixer until fluffy.
Add flour mixture and beat until combined. If necessary, stir in last portion of flour by hand.
Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Roll balls in additional sugar. Place 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets.
Bake in a 350 degree F oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until edges are dry. Cool several minutes on cookie sheet before removing to wire rack. Cool. Makes 36 cookies.