8 must must must-have supplies in ceramics
- Pien Smits van Oyen
- 14 mei 2024
- 3 minuten om te lezen
While I'm a staunch advocate for the connection between hands and clay as an essential aspect of pottery, there's no denying that certain supplies can streamline your process and elevate your work. In this blog post, we're delving into the must-have ceramics tools, bypassing the obvious necessities like kilns and pottery wheels. Instead, we'll focus on the eight must-have supplies that every ceramic artist should consider incorporating into their studio practice.
(1). The Apron
Among the array of tools and equipment in a ceramics studio, the humble apron often stands out as a forgotten accessory. I'll admit, in my early days of pottery, I didn't always see the necessity either. Beyond merely shielding your clothes from inevitable clay splatters and stains, a good apron serves as a crucial barrier against potentially harmful clay particles and dust. These airborne particles, when inhaled, can pose risks to respiratory health over time. Also, nothing beats the feeling of taking your apron off and having a fresh set of clothes underneath it, ready to embrace the world outside the studio walls. Lastly, the apron's pockets provide convenient storage for essential tools, keeping them within easy reach as you work. A few of my favorites are:
(2). A Wheel Bat System
Investing in a wheel bat system comes with my highest recommendation—seriously, it's a game-changer! When I initially began throwing on the wheel, I didn't have one, and let me tell you, getting pieces off in good shape was a struggle. I opted for this one from Bleecker Station. It's not the cheapest, but certainly not expensive and it's absolutely worth every penny. If you're still undecided about what to prioritize for your studio, this should definitely be at the top of your list.
(3). Ceramic Ribs
Ceramic ribs are essential tools in pottery, offering versatility and precision in shaping and smoothing clay. Silicone ribs are prized for their flexibility.Their soft texture minimizes drag and leaves minimal marks on the clay, making them ideal for delicate forms and intricate details. Wooden ribs, on the other hand, offer a natural feel and are excellent for refining shapes and adding subtle curves. They provide a gentle touch while allowing for greater control over the clay's surface. Steel ribs, with their sturdy construction, are perfect for exerting pressure and creating defined edges and sharp lines. They excel in trimming and shaping larger pieces of clay. Each type of rib brings its own unique benefits to the potter's toolkit. A few of my favorites:
(4). Sponges
Need I say more. A sponge is a must-need for the entire ceramic process. A sponge is essential for smoothing surfaces, absorbing excess water, and cleaning up stray clay particles. It helps to achieve a flawless finish and ensures precise control over the moisture content of the clay during shaping and glazing processes. You can use any sponge, but if you ask me, I prefer these ones.
(5). Trimming Tools
While throwing can easily be done with your own set of hands, for trimming you really need actual tools. When you're just starting your ceramic adventure, I'd recommend to not buy the most expensive ones. This is a great and versatile set for beginners and intermediate throwers. If you want to step up your game, I'd highly recommend this and this one from Mudtools, or these ones from the Xiem.
(6). The Giffin Grip
Struggling to center your thrown form on the wheel? Whether you're contending with an unruly shape or simply seeking precision in centering, the Giffin Grip is your solution! This ingenious tool seamlessly attaches to your wheelhead, equipped with an array of adjustable arms designed to delicately secure your piece in place. No more uncentered trimming or your pieces flying of the wheel.
(7). Ceramic Brushes
It is crucial to have the right set of brushes when it comes to applying slip and glaze to your pots, whether freshly thrown or just out of the bisque. I love this set. They hold enough volume for long or thick strokes, and they come in a variety of widths to suit any project. They also work great for waxing the bottoms of pots, and are easily cleaned with soap and water.
(8). Paddles
While you may think of paddles as being more suited to the hand-builder, they are a great tool for the thrower as well. Not everything that comes off the wheel has to be perfectly round, afterall! Use it to create flatten sides to your pots, or to carefully tap the form into more complex shapes. I use this one for years now.
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