Choosing the Right Pottery Wheel

When it comes to choosing a pottery wheel, there are a few factors to consider. Here, we’ll discuss the main things to keep in mind when making your decision.

Electric vs Kick Wheel

One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether you want an electric or kick wheel. Electric wheels are powered by electricity and are generally easier to use, making them a popular choice for beginners. Kick wheels, on the other hand, are powered by foot and require more skill and practice to use effectively. They’re also typically more affordable than electric wheels.  Used electric wheels are available from time to time.  They do tend to sell fast so do not hesitate too long if you see one listed.

Ultimately, the decision between an electric or kick wheel comes down to personal preference and your level of experience. If you’re new to pottery, an electric wheel may be the way to go. The consistent speed and ease of use of an electric wheel make it the user friendly go to for a beginner. Some basic wheels for beginners that will help with learning to center and very small pieces can be found on Amazon for under $200.  Do they compare with the heavier duty wheels for $1,200 or more.  Of course not, however, it is a great investment to give it a try.

Wheel Size and Capacity

The size and capacity of the wheel you choose will depend on the size and type of pottery you plan to create. If you’re interested in making small bowls or cups, a smaller wheel may be sufficient. However, if you want to create larger pieces like vases or urns, you’ll need a larger wheel with a higher weight capacity.

It’s also important to consider the size of your workspace when choosing a wheel. If you have limited space, a smaller wheel may be a better fit. However, if you have a dedicated pottery studio, a larger wheel may be more practical.

When choosing a pottery wheel, it’s important to consider your personal preferences and needs. By taking the time to research and compare different options, you can find the perfect wheel for your beginner pottery journey.

Basic Techniques for Beginners

Centering the Clay

Before we start throwing a pot, we need to center the clay. This is the most important step, and it takes some practice to get it right. Here are the basic steps:

• Start by wedging your clay to remove air bubbles and create a uniform consistency.
• Place the clay on the wheel head and press it down with your hands, making sure it’s centered under the wheel head.
• Turn the wheel on and wet your hands and the clay with water. Use your hands to press the clay down and create a cone shape.
• Slowly raise the cone shape while pressing inwards with your hands to create a cylinder shape. Keep the clay wet and centered at all times.
• Once you have a cylinder shape, use your thumbs to create a deep hole in the center of the clay.
• Use your fingers to gently pull the clay up and shape it into a cone again. Repeat this process until the clay is perfectly centered.

Throwing a Basic Cylinder

Now that we have centered the clay, we can start throwing a basic cylinder. Here are the basic steps:

• Wet your hands and the clay with water.
• Use your hands to shape the clay into a cone again.
• Use your thumbs to create a deep hole in the center of the clay.
• Use your fingers to gently pull the clay up and shape it into a cylinder. Keep the clay wet and centered at all times.
• Use a rib tool to smooth out the sides of the cylinder and create a uniform shape.
• Use a wire tool to cut the cylinder off the wheel head.

Remember, practice makes perfect! Don’t get discouraged if your first attempts don’t turn out as expected. Keep practicing and experimenting with different techniques until you find what works best for you.

Decorating Your Pottery

Now that we’ve finished throwing our pottery on the wheel, it’s time to decorate it! Decorating is where you can really let your creativity shine and make your pottery unique. Here are some techniques we can use to decorate our pottery:

Trimming and Shaping

Trimming and shaping are techniques used to refine the shape of our pottery. We can use a trimming tool to remove excess clay from the bottom of our pot, making it more stable and easier to use. We can also use a rib tool to shape the sides of our pot, giving it a more refined look.

Adding Texture

Adding texture is a great way to make our pottery more interesting and unique. We can use tools like stamps, combs, and brushes to create different textures on our pottery. We can also use slip, which is a liquid clay, to create raised designs on our pottery.

Design

Design is where we can really let our creativity shine. We can use a combination of trimming, shaping, and texture techniques to create unique designs on our pottery. We can also use different colors of glaze to make our pottery even more colorful and interesting.

Remember, decorating your pottery is all about having fun and being creative. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques and designs. The more you practice, the better you’ll get!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While pottery wheel throwing can be a fun and relaxing experience, it’s not uncommon to run into some issues along the way. Here are some common problems you might encounter and how to troubleshoot them:

Wobbling or Off-Center Clay

If your clay is wobbling or off-center, it’s likely that your wheel isn’t level. Try adjusting the legs of your wheel to make sure it’s sitting evenly on the ground. Another possible cause is uneven pressure on the clay. Make sure you’re applying equal pressure with both hands and that your hands are positioned at the same height on the clay. If the problem persists, try slowing down your wheel speed and focusing on centering the clay before increasing the speed again.

Cracking or Collapsing Pots

If your pots are cracking or collapsing, it’s possible that the clay is too dry or too wet. Check the consistency of your clay and adjust the amount of water you’re using accordingly. It’s also important to make sure you’re compressing the clay evenly and thoroughly to prevent air pockets from forming. Another possible cause is uneven thickness in your pot walls. Make sure you’re applying consistent pressure and thickness throughout the entire pot.

By troubleshooting these common issues, we can continue to improve our pottery wheel throwing skills and create beautiful, functional pieces. Don’t be discouraged if you encounter these problems – with practice and patience, you’ll be able to overcome them and create stunning pottery.

Caring for Your Pottery Wheel

Now that we’ve had our beginner pottery wheel experience, it’s important to take care of our pottery wheel so that it lasts a long time and continues to work properly. Here are some tips on how to care for your pottery wheel:

Cleaning and Maintenance Tips

After using your pottery wheel, it’s important to clean it thoroughly. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the surface of the wheel and remove any clay residue. If there is any stubborn clay residue, use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub it away. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the surface of the wheel.

It’s also important to regularly maintain your pottery wheel. Check the bolts and screws to make sure they are tight and secure. If you notice any wobbling or shaking, tighten the bolts or screws as needed. Lubricate any moving parts with a light machine oil to keep them running smoothly.

Storing Your Pottery Wheel

When you’re not using your pottery wheel, it’s important to store it properly. Keep it in a dry, cool place to prevent any damage from moisture or extreme temperatures. You may also want to cover it with a dust cover to protect it from dust and debris.

If you need to move your pottery wheel, make sure to do so carefully. Lift it by the base rather than the wheel head to avoid damaging any delicate parts. Secure any loose parts and cover the wheel with a protective layer to prevent scratches or dents.

By following these cleaning and maintenance tips, as well as proper storage techniques, we can ensure that our pottery wheel stays in good condition and continues to work properly for years to come.