10 Best New Pottery and Ceramic Books for 2024

There are a lot of great new books focusing on ceramics and pottery this year. This posts covers ten new books on ceramic artists and technique that were published in 2024, and a few from the very end of 2023.

Complete Guide to Low-Fire Glazes for Potters and Sculptors by Ben Carter

An excellent introduction and guide to the world of low-fire glazes by Ben Carter, host of the Red Clay Rambler podcast and author of the popular book Mastering the Potter’s Wheel. This new book covers all aspects of mixing glazes, and includes numerous full-color images of example work along with a variety of recipes.

Low-Fire Glazes for Potters and Sculptors
By Ben Carter
Hardcover, 176 pages
published September 2024 by Quarry Books
Listed at $30 but usually available for $27

Magdalena Suarez Frimkess: The Finest Disregard

Image of art catalog The Finest Disregard covering the work of Magdalena Suarez Frimkess. The red book has pink text and in front of the lettering is a Suarez Frimkess ceramic sculpture inspired by Minnie Mouse

Catalogue from the Los Angeles County Museum of Art retrospective of ceramic artist Magdalena Suarez Frimkess. The 95-year-old artist is definitely having a moment this year and this wonderful catalogue is full of images of work, mostly from the past 10 years, along with essays and more.

Check out this post on the catalogue as well.

The Finest Disregard
Published by Los Angeles County Museum of Art and DelMonico Books, 2024
Hardcover, 128 pages
Listed at $49.95

Toshiko Takaezu: Worlds Within

Another exhibition catalogue that is a worthy addition to any library is Toshiko Takaezu: Worlds Within, which accompanies the traveling exhibition of the same name. A long-due exploration of the artist, who lived from 1922 to 2011, the catalogue includes essays, lots of full-color images, and even some writings by Takaezu herself. The catalogue includes many examples of the “closed forms” which Takaezu is known for, along with other ceramics, paintings, and more.

Toshiko Takaezu: Worlds Within
By Glenn Adamson and others
Published by Yale University Press
Hardcover, 368 pages
Listed at $65 but usually available for less

Glazes for the Contemporary Maker by Louisa Taylor

Glazes for the Contemporary Maker by Louisa Taylor book cover image featuring a variety of cylindrical ceramic vessels in muted colors on a green pedestal on a dark green background

Louisa Taylor is a ceramic stalwart now, having published multiple editions of The Ceramics Bible and Ceramics Masterclass in 2020 (Check out a full review of Masterclass here). In her latest book, Taylor covers everything you need to get started with glazing. Chapters include “Establishing Your Glaze Practice,” studio setup, firing, and more, along with 200 illustrated recipes. Not as specific as the Low-Fire book mentioned above, this is a more general guide for getting started at all temperatures of firing ceramics.

Glazes for the Contemporary Maker
By Louisa Taylor
Published March, 2024 by The Crowood Press
144 pages
Listed $29.99 but usually available for less

Magdalene Odundo: A Dialogue with Objects

Magdalene Odundo: A Dialogue with Objects featuring a black ceramic vessel by Odundo on a white background

Magdalene Odundo is a Kenyan-born, British artist known for elegant vessels that draw on traditions ranging from Aztec to Chinese to African pottery, and are in dialogue with contemporary traditions including modernism. In this survey work, potter and art historian Sequoia Miller provides a new perspective on Odundo’s work, and includes an in-depth look at Odundo’s prints and sketchbooks. The book includes a foreword by Susan Jefferies and contributions by Nehal El-Hadi, Elizabeth Harney, and Barbara Thompson.

Magdalena Odundo: A Dialogue with Objects
By Sequoia Miller and others
Published September 2024 by Princeton University Press
Hardcover, 112 pages
Listed at $49.95 but usually available for less

Thrown by Lilly Maetzig

Thrown by Lilly Maetzig cover image

Following up 2023’s Handbuilt, Maetzig returns with a new book in a similar format, this time focusing on the pottery wheel. The book includes 20 projects ranging from dinner plates to lamp shades, and includes making, decorating, and firing instructions. If you are a fan of the artist’s Mae Ceramics line, or just looking for an inspirational book, this is a good introduction to functional homewares made on the wheel.

Thrown
By Lilly Maetzig
Published October 2024 by Quadrille Press
160 pages
Listed at $29.99

Radical Clay: Contemporary Women Artists From Japan

Accompanying an exhibition of the same name, this catalogue explores 36 women artists from Japan who have made ceramic work in the past 50 years. Richly illustrated with short texts on each artists, this is a beautiful overview of recent work from Japan. The exhibition was at the Art Institute of Chicago last year, and is currently at the Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota, Florida, and will travel to The Ackland Art Museum at UNC Chapel Hill in 2025.

Radical Clay: Contemporary Women Artists From Japan
Edited by Joe Earle
Published Novemeber 2023 by the Art Institute of Chicago
128 Pages
Listed at $30 but often available for less

Architectural Pottery: Ceramics for a Modern Landscape

Architectural Pottery: Ceramics for a Modern Landscape book cover with a black and white image of a man holding a ceramic vessel against a wall of large pottery vessels

The book focuses on the firm Architectural Pottery, which launched in 1950 with modernist ceramic objects designed for the new houses being built in America. Accompanying an exhibition at the American Museum of Ceramic Art in Pomona, Calif., this book includes numerous black and white and color images. A must for any fan of midcentury modernism, this work also provides a historical background to the numerous artists and companies making large-scale ceramic furniture and planters today.

Architectural Pottery: Ceramics for a Modern Landscape
By Daniel Chavkin, Jeffrey Head, and Jo Lauria
Published September 2024 by The Monacelli Press
256 pages
Listed $59.95 but usually available for less

Tecla Tofano: This Body of Mine

A small monograph on the Venezuelan artist Tecla Tofano (1927–1995), this book includes essays and images on this innovative artist. Tofano’s work is often totemic but also domestic, and explores issues of maternity, sexism, and socioeconomic status.

Tecla Tofano: This Body of Mine
Published February, 2024 by James Cohan Gallery
112 pages, softcover
Listed at $35 but often available for less

Dried Peyote and 7 Up: The Work and Vision of Michael Frimkess

Dried Peyote and 7 Up: The Work and Vision of Michael Frimkess book cover

A limited-edition book (edition of 250), this book focuses on Los Angeles ceramist Michael Frimkess (and spouse of Magdalena Suarez Frimkess). This is the first monograph on the artist’s 60-year plus career.

Dried Peyote and 7 Up: The Work and Vision of Michael Frimkess
Paperback
$100

Two Poems by Arthur Sze

Two poems mentioning clay from The Glass Constellation, a collection of poems by Arthur Sze. Both poems were originally published in Sze’s 2019 book, Sight Lines. Sze is a National Book Award Winner and also received the 2024 National Book Foundation Science + Literature Award for The Glass Constellation.



 

Doppler Effect

Stopped in cars, we are waiting to accelerate
along different trajectories. I catch the rising

pitch of a train—today one hundred nine people
died in a stampede converging at a bridge;

radioactive water trickles underground
toward the Pacific Ocean; nickel and copper

particulates contaminate the Brocade River.
Will this planet sustain ten billion people?

Ah, switch it: a spider plant leans toward
a glass door, and six offshoots dangle from it;

the more I fingered the clay slab into a bowl,
the more misshapen it became; though I have

botched this, bungled that, the errancies
reveal it would not be better if things happened

just as I wished; a puffer fish inflates on deck;
a burst of burnt rubber rises from pavement.



Salt Song

Zunis make shrines on the way to a lake where I emerge and Miwoks gather me
out of pools along the Pacific the cheetah thirsts for me and when you sprinkle
me on rib eye you have no idea how I balance silence with thunder in crystal you
dream of butterfly hunting in Madagascar spelunking through caves echoing with
dripping stalactites and you don’t see how I yearn to shimmer an orange aurora
against flame look at me in your hand in Egypt I scrubbed the bodies of kings
and queens in Pakistan I zigzag upward through twenty-six miles of tunnels
before drawing my first breath in sunlight if you heat a kiln to 2380 degrees and
scatter me inside I vaporize and bond with clay in this unseen moment a potter
prays because my pattern is out of his hands and when I touch your lips you
salivate and when I dissolve on your tongue your hair rises ozone unlocks a
single stroke of lightning sizzles the earth.

The Glass Constellation: New and Collected Poems
by Arthur Sze
Published 2021 by Copper Canyon Press

The DIY Ceramics Degree

It’s now possible to create your own do-it-yourself ceramics “degree” by utilizing online and text resources. Most of this content is new in the past 5 to 10 years, giving those interested in this medium an unprecedented ability to learn the techniques, history, and critical theory necessary to understand the field of ceramics.

This post will detail videos, books, and more that I believe can give you much of the technical and historical references you might find being taught in an undergraduate ceramics program.

That’s not to say that a DIY program is a complete replacement for in-person learning. I still spend part of each week teaching and demonstrating in academic studios, and the things that happen there are important to one’s development as an artist. These include group discussions and critiques, getting real-time feedback on technical challenges, and learning and sharing from others who are at the same stage.

So with the very large caveat that I believe in-person experiences are vitally important to growth as an artist and maker, here are the resources I believe would make up a DIY ceramics degree:

Techniques and Tutorials

Videos and books to get you up to speed on materials and techniques.

Understanding Pottery series from Washington Street Studios

Understanding Pottery is a 43-part YouTube series posted in 2020 that starts with the video What is Clay? and proceeds to cover every part of the ceramics process in great detail and depth in an approachable lecture format. Even seasoned ceramic artists (talking about myself here!) will learn a few things when watching these videos. Think of these videos as a replacement for a clay and glaze class.

The videos were produced by Washington Street Studios in Bolivar, West Virginia USA.

Click here to see the entire Understanding Pottery playlist.

Washington Street Studios has a few other playlists which can be found here.

John Britt Online Glaze Course

Noted author and glaze formulator John Britt has a 34-part and growing Online Glaze Course posted on YouTube. Started in 2020, Britt continues to expand and update the playlist with more videos. A wealth of knowledge is shared via these videos, and gives a sense of what you might encounter in Britt’s books and in-person glaze classes, and if you watch the whole series, you will most likely have covered more glaze information than is taught in an undergraduate ceramics program!

Click here to see the entire John Britt Online Glaze Course.

Florian Gadsby: Beginner’s Guide to How to Throw a Pot

Florian Gadsby is one of the most popular potters on YouTubes, and is known for numerous, high-quality instructional videos about making pottery and glaze. One playlist, A Beginner’s Guide to Throwing a Pot, is a multi-part series that covers all aspects of getting started on the pottery wheel.

The first video is posted above, or check out the entire playlist here.

Other online references

In addition to the three playlists cited above, there are numerous YouTube, TikTok, Instagram and other online videos that cover just about every aspect of the ceramic process including handbuilding, loading kilns, centering, etc. There are too many to list here, but just search your favorite platform and you’ll be sure to find the advice you need.

Glazy.org is an amazing website full of user-generated glaze recipes and photos. If you are ready to mix your own glazes or are looking for reference images, it’s a great source.

Digitalfire.com is an expansive website written by Tony Hansen. Full of tips, techniques, formulas, recipes, and more, it’s like an ever-expanding ceramic textbook. It’s not necessarily ideal to just browse, but is extremely useful if you have specific questions or are struggling with technical glaze challenges. Just search the site for whatever you are trying to figure out, especially with glazes, materials, and firing.

Textbooks, Ceramic History, and more

Sometimes (often?) it’s better to have a physical reference. Below are a few practical books to start building a reference library in your home and studio.

The Workshop Guide to Ceramics

Academic textbooks focusing on making ceramics are mostly out of print, but you can still find them available used. One of my favorites is The Workshop Guide to Ceramics by Anthony Quinn and Duncan Hooson from 2012. It’s a comprehensive and well-illustrated text that covers all the basics. It seems that a 2017 paperback edition of the book that is the same information but is called Ceramics: The Indispensable Guide, is still in print.

For more textbook recommendations, check out this guide to Ceramic Textbooks from 2020.

The Ceramics Reader

Originally published in 2017, this is a great overview of important texts and ideas relating to contemporary ceramics. I wish this had been around when I was in school! To me, the existence of this book helps solidify the critical foundation of the field of ceramics and hopefully helps build and maintain serious discourse around this medium.

Edited by Andrew Livingstone and Kevin Petrie, the book seems to have limited available at some online shops. Hopefully it stays in print!

 

Paul Mathieu lectures on the history of ceramics

Departing from books a bit, there is great series of 14 lectures on the history of ceramics from artist and educator Paul Mathieu. The YouTube playlist is titled “Ceramics! The Art of the Future?" and is equivalent to a semester-long ceramic history lecture series. View the first video below or click here for the full playlist. (Mathieu is also known for his great 2003 book Sex Pots: Eroticism in Ceramics)

Ceramic, Art & Civilisation

This 2021 book by Paul Greenhalgh is thicker than most art history textbooks and while it is sort of an academic text, I found it to be a very approachable and entertaining read that covers the entire history of the ceramic medium. With amazing images throughout, Greenhalgh is an engaging companion on this journey that should appeal to anyone interested in clay and ceramics.

Artist Profiles and Conversations

Too numerous to mention them all, but there are now lots of catalogues of museum shows, video interviews, and podcast conversations that can provide you with detailed information about individual ceramic artists from throughout history and today. It is truly a golden time to be interested in learning about this medium.

Here are a few places I check often:

The Brickyard Network: A collection of podcasts (currently 8) produced by the Bray, including Tales of Red Clay Rambler, Clay in Color, For Flux Sake, and more. brickyardnetwork.org

Craft in America: Videos from the PBS show, which features artists from a variety of mediums: youtube.com/user/craftinamerica

Art 21: Videos made for PBS and also direct to online: www.youtube.com/@art21org

For more, check out this list of Ceramic Podcasts from 2022.

Conclusion

If you take the time to watch, listen, and read all the resources detailed above, you’ll be well on your way to “earning” a DIY Ceramics Degree! But there is always more to learn and share. If there is something that you think would make a great addition to this list, let us know in the comments.

Pottery Wheel Buyer's Guide — The Best Wheels For All Studios 2023

 
A classroom set of our top pick, the Shimpo VL-Whisper pottery wheel. The latest model of the Whisper has a slightly different table top shape but same super-quiet motor.

A classroom set of our top pick, the Shimpo VL-Whisper pottery wheel. The latest model of the Whisper has a slightly different table top shape but same super-quiet motor.

 

Updated and revised, October 2023

This guide will help you choose the wheel that is best for your studio and budget. This guide includes our recommended picks, an overview of the features found on pottery wheels, and a comprehensive guide to every model of wheel we could find on the market.

First, a quick rundown of our top picks, with more detailed descriptions below:

Shimpo VL-Whisper pottery wheel

The Shimpo VL-Whisper is our top pick for a pottery wheel.

TOP PICK:
Our top pick for all studios is the Shimpo VL-Whisper. It’s a super-quiet workhorse with a 1/2 horse power motor that usually costs around $1,500.

Shop VL-Whisper at Blick

Shop VL-Whisper at Amazon

 

The Shimpo VL-Lite is our top pick for a budget wheel.

BUDGET PICKS:
For a budget / entry level wheel, we love the Shimpo VL-Lite. It’s got a belt-driven, 1/2 horse power moter and usually retails for around $860. It is also the most affordable wheel designed for professional use.

Shop Shimpo VL-Lite at Blick

 

The Speedball Clay Boss is another great wheel that is available at a more budget-friendly price.

Another great budget wheel is the Speedball Clay Boss, which also has 1/2 HP belt-driven motor. It did, however, take a big price jump recently and now typically retails for around $1,040.

Shop Clay Boss at Blick

Shop Clay Boss at Amazon


 

The CXC is the top-of-the-line Brent Wheel and has a 1 HP motor.

UPGRADE / PRO PICK:
Any of the above wheels are great and are used by many professionals, but for extra power and a heavy-duty build, check out Brent wheels such as the Model C or CXC or a Skutt Wheel, especially the Skutt Classic with an aluminum splash pan. Both Skutt and Brent wheels usually retail for $1,900 and up.

Skutt Classic Pottery wheel with a red splash and black legs.

The Skutt Classic pottery wheel features a cast aluminum splash pan.

 

In addition to reviews and recommendations of top wheels, this guide will cover:

  • What to look for when buying a wheel

  • Tips on where and how to buy

  • Provide a side-by-side comparison chart of just about every wheel on the market so that you can make the most informed decision.

Changes for 2023
A few of the big changes for 2023:

  1. Skutt Wheels have a new red and black color scheme and now come with a 10 year warranty instead of 5 years. The product line has also been renamed, but the wheel specifications and designs are the same.

  2. Soldner Wheels are no longer available at most retailers, but are still available directly from Bluebird Manufacturing in Colorado.

  3. Price increases: Almost every wheel is more expensive than last year, and some are hundreds of dollars more than even 3 years ago. For example, the Speedball Clay Boss and Nidec Shimpo VL-Lite used to be available for around $700-$750. Now the Speedball starts around $1,000 and the VL-Lite can be found for $860. Some brands have raised prices more aggressively than other companies.

Note on “Under $200” wheels:
This guide covers wheels from manufacturers including Bailey, Brent, Lockerbie, Pacifica, Shimpo, Skutt, Soldner, and Speedball. These are designed for professional, heavy-duty use. Wether you spend $850 or $1,850, you will get a wheel that could last a lifetime.

The small Vevor wheel is available for just $130.

But what if you are just starting out and want to try wheelthrowing for less? It is probably best to try the wheel in a class, but if you really want something at home, there are numerous wheels that are available online for such as a Vevor for $126 or even just $100. These wheels are small, have weak motors that max out with about 5 pounds of clay, no holes for bat pins, and may not hold up under regular use. You can make them work, but that $100 to 200 would be better put towards any wheel listed in this article, which will last 10 to 20 years or when used properly, a lifetime.

Another option is to check out our guide to table top and portable wheels, which start around $500.

For a complete review and guide to full-size wheels, keep scrolling.

Table of Contents

  1. Top Pick: Shimpo VL-Whisper

  2. Budget Picks: Shimpo VL-Lite or Speedball Clay Boss

  3. Pro Pick: Brent Wheels or Skutt Wheels

  4. Other Great Wheels

  5. Understanding Pottery Wheels

  6. How To Shop For A Wheel

  7. Pottery Wheel Comparison Charts

Top Pick: Shimpo VL-Whisper

The Nidec-Shimpo VL-Whisper pottery wheel, our top pick for a wheel. It has a super-quiet motor, adjustable legs, and a lot of thoughtful features.

The Nidec-Shimpo VL-Whisper pottery wheel, our top pick for a wheel. It has a super-quiet motor, adjustable legs, and a lot of thoughtful features.

Our top pick for all types of studios and skill levels is the Nidec-Shimpo VL-Whisper pottery wheel. Introduced about 15 years ago, this has become one of the top-selling wheels mainly due to its innovative 1/2 horse power, direct-drive DC motor that uses magnets to drive the wheel. This system makes the VL-Whisper truly the most quiet wheel on the market. Almost every other wheel uses a belt-drive system that makes more noise and has more moving parts that can break down over time.

The Shimpo VL-Whisper with the legs removed, for use as a table top wheel if you prefer to stand while throwing.

The Shimpo VL-Whisper with the legs removed, for use as a table top wheel if you prefer to stand while throwing.

Along with being super quiet, the VL-Whisper magnetic drive has instant torque and is powerful enough for most potters. The rest of the wheel is well designed with a three legs, sturdy plastic top, 2-part splash pan that surrounds a 14” wheelhead, a moveable floor pedal, and a switch to run the wheel clockwise or counterclockwise. The 1/2 horsepower 400 watt motor is rated to a centering capacity of 100 lbs and the wheel comes with a 5 year warranty.

The VL-Whisper has other thoughtful engineering touches, including adjustable, removable legs that allow for tabletop use or a variety of heights on the floor. The wheelhead also turns freely at 0 rpm, allowing for use as a banding wheel. The VL-Whisper weighs around 120 lbs and measures 23 1/8” x 27 1/2” and can range from 11” to 21” in height.

The drawbacks to this wheel would be that the splash pan is not the sturdiest. If you are careful and just using it yourself, it will be fine, but I have noticed that it is more prone to cracking in heavy-use communal studios than the Brent splash pan. The foot pedal cord is also prone to twisting. But these are relatively minor issues.

Some pro potters may want a more powerful motor, and some beginners may find the price tag prohibitive (typically $1550), but I can really say without a doubt that this is the best overall wheel on the market. What really sets it apart is the quiet motor, adjustable legs, 0 rpm banding wheel option, and how it is just a thoughtfully designed, sturdy machine. The Nidec Shimpo company has also done a good job keeping the price down. Brent B wheels, for example, used to priced about the same as the VL-Whisper, but now the entry-level Brent is typically $300 more than the VL-Whisper.

This wheel is available at just about every ceramic supplier worldwide. The wheel is readily available at Blick art stores in North America or can sometimes be found at Amazon as well.

Shimpo VL-Whisper
14 inch wheel head, reversible, 1/2 horsepower
Typical Price: $1532

Budget Picks: Shimpo VL-Lite or Speedball Clay Boss

The VL-Lite from Shimpo is a great, budget-friendly wheel.

The Shimpo VL-Lite and Speedball Clay Boss are the best budget wheels on the market, but the VL-Lite is now usually priced around $180 cheaper than the Clay Boss, making it the clear favorite on price.

The VL-Lite has 1/2 horsepower motor, 12 inch wheel had, sturdy plastic table top with metal legs, and is reversible via a switch.

The drawback to this wheel would be it’s somewhat limited, 25-pound centering capacity. But for many, that would be an extremely large amount of clay! So you have to think about what you typically throw and consider if this is the right wheel for you.

Shimpo VL-Lite
12 inch wheel head, reversible, 1/2 horsepower
Typical Price: $860

The Speedball Clay Boss, our top pick for a budget wheel. It’s got a 1/2 horse power motor and lighter body construction that many prefer.

The Speedball Clay Boss, has a 1/2 horse power motor and a lighter body construction that many prefer for ease of moving the wheel around.

The Speedball Clay Boss has a 1/2 horse power motor, a belt-driven, 14” wheelhead, and a standard triangular design that weighs around 83 pounds, making it one of the lightest full-size wheels on the market. (The VL-Lite weighs 85)

The Clay Boss has a detached foot pedal, and is reversible by switching the direction of the plug, so it will work for throwing clockwise or counter clockwise. Speedball rates it at a 100 pound throwing capacity.

There aren’t any big downsides to this wheel, but there are trade offs. It doesn’t have the most robust build on the foot pedal. And it’s belt-driven, so it will be noisier than our top pick, the Shimpo VL-Whisper. But it’s still a great wheel that will get the job done.

Speedball Clay Boss
14 inch wheel head, reversible with plug, 1/2 horsepower
Typical Price: $1,040

Pro Pick: Soldner Wheels or Skutt Wheels

The Soldner P-200, a 1/2 horse power pottery wheel. Soldner wheels are known for their ultra-responsive foot pedal and plywood table tops.

The Soldner P-200, a 1/2 horse power pottery wheel. Soldner wheels are known for their ultra-responsive foot pedal and plywood table tops.

For potters looking for an upgraded experience, the best option are Soldner or Skutt wheels. These wheels feature large, oversized motors and extra-responsive, upgraded foot pedals, combined with sturdy legs and tops. Do you need a wheel like this? If you are serious potter, spending a few hours a day on the wheel or more, the larger motors will really deliver for you and not overheat (The Shimpo VL-Whisper is great in this regard too). But the big upgrade for many will be the super-sensitive foot pedals.

Soldner wheels are the only wheels on the market with wooden tops. Made by and now almost exclusively available from Bluebird Manufacturing in Fort Collins, Colorado, the finished, marine-grade plywood is attractive and super strong. And the Soldner wheels are known for their smooth, strong motors with a top-of-the-line foot pedal that will adjust to every touch you give. These wheels are a pleasure to use. Any of the five wheels in the line up are great.

The Skutt Classic wheel with a built-in, aluminum splash pan.

The Skutt line features three wheels, including their entry-level model, the Prodigy, which has a circular splash pan on a table much like other wheels.

Pros will want to look at the two higher-end models which feature large and deep splash pans.

The Legend wheels have a removable wheel head and splash pan for easy cleanup, and is available in 1/3 hp, 1/2 hp or 1 hp options.

The Classic wheel has a built in, super sturdy aluminum splash pan and also has the option of a 1/3 hp, 1/2 hp, or 1 hp motor.

The Skutt wheels also have an optional “SSX” foot pedal upgrade, which gives you an ultra-responsive, smooth response that puts these in the same range as the Soldner wheels. For 2023, Skutt wheels also feature a new color scheme of red and black.

Skutt Classic
14” wheel head, reversible
Built in splash pan
Typical price: $2,153 for 1/2 hp option

Skutt Legend
14” wheel head, reversible
Removable splash pan
Typical Price: $1,980 for 1/2 hp option

Other Great Wheels: Brent Wheels and Others

The Brent B, a 1/2 horse power pottery wheel that is one of the most popular wheels on the market.

The Brent B, a 1/2 horse power pottery wheel that is one of the most popular wheels on the market.

In addition to the options above, there are other pottery wheel options to consider, particularly wheels from Brent, Bailey, and Pacifica.

For many potters, their favorite wheels are made by Brent. Known for their distinctive yellow ochre plastic tops and splash pans, you have probably seen or used a Brent as they are arguably the best-selling wheels in North America. (This data isn’t public but Brent and Shimpo seem to be the two most common wheels).

As a point of comparison, the Brent B is closest to the other wheels we have recommended above. It has a 1/2 horsepower motor, can go forward and reverse, and has a 12 inch wheel head. When new, these wheels are very quiet even though they utilize a belt-driven system, and with a 10-year warranty, you can be assured that Brent wheels will last for decades.

While the Brent wheels are incredibly popular, they are not our top pick for two reasons: The Shimpo VL-Whisper is much quieter. And the Soldner and Skutt wheels come with added features, such as better foot pedals and oversized motors. Brent doesn’t have these upgrades, but if they had a more responsive foot pedal option, they would be strong contenders along with Soldner and Skutt wheels

For a complete guide to Brent wheels, click here.

Brent B
12” wheel head, reversible, 1/2 HP motor
Typical Price: $1,900

Brent C
14” wheel head, reversible, 3/4 HP motor
Typical Price: $1,983

Understanding Pottery Wheels, a Pottery Wheel Buying Guide

In this section, we’ll go through each part and feature to help you understand wheels and how to choose the best one for you. Unfortunately, there’s usually not a store or supplier where you can go and sit down and try every wheel, so going through each part of the wheel will help you understand the different features offered by each manufacturer.

Motor

The biggest difference between wheels, even within a manufacturer’s product line, is usually the motor. With wheels on the market ranging from 1/4 horsepower to 1 horsepower, most potters will find that a 1/2 HP motor is the sweet spot of plenty of power without paying extra. If you are able to test wheels in person, you will see the difference in size of motors too. Not all motors are created equally, even if they are rated to the same HP. You may want to also compare the wattage of the motor, to see which motors may have a higher capacity and will hopefully better withstand overheating under heavy use.

With that in mind, if you can afford it, go for the biggest motor that fits your budget to give yourself more longevity.

Centering Capacity

A similar consideration to the motor power, centering capacity is often mentioned with wheels. It’s a somewhat useful metric that is basically a stand-in for horsepower. Skutt, however, refuses to provide this centering capacity number, arguing that it is a useless metric. But since most manufacturers use it, we’ve kept it in our chart below. Centering capacity is related to both the power of the motor, the torque it gives at start up, and the sensitivity of the foot pedal. If it matters to you, and you have the money, you won’t be disappointed with a bigger motor with more centering capacity. Realistically, most potters aren’t centering more than 10 or 20 lbs so wheels advertising 200 or 300 lb centering capacities are really indicating that they have an overbuilt motor that will be able to take a lot of use.

Table Top, Legs, Frame

The next biggest difference is the material and design of the table and legs. Most wheels have a sturdy plastic top, and metal legs. Some have beefier legs, metal tops, or in the case of Soldner wheels, a marine-grade plywood top. Manufacturers typically have one or maybe two table styles, and will build different features on top of these frames. These frame constructions will determine the dimensions and some of the weight of the wheel. When choosing a wheel, consider the size, weight, and type of frame and table top that will work for your studio. If you are moving wheels around, say in a classroom, then a lighter wheel may be better.

Splash Pan

Another point of comparison is the splash pan. Typically a two-part plastic pan that clips around the wheelhead, splash pans are useful for collecting throwing water or trimming scraps. Some wheels, such as Baileys and Skutts, have large one-piece splash pans that cover the whole top of the frame. Some of these one-piece splash pans are removable, and others are built in and can be cleaned and emptied via a drain plug. As cleanup is a big part of throwing, choosing a splash pan that suits you can be important.

Weight / Dimensions

Most wheels are about the same size and shape, with some variation with half moon shapes with Soldner and Lockerbie wheels. The weight is determined by the size of the motor and the frame construction. A lighter wheel, such as a Speedball, is easier to move while pro-type wheels, such as Skutt, have marketing pictures of potters standing on top of the wheel. How you are going to use a wheel and your studio space will really determine if you need a light or heavyweight wheel. Some manufacturers have add-on larger shelves for more working space, but you can also set your wheel up next to a low table to have more shelf space within reach.

Wheelhead

Most wheels have a 12”, 13” or 14” wheelhead with bat pins spaced 10” a part. Some smaller wheels or table top wheels will have different styles. Measure a wheelhead that you like using to determine the size you like, although most wheels now have a 14” wheelhead.

Another point of consideration is if the wheelhead can be removed or replaced. Typically, this is only built in for everyday cleaning in a few models from Skutt and Bailey. For ongoing maintenance, most wheelhead ball bearing assemblies are completely sealed and not designed to be oiled or repacked with grease. If your wheelhead develops a grinding sound, you may have to replace it.

Foot Pedal

A foot pedal may seem just like a simple speed control, but the pro-level Skutt and Soldner wheels use their ultra-responsive (and more expensive) pedals as a selling point. In addition to the upgraded pedal options, also consider if the foot pedal and on-board electronics are providing some kind of computer-controlled speed modulation to keep things even (such as Pacifica wheels), or just letting you control the speed with the pedal (such as Brent, Shimpo, Soldner, and Skutt wheels.) The more experienced you are, the less you’ll want the wheel making decisions for you.

One other point of consideration with foot pedals is whether it is fixed or not. Every model listed below has a moveable foot pedal except the Shimpo RK-Whisper, which has an attached pedal on the right side. A moveable foot pedal lets you to choose which side to place it, and allows you to raise the pedal on bricks if needed.

Speed

Many manufacturers provide a rotations per minute (RPM) figure in relation to motors, which we’ve included below. Once again, these give you a rough approximation of motor power and torque, but they are all within a range that is about the same, ranging from 0 to 240-260 rpm max. The Lockerbie motor has a much lower max rpm but it’s a super beefy 1/3 HP motor that trades a high speed for great torque.

Reversability

Most good wheels these days come with a convenient switch where you can reverse the direction of the motor, allowing you to throw clockwise or counter clockwise. Some lower-priced wheels have a reversible plug, where you have to manually switch the direction of the cord to have the wheel go clockwise or counter-clockwise. Some wheels are not reversible at all.

Adjustable Legs and Leg extenders

Some wheels, such as Soldners, come with adjustable legs so that you can set the wheel height exactly how you want it. Almost any other wheel will have to be adjusted with shims or bricks, if you want to move it up a few inches.

A few manufacturers make leg extenders, so that a wheel can be converted to a standing wheel. This style of throwing can be more comfortable for your lower back. Definitely consider this when choosing a wheel, or look at the models such as the Shimpo Whisper, which has removable legs and a flat bottom so that it can be easily placed on a table.

Shipping and Assembly

Some wheels arrive completely assembled, others need some light assembly such as attaching legs. They also vary on whether they ship via FedEx / UPS or by freight. Expect to pay extra for shipping and delivery, unless you are picking a wheel up in person. Also consider how you will get the wheel into your studio, as they can be heavy. Some vendors will include free shipping so definitely compare prices with shipping included to find the best deal.

Warranty

Warranties on wheels range from 2 to 10 years. But every wheel listed below is a top-quality product that should last for decades. If you are careful and respectful, you shouldn’t worry too much about a shorter warranty. But if you are buying for an educational or communal studio where wheels can really be abused, you might want to consider wheels with longer warranties.

In our experience, the main upkeep on wheels is keeping them clean and trying to occasionally add some oil to moving parts. Foot pedals can be adjusted, electronics such as switches can be replaced. The biggest concern would be a wheelhead bearing assembly getting repeatedly swamped with too much water in the splashpan. But if you are careful, a wheel may never need any major repairs.

The “under $200” wheels don’t seem to come with any warranty at all.

Price

All the factors above contribute to the price. The lowest price possible is often the driving force of any purchase, and if that is you, we recommend the Shimpo VL-Lite wheel, which typically cost around $860. For this lower price you are getting a lighter, less beefy frame and most likely a noisier motor but one that will still get the job done for you. Professional-grade wheels typically cost $1,300 to $1,500 and up to $2,000 or more, depending on the options you select. If you are on the fence when choosing upgrades such as a bigger motor or a better foot pedal, consider how you will feel in 5 to 10 or 20 years. You won’t think about the extra few hundred dollars, you will be happy that you got the upgrades to make your wheel last a lifetime.

Where to Shop and Buy Pottery Wheels

Before buying a wheel, think about what you have used and what features you need. If you currently have a favorite style or brand of wheel, you’ll probably be happy sticking with that style. For research, the best place to start is your local ceramic shop where you can hopefully “test drive” different models to see what feels good to you. Consider asking if they have floor models or special deals on wheels already in stock. Unfortunately, most ceramic suppliers do not have every model of wheel available in the store to try out, so you will almost always be choosing based on limited in-person experience.

If you are shopping online, we have provided links to some wheels at Blick (North America) and Amazon. Some ceramic stores advertise a price that includes shipping, while others add it on in your cart. So definitely shop around and see where you can find the best deals. If you order from online vendors, the wheel is most likely going to be shipped directly from the manufacturer anyway, so you should try to find the best deal.

Wheel Repair and Warranty

After buying a wheel, you will be dealing with the manufacturer if you need any repairs, although a relationship with a local ceramic shop is a great resource if you need help with repairs or adjustments. Manufacturers such as Skutt and Bailey are known for the great online and phone customer service. Other manufacturers, such as Brent, provide lots of support both in person and with repair videos on YouTube.

Most likely, nothing will go wrong with your wheel in the short term but you should expect to make adjustments to foot pedals. And if you are messy, or have an academic studio, expect students to jam clay into any open spot on the wheel, potentially damaging parts such as on/off switches or swamping the wheelhead with water, getting water into the bearing assembly. For most quality wheels, repair parts are readily available from ceramic suppliers or the manufacturer. The good news is that manufacturers are increasingly using sealed switches and other waterproof parts.

Pottery Wheel Comparison Chart

This chart is in alphabetical order by manufacturer, including Bailey, Brent, Lockerbie, Pacifica, Shimpo, Skutt / Thomas Stuart, Soldner, and Speedball. These are all trustworthy brands and any of the wheels listed below will last a long time. We have done our best to compile a typical range of prices found online and in store, along with each wheel’s features, updated as of October 2023. There is also a description of what to expect from each manufacturer’s wheels.

The Bailey Pro-XL Pottery Wheel is our pick for the best Bailey wheel. It has a 1-piece splash pan and a 1/2 HP motor.

The Bailey Pro-XL Pottery Wheel is our pick for the best Bailey wheel. It has a 1-piece splash pan and a 1/2 HP motor.

Bailey Pottery Wheels

Bailey Wheels are manufactured by the Bailey Pottery Corporation of Kingston, New York. Known for innovative and high quality slab rollers, kilns, extruders, and other equipment for ceramic studios, the Bailey wheels are characterized by a large, table-sized splash pan. There are two main models, the ST and the PRO model, which each come in three different options. The ST models have a 2-piece, removable splash pan while the PRO models have a 1-piece, counter-sized fixed splash plan with a plug and a drain tube.

Bailey sells optional leg extenders that work with all the models, which can extend the height from 29 to 37 inches.

All the models utilize a standard belt drive system, and have detached foot pedals.

For the best option, go with the ST-XL or PRO-XL, which both feature a 1/2 HP motor, 13” wheelhead, and a reversing switch.

Bailey Pottery Wheels

Available at baileypottery.com
Model Typical Price Motor (HP) Wheelhead
Diameter		 Bat Pin
Diameter		 Reversible Dimensions Weight Speed (RPM) Warranty Capacity
ST $1,351 1/4 HP 12" 10" Yes, plug 22.5 x 25.5 x 21" 93 lbs 0-200 5/10 years 50 lbs
ST-X $1,541 1/4 HP 13" 10" Yes, switch 24.5 x 29 x 20.25" 103 lbs 0-200 10 years 50 lbs
ST-XL $1,702 1/2 HP 13" 10" Yes, switch 24.5 x 29 x 20.25" 123 lbs 0-200 10 years 100 lbs
PRO-50R $1,499 1/4 HP 12" 10" Yes, plug 24.25 x 29 x 20.25" 92 lbs 0-200 10 years 50 lbs
PRO-X $1,581 1/4 HP 13" 10" Yes, switch 24.5 x 29 x 20.25" 102 lbs 0-200 10 years 50 lbs
PRO-XL $1,692 1/2 HP 13" 10" Yes, switch 24.5 x 29 x 20.25" 116 lbs 0-200 10 years 100 lbs

Brent Pottery Wheels

The Brent B Pottery Wheel, a full-sized wheel with a 1/2 HP motor.

The Brent B Pottery Wheel, a full-sized wheel with a 1/2 HP motor.

Brent wheels are the workhorses of the ceramics world. These are some of the most popular wheels and you will see these yellow ochre machines just about everywhere. Founded in 1967 by Robert Brent, the wheels have been manufactured by the American Art Clay Company (AMACO) since 1978. The wheels are sturdy, dependable, and easy to adjust and repair. Expect these machines to easily last 15 to 20 years or more even under the heaviest of uses.

The product line is straightforward with one style of frame available in yellow ochre or all black. The difference in the models is simply a larger motor.

The Brent B has a 1/2 hp motor, the C has a 3/4 hp motor, and the CXC has a 1 hp motor. (As of 2023, Brent is no longer listing the 1 1/2 hp CXC model.)

One note is the Brent centering capacity, as listed below. These are some really big numbers — Brent claims a 150 lb centering capacity for the Model B with a 1/2 HP motor. Most other manufacturers claim 50 lbs for a 1/2 HP motor. So these numbers may be a bit inflated but we’ve included Brent’s numbers below.

Brent wheels are available at ceramic suppliers or click the links in the chart to shop at Dick Blick. For a complete overview of the product line, click here.

Brent Pottery Wheels

Click links in the chart to shop at Blick.
Model Typical Price Motor (HP) Wheelhead
Diameter		 Bat Pin
Diameter		 Reversible Dimensions Weight Speed (RPM) Warranty Capacity
B $1,898 1/2 HP 12" 10" Yes, switch 21 x 28 x 21.5" 119 lbs 0-240 10 years 150 lbs
B Black $1,938 1/2 HP 12" 10" Yes, switch 21 x 28 x 21.5" 119 lbs 0-240 10 years 150 lbs
C $1,983 3/4 HP 14" 10" Yes, switch 21 x 28 x 21.5" 121 lbs 0-240 10 years 225 lbs
C Black $2,023 3/4 HP 14" 10" Yes, switch 21 x 28 x 21.5" 121 lbs 0-240 10 years 225 lbs
CXC $2,064 1 HP 14" 10" Yes, switch 21 x 28 x 21.5" H 129 lbs 0-240 10 years 300 lbs
CXC Black $2,104 1 HP 14" 10" Yes, switch 21 x 28 x 21.5" H 129 lbs 0-240 10 years 300 lbs
Model 16 $3,855 1/2 HP 12" 10" Yes, switch 36 x 36 x 21-35" H 287 lbs 0-240 2 years 150 lbs

Lockerbie Pottery Wheels

The Lockerbie Motorized Kick Wheel, a true workhorse of a wheel with possibly the biggest motor on the market.

The Lockerbie Motorized Kick Wheel, a true workhorse of a wheel with possibly the biggest motor on the market.

Lockerbie Wheels are an interesting option manufactured by Laguna Clay in California. There are three models: a kickwheel (K), a motorized kickwheel (EK), and a reversible motorized kickwheel (EK-R). These are big, heavy wheels but if you want to switch between a kickwheel and a motor, this is the best option on the market. All models feature an adjustable wooden seat, a metal splash pan, and an all-metal frame with a concrete flywheel.

The flywheel results in a steady, even spin when used as a kickwheel. While centering and throwing on a non-motorized wheel can take a lot of work, trimming on a kickwheel is an absolute pleasure. The upgraded model with a motor is where this wheel really shines. It’s got a large, powerful motor that while only rated to 1/3 HP and a max of 157 rpm, has a lot of torque and can definitely handle more than the rated 50 lbs centering capacity. When you press the pedal, the motor engages the flywheel through a rubber wheel, or what Laguna calls “rubber friction drive.” This rubber wheel does wear out over time but is easily replaced. When you release the pedal, the kickwheel will continue to spin, until you stop it with a foot or let the flywheel come to a stop.

Lockerbie wheels have been around since the 1960s and in 2007, the company merged with Laguna Clay. The wheel style and design has been virtually unchanged for decades but it is a tough, well-designed beast of a wheel. It’s a great option for educational studios or if you want to have a kickwheel option. The simple, no frills design results in a relatively low price but you will need to pay for freight shipping.

Lockerbie Pottery Wheels

Available at axner.com and other ceramic suppliers.
Model Typical Price Motor (HP) Wheelhead Diameter Bat Pin Diameter Reversible Dimensions Weight Speed (RPM) Warranty Capacity
Kickwheel $1,575 N/A 13" 10" N/A 42 x 36 x 30" 325 lbs N/A 5 years N/A
Electric $1,881 1/3 HP 13" 10" No 42 x 36 x 30" 365 lbs 0-157 5 years 50 lbs
Electric-Reversible $2,024 1/3 HP 13" 10" Yes 42 x 36 x 30" 365 lbs 0-157 5 years 50 lbs

Pacifica Pottery Wheels

The Pacifica GT400, one of two wheels from Pacifica with 1/4 HP motor and a 13” wheelhead.

The Pacifica GT400, one of two wheels from Pacifica with 1/4 HP motor and a 13” wheelhead.

Pacifica has been making wheels since 1972 and was purchased by Laguna Clay in 1992. There are currently two wheels in the product line, the GT400 and GT800. Both wheels are have belt driven, 13” wheelheads, optional leg extensions, and a water-resistant foot pedal. The difference is in the size of the motor, 1/4 HP for the GT400 and 1/2 HP for the GT800.

Pacifica differs from other manufacturers in claiming that, through it’s belt and electronic system, it’s 1/4 HP motor has an effective 1/2 HP, and the 1/2 HP motor has an effective 1 HP. Should these claims be believed? It’s hard to know. What can be said is that these wheels have on-board systems that attempt to modulate the wheel speed and torque to provide even power. In my opinion, the more experienced you are the less you will want these electronic modifications deciding wheel speed for you.

Pacifica wheels do have some of the highest RPMs on the market, topping out at 260 rpms, which is slightly higher than most wheels. Expect these wheels to have a lot of torque. In addition, these wheels are affordable and are a great option for students, educational studios, or serious hobbyists.

Pacifica Wheels are available at ceramic suppliers or click the links in the chart to shop at Dick Blick.

Pacifica Pottery Wheels

Click the links to shop at Blick.
Model Typical Price Motor (HP) Wheelhead
Diameter		 Bat Pin
Diameter		 Reversible Dimensions Weight Speed (RPM) Warranty Capacity
GT400 $1,260 1/4 HP 13" 10" Yes 31 x 27 x 20" 92 lbs 0-260 5 years 80 lbs
GT800 $1,485 1/2 HP 13" 10" Yes 31 x 27 x 20" 105 lbs 0-260 5 years 100 lbs

Nidec-Shimpo Wheels

The Shimpo VL-Whisper, a 1/2 HP wheel with the quietist motor on the market and a 14” wheelhead.

The Shimpo VL-Whisper, a 1/2 HP wheel with the quietist motor on the market and a 14” wheelhead.

Shimpo has a straightforward line of three different full-sized wheels and a table top wheel. Founded in Tokyo, Japan in 1952, Shimpo wheels are distributed world wide. North American operations opened in Chicago, Illinois in 1974 as the Nidec-Shimpo Corporation.

Shimpo’s top-of-the-line VL-Whisper (VL stands for Velocity) is our favorite pottery wheel due to its innovative and quiet magnetic direct drive 1/2 HP 400 watt motor. The wheel is reversible, has a 14” wheelhead, and a detached foot pedal. The wheelhead on the VL-Whisper and RK-Whisper models also turns freely at 0 rpm, for use as a banding wheel.

The classic Shimpo RK-Whisper has been updated to feature the same super-quiet magnetic motor as the VL-Whisper, but with a 12” wheelhead and fixed foot pedal.

The classic Shimpo RK-Whisper has been updated to feature the same super-quiet magnetic motor as the VL-Whisper, but with a 12” wheelhead and fixed foot pedal.

The classic Shimpo RK model now has this same super quiet 1/2 HP 400 watt magnetic Whisper motor, but with a 12” wheel head. Most importantly, this model has a fixed foot pedal on the right side and hand lever. Many love this fixed foot pedal but definitely try this out before buying.

Rounding out the Shimpo product line, the VL-Lite model is a strong competitor for Speedball and other budget models. It features a 1/2 HP 100 watt belt-driven motor, 14” wheelhead and detached foot pedal.

Note that the info below includes both the horse power and wattage for the motor. Not every manufacturer provides the wattage info, but in this case it helps distinguish between the two motors with the VL-Lite having a lower wattage and less powerful motor.

Shimpo Wheels are available at ceramic suppliers, Amazon, or click the links in the chart to check prices at Blick.

Shimpo Pottery Wheels

Click the links below to shop at Blick.
Model Typical Price Motor (HP) Wheelhead
Diameter		 Bat Pin
Diameter		 Reversible Dimensions Weight Speed (RPM) Warranty Capacity
Aspire table top $569 1/3 HP 100w 7" 6" No 14.5 x 20 x 9" 25 lbs 0-230 hand, 0-250 foot 5 years 20 lbs
VL-Lite $858 1/2 HP 100w 12" 10" Yes, switch 22 x 28 x 21" 85 lbs 0-250 5 years 25 lbs
RK-Whisper $1,310 1/2 HP, 400w 12" 10" Yes, switch 20 x 21 x 20" 118 lbs 0-250 5 years 100 lbs
VL-Whisper $1,532 1/2 HP, 400w 14" 10" Yes, switch 23.2 x 27.5 x 22.75" 122 lbs 0-250 5 years 100 lbs

Skutt Wheels

The Prodigy Wheel, the entry-level model from Skutt.

Skutt is well known as a manufacturer of electric kilns, and they have been manufacturing wheels since 2008 when they acquired Thomas Stuart Wheels in 2008.

The Skutt line of wheels has seven wheels that fall in to three categories

  • The entry-level Prodigy wheel

  • The Legend wheels with a removable, one-piece, plastic splash pan

  • The Classic wheels with a built-in, aluminum splash pan that has a plug and drain tube for cleaning

The Skutt Legend Wheel, which has a removable wheelhead and splash pan.

The Prodigy is available with a 1/3 hp motor, while the Legend and Classic wheels area available in 1/3 hp, 1/2 hp, or 1 hp models. For most potters, the 1/2 HP options will be plenty powerful.

All the wheels are also available with an optional “SSX” pedal upgrade, which promises a more even and controlled throwing experience, especially at low speeds. In our opinion, if you are getting a Legend or Classic, you should get the SSX upgrade.

If you read through Skutt’s information, they claim to have the thickest wheelheads, beefiest frames, and oversized motors that can go all day without overheating. Skutt also doesn’t make claims on the centering capacity of their models, arguing that this commonly-used metric is almost meaningless. We agree that it’s just a stand-in for horsepower, so you can judge accordingly by reviewing the chart below.

The Skutt Classic wheel with a built-in, cast aluminum splash pan.

Finally there are also optional leg extensions that allow these wheels to be converted to standing options. These are awesome wheels that would work for just about everyone. They do come at a premium price, but the features and quality deliver and Skutt is well known for its customer service and commitment to its products.

The red and black color scheme was new for these wheels in 2023 and at the time of this writing, the SSX upgrade was included for free as a promotional offer on these re-invisioned wheels.

Skutt Thomas Stuart Wheels are available at ceramic suppliers or click the links in the chart for models available at Blick.

Skutt Pottery Wheels

Click the links in the chart to shop at Blick.
*Note that Skutt does not provide RPMs or Centering Capacity.
Model Typical Price Motor (HP) Wheelhead
Diameter		 Bat Pin
Diameter		 Reversible Dimensions Weight Speed (RPM) Warranty Capacity
Prodigy $1,320 1/3 HP 12" 10" No 24 x 30 x 24" 94 lbs - 10 years -
Removable splash pans:
Legend $1,849 1/3 HP 14" 10" Yes, switch 24 x 30 x 24" 117 lbs - 10 years -
Legend $1,980 1/2 HP 14" 10" Yes, switch 24 x 30 x 24" 119 lbs - 10 years -
Legend $2,100 1 HP 14" 10" Yes, switch 24 x 30 x 24" H 128 lbs - 10 years -
Built-In Splash Pans:
Classic $1,900 1/3 HP 14" 10" Yes, switch 24 x 30 x 24" 127 lbs - 10 years -
Classic $2,153 1/2 HP 14" 10" Yes, switch 24 x 30 x 24" 128 lbs - 10 years -
Classic $2,189 1 HP 14" 10" Yes, switch 24 x 30 x 24" 140 lbs - 10 years -

Soldner Wheels

The Soldner P series features a half-moon shaped table with 1/4 HP, 1/2 HP, or 3/4 HP motor options.

The Soldner P series features a half-moon shaped table with 1/4 HP, 1/2 HP, or 3/4 HP motor options.

Paul Soldner was one of the original innovators of motorized pottery wheels and founded Soldner Wheels in 1955. For decades, they have been manufactured by Bluebird Manufacturing of Fort Collins, Colorado. The wheels are known for their ability to handle large amounts of clay, ultra-smooth, proprietary foot pedal, and distinctive tops made from polyurethane coated marine-grade plywood.

The Soldner S series has a studio-sized wheel head in 1/6 HP or 1/4 HP motor options.

The Soldner S series has a studio-sized wheel head in 1/6 HP or 1/4 HP motor options.

The wheels come with optional splash pans, or the two-piece Brent splash pans will fit every model. The wheels also feature adjustable legs, which can accommodate a variety of heights for seated pottery. The S-series wheels range from 19” to 25” in height, and the P series range from 22” to 28” high.

Soldner wheels are less common but they have a devoted fan base. They are an absolute pleasure to use, with the foot pedal delivering even, steady power. And the plywood table top is distinctive and very pleasant in the studio environment, as well as being super-tough.

Recently, Bluebird upgraded the motors in these wheels to brushless motors, and improved the foot pedal to make it more waterproof for classroom use.

Soldner Wheels are not readily available via ceramic suppliers, but you can contact Bluebird directly to order these wheels.

Soldner Pottery Wheels

*Prices listed are as of 2022.
Model Typical Price Motor (HP) Wheelhead
Diameter		 Bat Pin
Diameter		 Reversible Dimensions Weight Speed (RPM) Warranty Capacity
S50 $1,409 1/6 HP 14" 10" Yes, switch 24 x 24 x 19-25" 85 lbs 0-250 2 years 50 lbs
S100 $1,576 1/4 HP 14" 10" Yes, switch 24 x 24 x 19-25" 95 lbs 0-250 2 years 100 lbs
P100 $1,891 1/4 HP 14" 10" Yes, switch 29 x 38 x 22-28" 130 lbs 0-250 2 years 100 lbs
P200 $2,079 1/2 HP 14" 10" Yes, switch 29 x 38 x 22-28" 145 lbs 0-250 2 years 200 lbs
P400 $2,438 3/4 HP 14" 10" Yes, switch 29 x 38 x 22-28" 160 lbs 0-250 2 years 400 lbs

Speedball Pottery Wheels

The Speedball Clay Boss, a 1/2 HP pottery wheel with a 14” wheelhead. Our top pick for a budget wheel.

The Speedball Clay Boss, a 1/2 HP pottery wheel with a 14” wheelhead. Our top pick for a budget wheel.

Speedball Pottery Wheels are known for being lighter-weight wheels that still deliver a professional quality motor. Speedball started making wheels in 2009 when they acquired Creative Industries of Cajon, California, which began making wheels in 1971. Many of those Creative Industries wheels are going strong today, although Speedball has changed the table shape and upgraded the line with newer features.

There are three regular-sized wheels in the Speedball product line:

The Clay Boss is an affordable, entry-level wheel. It features a 1/2 HP belt-drive motor, a 14” wheel head, reversible motor by switching the direction of the plug, and can handle 100 lbs of clay. Building on the Clay Boss, the Big Boss and Boss Elite have virtually similar frames and options, but with bigger motors and larger centering capacity.

The Speedball wheels are a great option if price and weight are concerns. There is a trade off with a lighter-weight frame but that also allows you to easily move the wheels around as needed.

Speedball Wheels are available at ceramic suppliers or click the links in the chart to shop at Blick.

Speedball Pottery Wheels

Click the model name to shop at Blick.
Model Typical Price Motor (HP) Wheelhead
Diameter		 Bat Pin
Diameter		 Reversible Dimensions Weight Speed (RPM) Warranty Capacity
Artista table top $549 1/3 HP 11" 10" No 24 x 18 x 9" 26 lbs 0-220 2 years 25 lbs
Clay Boss $1038 1/2 HP 14" 10" Yes, plug 21 x 26 x 19.5" 83 lbs 0-240 10 years 100 lbs
Big Boss $1,271 0.85 HP 14" 10" Yes, plug 21 x 26 x 19.5" 89 lbs 0-250 10 years 150 lbs
Boss Elite SQ $1,428 1 HP 14" 10" Yes, plug 21 x 26 x 19.5" 96 lbs 0-240 5 years 175 lbs

Conclusion

Thank you for reading our guide to pottery wheels. It is comprehensive overview of every professional grade wheel we could find on the market, comparing all the features and options of each wheel. Let us know if you have any questions in the comments.

You might also enjoy:

Pottery Wheel Comparison Chart

Table Top Wheel Buyers Guide 2023

Best Loop Tools For Trimming Pottery

Gift Guide for Potters and Ceramic Artists 2023-2024

The Best Banding Wheels

Best Pottery Wheel Stools

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potter sitting at a pottery wheel wearing a denim blue Claypron and a pottery standing wearing a red Claypron pottery apron

The Claypron is a split-leg potter’s apron available in a variety of colors.

The Claypron

An apron is very useful when working with clay and one of the most popular pottery aprons is The Claypron. Designed for working at the potter’s wheel, it features a split, overlapping leg with ties at the neck and waist. Available in a variety of colors, it is made with high-quality, machine-washable cotton.


Recommended for: everyone
Cost: $40

For more apron recommendations, check out our complete guide to pottery aprons.

Soolla Studio Bag

The Soolla Studio Bag is a canvas art tote that comes in a wide variety of mostly solid colors and a few patterns, and is washable. Well thought out, it has 30+ pockets for small tools and a large central opening, along with padded handles. This is an awesome bag from a small company, that would make a great gift for any potter. The bag typically retails for $59 but can often be found for less.

Recommended for: everyone
Cost: $59

Soolla Bag in green.

Soolla Studio bag in 80s windbreaker pattern

Soolla Bag in 80s Windbreker pattern.

Cara Mae Skincare tub of potter's skin butter lotion with grass background

Potter’s Skin Butter

Made by a potter for potters, this Skin Butter is a great gift and is available in four scents including Tangerine, Lavender, Mint, and Unscented. A 4 ounce jar is $20 and a pump bottle is $26.

Recommended for: everyone
Cost: $20–$26

By My Hands: A Potter’s Apprenticeship
by Florian Gadsby

Published in Fall 2023, By My Hands details the apprenticeship and journey of British potter Florian Gadsby, who makes beautiful pots and is one of the most popular potters on YouTube, Instagram, and other social media sites.

The hardcover edition features numerous color images throughout the 400 page volume.

Recommended for: everyone
Cost: $35

For more recently published books, check out our complete guide to 2023 ceramics and pottery books.

Multi-Function Titanium-Fused PRO Trimming Tool by Xiem Tools

Xiem makes a lot of great tools, but their Multi-Function Pro Trimming Tools are really wonderful, with a long-lasting titanium-fused metal blade, comfortable wooden handle, and most of all, a distinctive and functional shape. In a test of loop tools earlier this year, these were some of our favorites and they continue to impress in the studio. These are available individually or set of three. If getting just one, choose the middle size, #05.

Recommended for: intermediate to advanced
Cost:
$17-19 each
$52 for set of three

Speedball Boss Base pottery tool

There have been DIY versions of this for years, but in early 2023 Speedball released this tool for evenly opening clay on the pottery wheel. It features two handles and a slightly higher center pole, which leaves an even 3/8” base on pots. It’s a bit limited as some may want a thicker base for trimming a foot, but for anyone who struggles with opening, this ergonomic tool is very handy and available in 4 colors. (If you wanted to leave more clay at the base, you can also cut the center pole shorter so might be worth getting 2 of these!)

Recommended for: Potters
Cost: $30 each

Weleda Skin Food

Weleda Skin Food in its distinctive green tube.

There are lots of great everyday creams, such as O’Keeffe’s Working Hands Cream (shop at Amazon), but a real upgrade is Weleda Skin Food. It’s a rich, luxurious cream that will help protect hands during a long studio session or at home. This extra thick cream smells great, melds into your skin quickly, and the squeeze tube makes it easy to use at home or studio. The “original” comes in a 2.5 ounce squeeze tube and Skin Food Body Butter is available in a 5 ounce glass jar.

Recommended for: everyone
Cost: $15

Double Ended Clay Modeling Tool

The line of Colour Shaper double-ended modeling tools from Royal Sovereign.

The Colour Shaper line of tools from Royal Sovereign is a great addition to anyone’s tool kit. Each tool features a high-quality rubber modeling tool, with a corresponding metal loop tool on the other side. Available in a variety of sizes and with a pointed or chisel rubber tip, these are especially useful for sculptors and hand builders but have their place in a potter’s tool kit as well. If getting just one, check out the size 6 tool with a chisel tip, which usually retails for $12-13.

Recommended for: Everyone
Cost: $12-13

Handbuilt: A Modern Potter’s Guide to Handbuilding with CLay by Lily Maetzig

Handbuilt a Modern POtter's Guide to Handbuilding with Clay book cover by Lily Maetzig with handbuilt red and white pots

Lilly Maetzig is a potter who has built a strong following online for instructional videos (search for Mae Ceramics) and in 2023 released this book, which introduces more than 20 projects that you can do without a wheel including a pedestal bowl, pinched teapot, and nesting plates.

Recommended for: beginners to intermediate
Cost: $24

Tool Kits

A packaged tool kit can be a great way for a beginner to get going, or for an experienced potter to replenish their tool supply. There are a few options:

Mudtool Essentials Starter Kit

Mudtools pottery tools essentials kit with 9 tools

The Mudtools Essentials Starter Kit includes 9 tools and a storage tube.

This kit from MudTools includes three flexible polymer ribs, the Mudshark cutting tool, a cut-off wire with rounded handles, a long plastic scraper/rib, a sponge, the MudTools all-in-one trimming tool, and the MudTools shredder.

Recommended for: everyone
Cost: $80-$95.

Xiem Tool Kits

Xiem 10 piece pottery tool kit

The Xiem 10 piece beginner’s pottery kit.

Xiem Tools makes two tool kits with some of their best and most popular pottery tools.

The 10 Piece Beginners Pottery Kit actually contains 9 tools (unless you count the tube it comes in as a tool!) including a Foot Shaper, Needle Tool, Heavy Duty Clay Sponge, 11" Pro Wire Clay Cutter, 2 Titanium Fused Trimming Tools, Soft Silicone Clay Rib, Rigid Plastic Clay Rib, and Flexible Stainless Steel Rib.

Recommended for: Beginners / Intermediate
Cost: $60

Xiem 14 piece pottery tool kit

The Xiem 14 piece Pottery Essentials tool kit.

The 14 piece Essentials Kit (13 tools plus the tube) has the same tools as the Beginners set with the addition of an extra rib, another loop tool, a metal clay knife, and the extendable Xiem pottery sponge.

Recommended for: Intermediate / advanced
Cost: $95.

Tote Bags

Tote and organizer bags also make a great gift for potters and ceramic artists, especially those that work in shared studios and have to pack up their tools after working. Here are a few options, in addition to the Soolla Bag mentioned above:

JJRing Craft and Art Organizer Tote Bag

ote bag caddy for art supplies pottery supplies office

The JJRing Tote Bag

The JJRing Craft and Art Organizer Tote Bag comes in a variety of colors and has numerous pockets to keep everything in its place. Made of nylon with cardboard supports, this bag is available in a variety of colors.

Recommended for: Everyone
Cost: $15.99

Xiem Artist’s Tool Bag

This deluxe bag features a metal frame, canvas pockets, and a wooden handle. This bag will definitely hold everything you need and more.

Recommended for: Everyone
Cost: $35–54.95 (At time of writing, was cheapest at Blick)

Carve Your Clay: Techniques to Bring the Ceramic Surface to Life by Hilda Carr

Carve Your Clay cover image

This book was published in 2020 but has been a steady favorite since. With ideas for surface decoration including carving, inlay, scraffito, wire cutting and more it has easy-to-follow instructions and great illustrations. Based on Hilda Carr’s signature style but with variations and ideas for every potter, the book is available in hardcover or paperback. (See below for a fluting tool that makes a great pair with this book.)

Recommended for: Everyone
Cost: $19 paperback, $25 hardcover

Xiem Fluting Tool

The Xiem Fluting Tool comes with 3 sizes of blades and an ergonomic handle.

Pair this fluting tool with the book Carve Your Clay and you will have an awesome gift for any potter. The tool comes with 3 blades and an ergonomic handle. Replacement blades are available as well, making this a well thought out and long-lasting tool.

Recommended for: Everyone
Cost: $18

Pottery T-Shirts at Society6, Redbubble, Threadless, and more

There’s a lot of fun t-shirts with pottery and kiln themes available from print-on-demand sites. Most of these sites also pay a portion of the sale price to the artists and designers, so not only are you getting a cool gift, but you’re supporting other artists and designers too. If you see a pattern or design you like, make sure to click around — designs are usually available on multiple products so you can find the right gift.

Pictured here a few shirt ideas with links, or check out our post about pottery shirts.

Recommended for: Everyone
Cost: typically $18-30 each depending on options and styles.

Mastering Ceramics Series

The Mastering Ceramics books are great for beginners and intermediate pottery students. The thorough, straightforward advice covers a variety of techniques in an easy-to-approach style. All three books are a great addition to any potter’s bookshelf.

The books usually cost $18-25 each.

Mastering the Potter’s Wheel by Ben Carter, published 2016

Shop at Amazon | Shop at Blick | Shop at Bookshop.org

Mastering Hand Building by Sunshine Cobb, published 2018

Shop at Amazon | Shop at Blick | Shop at Bookshop.org

Mastering Kilns and Firing by Lindsay Oesterritter, published 2019

Shop at Amazon | Shop at Bookshop.org

Wagner HVLP Spray Gun

A High Velocity Low Pressure (HVLP) spray gun just needs a power outlet to instantly get any potter spraying glaze. With a built-in fan, nozzle, and cup for glazes, it’s a quick and affordable way to spray glaze. Wagner makes a straightforward, dependable HVLP that worked great in our recent test of spray guns. The best part is the smaller, cheaper models seem to be best suited for spraying glaze.

Safety Note: Spraying glaze should only down with proper respirator masks and excellent ventilation, or outside.

Recommended for: Advanced
Cost: $55 for basic model, $85 for slightly bigger spray gun

Mudtools trimming tool with flat end and curved end for pottery

The Mudtools double-ended trimming tool.

MudTools Double Ended Trimming Tool

This steel trimming tool from MudTools is a great studio tool, allowing potters to trim in a flat plan or in a curve. It’s a toolbox essential tand is also available as part of the MudTools kit, mentioned at the top of the post.

Recommended for: Intermediate / Advanced
Cost: $27

 

Wooden Clay Mallet

This handmade wooden clay mallet, by CompanionWorks of Brooklyn, NY, is well proportioned, comfortable, and beautiful. With a maple mallet and poplar handle, it will only get more beautiful with use. It is great for flattening slabs or for working with large vessels on the wheel. Also check out their beautiful clay anvils for making bowls from slabs. The anvils are available in widths of 3” and 6”.

Recommended for: Intermediate / Advanced
Cost: $40 for mallet or $50 for large anvil.

The CompanionWorks clay mallet (top) and clay anvil are beautiful and functional handmade tools.

Underglaze Sampler Packs

The Speedball Underglaze Sampler Pack

Underglazes are studio favorites and are great way to get vibrant, saturated colors on ceramics. They can be applied by brush, sponge, or spraying. Sample packs are a great way to find the underglaze colors that work best, and are available from a variety of manufacturers.

The Speedball sampler pack includes 12 colors in 2 oz bottles, $45.

AMACO Velvet Underglazes are available in 4 different sampler sets of 2 oz jars for $52 each. Shop at Blick

Mayco has a 10 pack underglaze sampler for around $40. Shop at Amazon

Sax True Flow Underglaze has a 12 pack sampler set for around $43. Shop at Amazon

Creative Pottery: Innovative Techniques and Experimental Designs by Deb Schwartzkopf

Creative Pottery by Deb Schwartzkopf cover image

Whether you are a handbuilder or work on the wheel, this book from 2020 is a guide to taking your ceramics to the next level. Add complexity to your projects with simple changes, learn how to make bisque molds, or choose from other projects in this self guided book from potter Deb Schwartzkopf, founder of Rat City and Rain City studios in Seattle.

Recommended for: all levels
Cost: $27

 

3M Respirator

3M half facepiece respirator with p100 filters

3M half facepiece respirator with P100 filters.

A quality dust mask is a must have for anyone who mixes glazes from scratch, makes their own clay, or works with plaster. The best option is a 3M respirator. A basic model is about $15 plus the filters, but for a few dollars more you can get the “rugged comfort” mask which has a more comfortable liner and a few extra features. Pair it with P100 filters or P100 cartridges, and you’ve got high quality protection against silica and other airborne particulates.

For more, visit our complete guide to dust masks.

3M Respirator, $23-$40 depending on model

Nidec-Shimpo Banding Wheels

The Shimpo 8 3/4” x 2 1/2” tall banding wheel is one of five options from Shimpo.

Banding wheels are very useful for coil building, sculpting, and decorating. Nidec-Shimpo Banding Wheels are the best on the market, made of cast iron with sealed bearings. They are on the heavy side, but this added weight gives the wheels a smooth, even spin. Shimpo banding wheels come in five different sizes ranging from $61 to about $130. The 8 3/4” wide x 2 1/2” tall model ($73) is an all-purpose size that should work for most studios. For more info, read our complete review of banding wheels.

Recommended for: intermediate / advanced
Cost: $61 to $130

Stadea Adjustable Diamond Hand Pad Set

The Stadea adjustable diamond hand pad system.

Stadea is a go-to brand for quality diamond sanding tools, and this new option is great for potters! It features a 5 inch long foam pad with velcro and 6 different diamond pads, ranging from 50 grit to 1500 grit. It’s perfect for light-duty cleanup such as smoothing the bottom of pots and sculptures. And the adjustable pads means you just have to store one foam block, not six, so it can save space too.

Recommended for: everyone
Cost: $47

 

Nidec-Shimpo Potter’s Stool

Shimpo 4 leg adjustable pottery stool with white legs and blue padded top

Nidec-Shimpo Potter’s Stool

Another great gift idea from Nidec-Shimpo is the Shimpo Potter’s Stool. It’s the most versatile, comfortable, and functional pottery stool on the market. It has four adjustable legs with nine slots on each leg with a range of 19 to 26 inches high. The legs can be adjusted independently, allowing for the stool to be set at an angle if desired. It also has a comfortable, padded seat. It’s a great upgrade for any potter.

Recommended for: Anyone who owns a wheel
Cost: $99

Sony Portable Bluetooth Boombox

Sony Bluetooth Boombox with handle black

The Sony Bluetooth Boombox

This little Sony unit is a great for studios. It can stream via bluetooth, or use the digital tuner to pick up just about any AM/FM station in your area. While it doesn’t have audiophile quality, the sound is decent and for me personally, I just like having the option of listening to the radio without fussing with my phone. It seems to be the best, most functional option for a Bluetooth boombox that is priced under $100.

Recommended for: Someone who wants FM and Bluetooth
Cost: $100

Mudtools Rib Set

Mudtools Ribs, some sets of six available at Amazon or buy them individually.

Mudtools ribs are used and loved by many potters. There are four different firmness levels, and each level has six different shapes. There are sets of all 6 on Amazon, or head over to Blick to pick out individual ribs.

Mudtools ribs:
Red — very soft
Yellow — soft
Green — medium
Blue — firm

Mudtools Rib Set, $51 for six ribs at Amazon, or individual ribs at Blick, $9 each.

Milwaukee M12 Cordless Drill

The Milwaukee M12 Drill Kit comes with a drill, one battery, charging station, and a bag.

The Milwaukee M12 compact cordless drill is a studio favorite. It’s strong enough for most jobs, but small and light so that it’s comfortable for just about any user. Paired with the right mixer blade, this is an ideal drill for mixing glazes, plaster, or other tasks in a ceramics studio. Milwaukee also makes a wide variety of tools that fit the M12 battery. Click here to read a full guide to cordless drills.

Recommended for: Potters with their own studios
Cost: $125-$140

Recommended drill accessories for ceramics:

Jiffy LM Laboratory mixer for mixing small glaze cups.

Plastic helix mixer for mixing 1-2 gallon glaze buckets.

Jiffy ES Mixer for mixing 2 to 5 gallon bucket.

Dewalt 14 piece bit set for drilling holes and the Dewalt 45 piece screwdriver set.

My Weigh iBalance 5500 Scale

My Weigh iBalance 5500 digital scale with stainless steel top

My Weigh iBalance 5500 scale has a 5500 gram / 12 lb capacity and is accurate to 0.1 grams.

The MyWeigh iBalance 5500 is a precision scale that is accurate to 0.1 grams while maintaining a large capacity of 5500 grams or about 12 pounds. It has a stainless steel top, optional AC power adapter, simple and intuitive buttons, and a 3 year warranty. The four feet can be independently leveled too. It’s one of the best options on the market and is a great gift for the potter who also mixes their own glaze.

Recommended for: Anyone who mixes glazes
Cost: $249

Giffin Grip trimming tool

Giffin Grip pottery trimming tool in use on a pottery wheel

The Giffin Grip in use, holding a pot in place for trimming.

The Giffin Grip is a trimming tool that attaches to any pottery wheelhead, and various arms allow you to easily hold vases and pots in place for trimming. It sure beats trying to attach pots using small bits of a clay. It’s not cheap—typically around $270—but it lasts for ever and once a potter has one, they’ll use it all the time.

Recommended for: intermediate / advanced
Cost: $270

Speedball Artista Tabletop Wheel

Speedball Artista Tabletop Wheel

The Speedball Artista Tabletop Wheel

The Speedball Artista is a great tabletop wheel that is strong enough for most potters but is also portable and can be stored with ease. It’s the perfect option for an at-home practice wheel or for someone looking to try out pottery with a professional machine. It has an 11” wheelhead, a 1/3 horsepower motor, is compatible with standard 10” bats, and weighs just 26 pounds, so it can easily be put away when not in use. You can also add an optional foot pedal or legs. For a complete overview, check out our guide to tabletop wheels.

Recommended for: everyone
Cost: $549

North Star Portaroller

North Star Portaroller

The North Star Portaroller is a great tool that can instantly upgrade any studio. Designed for artists who are on the go, it’s also ideal for small or home studios because it quickly breaks down into three pieces that can be stored when not in use. The Portaroller has two metal rollers, a crank, and two tabletop pieces that fit on either side of the roller. The top roller can be adjusted for slab thicknesses up to 2.5 inches and it can make slabs that are 16 inches wide. It’s a well thought out piece of equipment that is backed by North Star’s impeccable record of quality. There’s also a larger model in the same style, the North Star Polaris, that can make slabs up to 22 inches wide.

For a complete guide to portable rollers, click here.

North Star Portaroller, 16” wide slabs, $750
North Star Polaris, 22” wide slabs, $1,000

Full Size Pottery Wheels

A professionally quality pottery wheel starts around $800 and ranges up to around $1,500 to $2,000. Most potters use a wheel in the $800 to $1,500 range from quality brands such as Nidec-Shimpo, Brent, or Speedball. We’ve got a complete pottery wheel buyer’s guide here, but just know that as the price goes up you are paying for a stronger motor, a sturdier tabletop and legs, and a few other features.

Here’s a quick overview of a few wheels that would be great gifts.

Nidec-Shimpo Wheels

Nidec makes three full size wheels:

Shimpo VL-Lite

Shimpo RK-Whisper pottery wheel

Shimpo RK-Whisper

Shimpo VL-Whisper pottery wheel

Shimpo VL-Whisper

VL-Lite is a motor-driven model that retails for $858

RK-Whisper has the classic Shimpo metal body and fixed foot pedal, 12” wheelhead, and the ultra-quiet magnet driven wheelhead. It retails for $1,310


VL-Whisper is many potter’s favorite with a 14” wheelhead, the same ultra-quiet magnet drive as the RK, and a moveable foot pedal. It retails for $1,532

Brent Pottery Wheels

Brent Model B.

Brent wheels are workhorses and come in a few models where everything is the same, except the motor. Some models are also available in black in addition to the distinctive “Brent yellow.” The most popular Brent models are the Brent B with a 1/3 horsepower motor, or the Brent C, with a 1/2 horsepower motor.

Brent Model B, 1/3 HP motor, $1,898
Brent Model C, 1/2 HP motor, $1,943

Speedball Wheels

Speedball Clay Boss pottery wheel

Speedball Clay Boss Wheel

In addition to the tabletop model mentioned above, Speedball makes two full sized wheels. The Clay Boss has a 1/2 HP motor with a 14” wheelhead. It’s reversible, but only via a plug and not a switch. The Big Boss has similar features except it comes with a 1 HP motor.

Speedball Clay Boss 1/2 HP wheel, $1,038
Speedball Big Boss 1 HP wheel, $1,271

Other Gift Ideas

Kilns: Read our guide to Skutt kilns here.

Tools: We’ve got a lot more ideas in our tool guides such as:

Scales for glaze mixing

Accessories for glaze mixing

Tools that can be used in the kitchen or the studio.

Classes: A set of classes at your local ceramics studio can be a great gift. If you can’t find a studio, ask a local clay supplier if they can recommend local studios.

Magazine Subscriptions: Magazines are great sources of ideas and inspiration. Check out The Studio Potter, Pottery Making Illustrated, or Ceramics Monthly.

Tours, Trips, or Conferences: Look for pottery-specific travel tours, retreats, or conferences.

What ideas do you have for pottery gifts? Let us know in the comments.

Gift Guides

Posts that may interest you:

Gift Guide for Young Artist and Creative Kids

Gift Guide for Artists Who Paint and Draw

 

The 14 Best New Pottery and Ceramics Books of 2023

Lots of great new titles focusing on pottery and ceramics were published in 2023 and late 2022. Our top picks are below, including a mix of technique and art history books.

For more books, check out these posts from last year:

Best Pottery Technique Books 2022

Best Ceramic History Books and Monographs 2022

By My Hands: A Potter’s Apprenticeship by Florian Gadsby

Florian Gadsby has been documenting his ceramic journey since his student days via Instagram, YouTube and other social media sites. A dynamic, exacting potter and engaging instructor via his videos, in By My Hands Gadsby shares a behind-the-scenes look at his journey in his first book.

Hardcover, 400 pages, published Fall 2023 by Ten Speed Press, $35

Handbuilt: A Modern Potter’s Guide by Lilly Maetzig

Lilly Maetzig is a potter who has built a strong following online for instructional videos (search for Mae Ceramics) and in her first book, introduces more than 20 projects that you can do without a wheel including a pedestal bowl, pinched teapot, and nest plates.

Hardcover, 176 pages, published spring 2023 by Quadrille Publishing, $24

Form and Surface: African Ceramics from the William M. Itter Collection by Diane Pelrine

This book celebrates the African ceramics held in the collection of the Sidney and Lois Eskinazi Museum of Art at the University of Indiana.

Hardcover, 192 pages, published Fall 2023 by Scala Arts Publishers, $50

Ceramic Artist on Creative Processes by Miguel Ángel Pérez Arteaga

In this book, 25 ceramic artists from around the world describe their art making methodology and practice in their own words. Richly illustrated, it offers a deep insight into the minds of professional artists.

Hardcover, 304 pages, published Fall 2023 by Hoaki, $40

Lucie Rie: The Adventure of Pottery by Andrew Nairne

Published to coincide with a UK exhibition of Rie’s work, this catalogue includes five new essays examining Rie’s work and career and includes more than 150 images in full color.

Hardcover, 240 pages, published September 2023 by Kettle’s Yard, $45

Beginner’s Guide to Decorating Pottery by Emily Reinhardt

A thorough guide for beginners, this book covers glazes, inlay and surface decoration, lusters, patterns and mark making, and more in an easy-to-follow format. Part of a series of beginner’s guides to ceramics.

Paperback, 160 pages, published September 2023 by The Quarry Books, $25

Kate Malone: A Life in Clay by Emma Crichton-Miller

One of the UK’s leading ceramic artists, this monograph examines the work and career of Kate Malone, born 1959. With essays, color photographs and more, this book will be sure to delight fans of Malone’s work and others, who may have seen Malone as a judge on the Great Pottery Throwdown.

Hardcover, 252 pages, published by Skira, December 2023, $60.


Colors of Kyoto: The Seifū Yohei Ceramic Studio by Shinya Maezaki

This book takes a deep and comprehensive look, for the first time in English, at the Kyoto studio of Seifū Yohei, who was the first ceramist to be named an Imperial Household Artist. The book includes essays and images of 100 artworks, as well as discussion of technique, forms, and glazes that were unique to the studio.

Paperback, 216 pages, published September 2023 by Giles, $30


Promise Me The Earth by Kristin Morgin

This monograph examines Los Angeles artist Kristin Morgin who makes unfired sculptures from a mixture of clay, glue, wood and other materials. Known for her wit, craftsmanship, and ability to twist pop art to her own ends, this book includes a lengthy interview with the artist as well as numerous illustrations. Each copy is signed by the artist and includes a small drawing.

Hardcover, 120 pages, published Marc Selwyn FIne Art, late 2022, $60.

Earth & Fire: Modern Ceramicists, Their Tools, Techniques, and Practice by Kylie Johnson and Tiffany Johnson

Earth & Fire explores the techniques and practices of 45 ceramic artists, ranging from potters to sculptors to jewelers and more. The book includes more than 300 color photos and illustrations, illuminating a wide variety of ceramic techniques.

Hardcover, 272 pages, published by Thames and Hudson, September 2023, $50

Ash Glazes: Techniques and Glazing from Natural Sources by Phil Rogers and Hajeong Lee Rogers

Updated and edited by Hajeong Lee Rogers, this classic by Phil Rogers explores the history of ash glazes, how to test and mix the, and how to apply them to get the best results. With images of potters who use ash glazes from around the world, this new edition provides inspiration for ceramic artists interested in exploring and reinventing this age-old tradition.

Hardcover, 192 pages, published October 2023 by Herbert Press, $40

Nina Fránková: Hollow by Nina Fránková

The first monograph on the Czech artist, who was born in 1987, the book includes numerous images and five essays.

Paperback, 160 pages, published fall 2023 by Onomatopee Projects, $18

Ceramics in America 2023 edited by Robert Hunter

The latest edition of the yearly journal, the 2023 edition includes essays on backwoods North Carolina potter John Wesley Carpenter, contemporary artist David Mack, a snuff box made in London in the 18th century from American clay, and more. Richly illustrated throughout.

Hardcover, 240 pages, published Fall 2023 by the Chipstone Foundation, $65

Roger Capron: Céramiste by Pierre Staudenmeyer

(Book is in French) A vastly expanded reprint of a 2003 monograph that examines the life and career of French ceramic sculptor and ceramic manufacturer Roger Capron, 1922–2006. This richly illustrated edition includes text by Pierre Staudenmeyer and an interview between Capron’s wife Jacotte Capron and Flavien Gaillard.

Hardcover, 208 pages, published October 2023 by Editions Norma, $60 (French language edition)

Are there any recently published ceramic books that we missed? Let us know in the comments.

For more books, check out these posts from last year:

Best Pottery Technique Books 2022

Best Ceramic History Books and Monographs 2022

Table Top Pottery Wheel Buyer's Guide 2023

A lightweight, compact pottery wheel can be a great option for throwing small to medium sized pots, and are priced more economically priced than full-size wheels, generally in the $300 to $550 range. Table top wheels are especially great for at home use, occasional classroom use, or if you have a small working space and need to take your wheel out and put it away.

You can get great results with table top wheels, but there are trade-offs in power and other options found in full-size wheels. If portability isn’t your biggest concern, there are also larger wheels that can be used on table tops, and these will be covered below

This guide will cover portable / table top pottery wheels and also review a few of the super affordable “budget” wheels that are lightweight and can be moved around.

The Speedball Artista table top wheel.

The Speedball Artista table top wheel.

Top Pick: Speedball Artista

The Speedball Artista is our top pick for a table top wheel. With an 11 inch wheel head, it’s almost as big as a full size wheel (usually they have 12 to 14 inch wheel heads) and with a 1/3 horsepower motor, it has enough power for small to medium size pots. And it’s light! The wheel weighs in at just 26 pounds.

The Speedball line of wheels. At right is the Artista with the optional leg and foot pedal attachments.

The Speedball line of wheels. At right is the Artista with the optional leg and foot pedal attachments.

The Artista wheel head has standard 10” bat pin spacing, a hand-controlled speed lever, and a variety of add ons such as a foot pedal and static or folding legs. The wheel comes with a 2 year warranty, and is available in right or left handed models. It typically retails for $549.

The optional legs and foot pedal will add about another $200 to $300 to the total cost, giving you basically a full size pottery wheel. Being able to store all these pieces is great, but if you are thinking of getting all the add ons, you might also look into the full size Nidec Shimpo VL-Lite pottery wheel for $858. But if you need something that you can move around, put away when not in use, and set up in a variety of places, then the Speedball Artista is great option. It’s also a great wheel for kids, hobbyists, or something that you can add to the corner of a classroom or home studio.


For more on portable and table top wheels, please keep reading below.

Table of Contents

  1. Speedball Artist Portable Wheel

  2. Shimpo Aspire Portable Wheel

  3. Shimpo VL-Whisper

  4. U.S. Art Supply Table Top Wheel

  5. Other Lightweight Wheels

  6. Comparison Chart

  7. Summary

Nidec-Shimpo Aspire Table Top Wheel

The Shimpo Aspire table top wheel.

The Shimpo Aspire table top wheel, pictured here with the hand lever.

The Shimpo Aspire pictured with the optional foot pedal.

The Shimpo Aspire pictured with the optional foot pedal.

The Aspire is Nidec-Shimpo’s table top option, with a 1/3 horse power, belt-driven 7 inch wheel head. It is rated to a 20 lb centering capacity, and the wheel has a max speed of 230 rpm via the hand lever, and up to 250 rpm if controlled by the optional foot pedal. The whole unit weighs 31 lbs, making it relatively easy to put away on a shelf or closet when not in use.

The main drawback of the Aspire is that it has a small, 7 inch wheel head. There are a variety of bats and attachments designed for this wheel, but overall it feels more like a toy while the Speedball Artista feels like a portable version of a professional wheel.

The Aspire costs about the same as the Speedball Artista, generally around $569 for the hand lever option or more if you choose to add a foot pedal. The Aspire does not have optional legs.

Overall, this is a quality machine that might be the right wheel for your situation, but it is on the small side.

Shimpo VL-Whisper

With the legs removed, the Shimpo VL-Whisper makes a great table top wheel.

With the legs removed, the Shimpo VL-Whisper makes a great table top wheel.

The Shimpo VL-Whisper is our top-rated full-size wheel and is also a great option for table top use. While not exactly “portable” due to the weight, it has a flat design that can sit on a table top when the legs are removed. If you want a table-top or standing wheel with all the bells and whistles of a top-of-the-line wheel, this is a great option.

Rather than a motor and belt, the VL-Whisper is driven by a virtually silent series of magnets that spin the wheel.

Rather than a motor and belt, the VL-Whisper is driven by a virtually silent series of magnets that spin the wheel.

The VL-Whisper (VL stands for velocity) has a 1/2 horse power motor, a 14” wheel head, a reversible switch, and can center up to 100 lbs. At around 135 lbs, it is heavy, but it’s a sturdy machine with the quietest motor on the market. It has a unique magnet-driven wheel which is virtually silent and is the reason it can sit flat as there is no traditional motor hanging below the wheel head. At a typically price of $1517, it hits that sweet spot of great performance and options, while being in about the middle of the price range for full size wheels.

But once again, the decision is do you need a lightweight, portable wheel or a heavier but still great table top wheel.

U.S. Art Supply Table Top Wheel

US Art table top wheel.jpg

Another option is the U.S. Art Supply 3/4 HP Table Top pottery wheel. It is sort of a hybrid of the Shimpo Aspire and Speedball Artista as it is a total unit that weighs around 43 pounds and it has an 11” wheelhead with a proprietary 3-pin bats,. It can go forward and reverse, tops out at 300 rpm, has a foot pedal, and retails for $600.

The reviews on this wheel are really mixed. Some people love it and have had great success, recommending it for beginners or intermediate potters. Some say it wobbles but others describe it as quite sturdy. In general, everyone agrees that the splash pan is not the best. With a one-year warranty, I can only recommend this wheel with reservations. For the price, I would go with the Speedball Artista. For around $200 more, you could get a full-size wheel such as the motor-driven Shimpo VL-Lite. But if you are looking for a table top wheel, definitely check this one out.

Other Lightweight Wheel Options

In recent years, a number of very affordable wheels in the $120 to $300 range have popped up on Amazon and other places. A variety of pottery influencers have reviewed these wheels on YouTube and found them ok for very small pots, and I can attest that some of my students have tried them and liked them. But if you go this route be aware that there are some limitations, including very limited service and support if anything breaks, weak motors, small wheel heads, and no holes for bat pins if you want to start throwing more adventurous or wider forms. But, I get that many want to try out pottery at a budget price so here are a few models. Do your research as many of these are available in a variety of permutations and generic options online.:

Vevor 11 inch pottery wheel

White Vevor pottery wheel

At $138, this little nugget of a wheel seems to be about the absolute cheapest you can go. It’s got an 11 inch wheel head and the legs are about 8 inches tall, along with a small foot pedal. In total, it weighs around 40 pounds.

With a wheel like this, you can throw up to 5 pounds of clay but there are tons of things you can make with just a pound or two of clay. If you want to try out wheel throwing, this might be the most entry level you can go. Just don’t expect it to last too long under heavy use.

VivoHome 28 cm / 11 inch Wheel

The VivoHome 28 cm wheel and tool kit.

Another budget option is the VivoHome 28 cm wheel. Rather than 3 legs, it has a boxy unit feel along with a detachable foot pedal. I am recommending this one because while the unit is so small and low, the detachable foot pedal will allow you to raise the wheel a bit (with blocks?) while keeping the foot pedal on the floor. The models with the attached foot pedal look too small for an adult to use.

This Vivo Home wheel weighs almost 28 pounds and retails for $189 but it does come with a variety of tools.

Table Top Pottery Wheel Comparison Chart

Below is a chart with all the wheels mentioned in this post.

Table Top Pottery Wheels

Click the model name to shop at Dick Blick or Amazon.
Model Typical Price Motor (HP) Wheelhead
Diameter		 Bat Pin
Diameter		 Reversible Dimensions Weight Speed (RPM) Warranty Capacity
Speedball Artista $549 1/3 HP 11" 10" No, but available as R or L handed 24 x 18 x 9" 26 lbs 0-220 2 years 25 lbs
Shimpo Aspire $569 1/3 HP 7" 6" No 14.5 x 20 x 9" 31 lbs 0-230 hand, 0-250 foot pedal 5 years 20 lbs
US Art Table Top $600 3/4 HP 11" Custom 3 pin design Yes, switch 17 x 26 x 13" 42.3 lbs 0-300 1 year 25 lbs
VL-Whisper $1,517 1/2 HP, 400w 14" 10" Yes, switch 23.2 x 27.5 x 22.75" 122 lbs 0-250 5 years 100 lbs

For a comparison of all types of wheels including full size wheels, click here.

And for our buyer’s guide to full-size wheels, click here. 

Summary

Table top pottery wheels are great options for a wide variety of potters. This post has covered a variety of portable and table top wheel options, with our top pick being the Speedball Artista wheel for it’s full size wheel head and ability to go from a comfortable sitting down wheel, to table top, to being packed away on the shelf.

But there are other options out there to suit every type of potter and studio. What table top pottery wheels do you prefer? Let us know in the comments.

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