The Best Full-Size Slab Rollers for Ceramic Studios

 
Bailey DRD / II ceramic slab roller machine

The Bailey DRD / II gear reduction slab roller pictured here with the shorter 51” table.

 

Slab rollers are great for slab-built pottery, tiles, and sculptures. While you might be able to get by with a rolling pin, if you use slabs regularly, a slab roller should be an integral part of your studio And while full-size slab rollers can take up a chunk of space, having the ability to easily make slabs is worth it.

This post covers all the full-size slab rollers on the market from five manufacturers: Bailey, Nidec Shimpo, North Star, Brent, and the Hi Roller. For a guide to smaller portable or table top slab rollers, click here.

Top Pick: Bailey DRD / II Gear Reduction models

Bailey DRD / II slab roller with 69 inch table

The 24 inch wide Bailey DRD / II slab roller pictured here with the 69” table. Note the two wheels for ease of moving the table.

The Bailey DRD / II slab rollers with the gear reduction feature are the best slab rollers on the market. These slab rollers are a joy to use, can quickly take up to 2 inches of clay down to an even slab, and are extremely durable and long lasting, suitable for a professional, academic, or personal studio.

The machine features steel rollers, a large 34” wagon wheel handle for easy turning, and one adjustment knob that raises and lowers the top roller. The slab roller can be adjusted from an ultra-thin 1/16” up to 1 1/2” .

This machine feature a reverse-thread handle adapter to prevent damage to the machine, but be careful—what this means in practice is that you can unscrew the wagon wheel handle and it will fall off. (Make sure students are trained on this machine.) On the shorter 51” table, the 34” handle is quite large but it is easy to use and turn, even with large amounts of clay.

The only other (small) drawback is that if one is not careful, canvas can be pulled under the feed table and ends up wrapping around the bottom roller. But once one is accustomed to the roller, it becomes second nature to avoid this.

Bailey makes a few different rollers, but the DRD / II gear reduction models are what you want. The cost about $100 extra for the gear reduction but they are simply the best slab roller on the market.

The Bailey DRD / II gear reduction models are available in a 24” width as a machine only ($1,380), with a 51” table ($1,780), or a 69” table ($1,999). The 30” models have the same option and generally cost about $200 more.

Budget Pick: Nidec Shimpo SR-3050 Slab Roller

Nidec Shimpo ceramic slab roller machine

The Nidec-Shimpo Slab Roller

The Nidec-Shimpo SR-3050 slab roller is a studio workhorse that will turn out great slabs. It features a double roller that sits in the middle of a 30 x 50 inch table with a wagon-wheel handle. Slab thicknesses can range from an ultra-thin 0.1” up to 3 inches, and the top roller is adjusted by moving the two handles.

Adjusting the two rollers can be a bit annoying and the table is somewhat small, but all things considered, this is a great roller that is listed around $1,100 and often can be found for around $900. The short feed area can be fixed by adding a wing or placing the machine next to another table.

The Bailey DRD II and the Shimpo slab roller are just two of many full-sized slab rollers on the market. Keep reading for a complete guide, or click here to read about small and portable table top rollers.

Table of Contents

  1. Top Pick: Bailey DRD / II Gear Reduction Roller

  2. Budget Pick: Shimpo Slab Roller

  3. How to Shop For a Slab Roller

  4. North Star Slab Rollers

  5. The Hi Roller Vertical Slab Roller

  6. All Bailey Slab Rollers

  7. Brent Slab Rollers

  8. Slab Accessories

  9. Summary

How To Shop For A Slab Roller

It can be confusing to shop for a slab roller, as Bailey and North Star in particular make a variety of slab rollers that can be ordered with a variety of table sizes and features. Here’s a guide of how to shop and pick out rollers.

1. Start With Roller Width

Full size table top rollers range from 24 to 40 inches wide. In practice, your widest slab will probably be about 2 inches less than that. Even a 22 inch wide slab can be quite large! But if you are doing large tile projects, the 30 or 40 inch models will be needed. For an individual studio, a 24 inch roller might be quite large—maybe a table top roller is what you need.

2. Table Size

The important considerations here are the size of the table where you feed in the clay, the size of the “output” area, and the total size of the table. In addition to width, the table size will determine how long of a slab you can make. Once again, I’d suggest that a 22” wide slab by say 24” long is quite large! But if you have a larger table, you have more working area.

Shimpo, Brent, and the Hi Roller machines come in one size. But Bailey and North Star let you choose the table size. With Bailey it’s a 51” or 69” long table, and North Star options are 48” or 72” inches, and North Star also sells prop-up “wings” that extend the table. With Bailey and North Star, you can also buy the machine only and build your own table.

With any roller, measure the complete table and make sure it is suitable for your studio.

3. Rollers

Most high-quality rollers have a double roller. This will give your slab pressure from both sides, and results in a more even slab. Brent Rollers just have a roller on one side, which along with the heaviness of the table is why we don’t recommend Brent rollers.

4. Handle / Crank Mechanism

Most of these large rollers come with a wagon wheel handle, but some have a crank. A wagon wheel makes it easy to turn, but does take up more room. Consider the Bailey rollers with the short table: a 34” wide wagon wheel handle is paired with a 51” table. It’s a bit crowded. Smaller table top rollers generally have a crank rather than a wagon wheel.

5. Gear Reduction / Safety Mechanisms

Any slab roller should be treated with respect and they can be damaged if they are turned the wrong way or too much clay is forced through the rollers. Bailey makes a gear-reduction model that is even easier to turn, and also has a reverse-threaded wagon wheel so that you can’t turn the gears the “wrong” way and damage the machine.

6. Durability

All of the machines reviewed here are well built and will be long lasting if not abused. In my experience, the Bailey, Shimpo, and North Star machines hold up best under intense use in academic or community studios. The Hi Roller is fussy but can make nice albeit small slabs. The Brent rollers are extremely heavy and basically bomb proof welded steel, but if the shims get wet they can warp and the wires can snap if used improperly. So many academic studios have Brent rollers but the other four manufacturers make machines that are simpler, lighter, and easier to maintain.

North Star Slab Rollers

The North Star 30 inch wide Super Roller with table.

North Star makes two styles of slab rollers: the “standard” line has crank-driven 2 1/2” double rollers available in 18”, 24”, and 30” width as machine only, table-top portarollers, or in 48” long tables. (Our top pick for a portable roller is the 18” Portaroller from the North Star standard series.) The two larger rollers in the standard line can also be ordered with wagon wheel handles.

The “super” series features wagon-wheel driven 4” wide double rollers with a gear reduction in 24”, 30”, or 36” width in 72” long tables. If you are a production shop or a busy academic studio, the Super series is what you want, whereas the standard line is great for individual studios.

North Star also makes a variety of accessories, such as fold-out wings to extend the length of tables, and extra shelves for the roller table.

These are great rollers. The only drawback compared to the Bailey DRD / II models is that North Star has two height adjustment knobs, rather than one that moves the entire top roller. North Star mentions that this makes “tapered slabs” possible, but truth be told, that’s a concept I’ve only heard mentioned in their marketing copy.

North Star Standard rollers range from around $1100 to $1200 for a roller and table.
Super series rollers start at around $1500 for the 24” roller and table, and go up to $2355 for the 36” roller and table. All the models are available for less as machine only, if you want to build your own table.

The Hi Roller Vertical Slab Roller

The Hi Roller vertical clay slab roller machine

The Hi Roller Vertical Slab roller is a space-saving machine that is easy to crank.

The Hi Roller is an interesting entry for the full size slab roller because it can be wall mounted or stand on its own, taking up very little space while providing great (if somewhat small) slabs. The rollers can be adjusted easily with a dial, clay is placed near the rollers, and a small crank easily moves the clay down between two pieces of canvas. Then, the clay is cranked back up, often sticking just enough to the canvas until you remove it.

This all sounds great, but in practice, this is a fussy machine. Sometimes the clay drops below the rollers and won’t come back up, and it’s hard to make large slabs. So there is some trade off but if floor space is a premium in your studio, this is the roller for you.

The Hi Roller is generally available for around $1,450-$1,500.

Bailey Slab Rollers

Bailey makes a somewhat confusing array of slab rollers so hopefully this outline of their product line will help.

The Bailey 40” DB Drive Board roller with electric motor.

The DRD / II slab roller from Bailey is the top pick for a slab roller (see top of post) and is available in a 24” or 30” model in either direct drive or gear reduction models. It’s worth the extra $100 for the gear reduction—why not make it easier to crank out slabs? The DRD / II models have 2 1/2 inch diameter rollers.

The original DRD model is still in production, and is available in 30” or 40” width. The DRD features 4” diameter rollers, designed for professional studios or heavy use by academic studios. These are amazing, big rollers. They are also available with electric motors.

Finally, Bailey also makes the DB or Drive Board rollers in 30” or 40” widths. These machines have a single roller on top and a drive board that travels with the slab, allowing for more even compression and protecting the slab from bunching or bogging down in the machine. These are best for tile and architectural tile work.

Brent Slab Rollers

Brent SR-30 Slab Roller

The Brent SR-30 Slab Roller

Brent makes three slab rollers with a wagon wheel (the SR-14, SR-20, and SR-30) and one model (the SRC) with a crank handle. All are rather overbuilt with heavy steel bases, and single wheels that move over the top of the slabs, and have wires underneath the roller table covered in sticky grease. The slab thickness is adjusted by adding or removing canvas-covered shims.

These slab rollers are quite common but I would avoid them whether new or used. Here’s why:

> Adding or taking out shims is a pain. Also, this process generally results in a lot of dust being created.

> Single roller, only pressure from the top rather than a double roller.

> Heavy. So heavy. You’ll need a forklift or about 6 people to move these. They are unnecessarily heavy.

> Hard to maintain. Have fun repairing the guide/crank wire when it snaps! (Misuse by students can easily break this wire)

> Warped shims: I once used a Brent roller that had water damage and all the shims were warped, resulting in uneven slabs.

And finally, expensive. All that metal costs money. These rollers ranged from $2,000 up to $3,700. Sure, if properly maintained and used you will get fine slabs, especially if you never change the slab thickness. But any other machine will be better.

Slab Accessories

A few things that will make working with slabs easier:

Slab Mats

Slab mat

Slab mats are available in a variety of sizes and are great for rolling slabs or handbuilding.

Slab Mats are a plastic fabric with one side smooth and the “working” side has a bit of a fuzz. They are less flexible than canvas, but are also great for putting through rollers, moving slabs around, or just as a working surface to protect your table tops. Most normal clay uses (fettling knives, craft knives, needle tools, etc) won’t cut through these. Small sizes can also be used as small bats for handbuilding, or get a larger piece to run through your roller.

Canvas

Unprimed, raw canvas is a great working surface that can be laundered.

For slabs, unprimed canvas is also great for rolling and moving around the studio. With a canvas blanket, you can cut to your desired shape and either hem or leave the edges unhemmed. Canvas can be washed over and over again by hand or in the washing machine. Frequent washing will help keep the dust down, and does soften the material over time. #12 / 12 oz canvas is a great place to start, or go slightly thicker with #10 / 15oz canvas.

Rolling Pin

Solid maple rolling pin

A solid maple rolling pin is a useful studio tool that is easy to clean.

A solid maple rolling pin is a must-have for any ceramic studio, even if you have a slab roller. For small things, it’s usually easier to roll by hand. Pair this with a few wooden slats or yard sticks, and you’ve got an adjustable slab rolling system.

A solid rolling pin is better than a rolling pin with bearings or moving parts, because there is nothing to break and it is easy to clean the entire rolling pin with water. Rolling pins come in a variety of sizes but a 24” wide rolling pin is still easy to maneuver but large enough to make really big slabs. At around $30, this is an affordable studio tool that will last forever.

Summary

This post has covered every large or full-size slab roller on the market, including models from Bailey, North Star, Nidec-Shimpo, Hi Roller, and Brent.

The top pick is the DRD/II gear reduction slab roller from Bailey, but there are lots of options for a wide variety of budgets. All of these rollers, if properly used, will make great slabs but there are some superior options (Bailey, Shimpo, North Star) based on price, weight, and quality of features.

What slab roller do you use in your studio? Let us know in the comments.

Gift Guide for Artists who Paint and Draw

This guide has more than 30 ideas for artists who paint, draw, and create. Most suggestions are priced between $25 and $100, along with a few higher ticket items. There are plenty of ideas for the painter or artist in your life, or perhaps you’ll find a gift for yourself. In general, this guide focuses on high-quality art supplies, equipment, and books.

Note: This site uses affiliate links for sites such as Amazon and Blick. If you click the links and complete a purchase, we may receive a percentage at no extra cost to you.

Blick Noir French Easel

The Blick Noir French Easel.

The Blick Noir French Easel.

Perfect for in the studio or on the go, this black French-style wooden easel from Blick is stylish, functional, and a great deal. The easel combines a sketchbox, easel, and canvas carrier into one unit. Folded, it measures a compact 22 x 16 x 6.5 inches, and it can extend up to 73” tall and accommodate canvases up to 34” tall. It weighs about 10 lbs. This is a great easel for someone setting up an at-home studio and can be carried or folded down for painting in plein air. It retails for around $100.

Golden A-Z Acrylic Explorers Kit

The Golden A-Z Acrylic Explorer Kit.

The Golden A-Z Acrylic Explorer Kit.

This popular set introduces artists to a variety of products Golden Acrylics—the company bills it as a workshop in a box and it basically is. It includes heavy body (i.e. thick) acrylics, fluid acrylics, high flow acrylics as well as pastes, gels and mediums. It’s a great intro to Golden’s high quality product line, and can really expand an artist’s skill set. The kit retails for around $28 and includes 4 tubes of paint, 5 small bottles of paint, 4 tubes of different mediums and a bottle of clear painting medium.

Aquabee Super Deluxe Sketchbook

The Aquabee Super Deluxe Sketchbook.

The Aquabee Super Deluxe Sketchbook.

The Aquabee Super Deluxe Sketchbook from Bee Paper is a favorite mixed media pad that came out on top in our recent review of mixed media pads. It can do everything from light watercolor to ink to marker, colored pencil, and anything else. The sketchbooks are available in a variety of sizes (9x12” is a great option) and has a stiff cardboard back and a leatherette cover with a wire binding for easy turning of pages. The 93 lb / 150 gsm paper is light cream color and is a pleasure to use, and the books range from 6x4 inches to 14x17 inches, with 50 or 60 pages per book.

Williamsburg Oil Paint Sets

The Williamsburg Oil Paint Signature Series has 9 colors in 11 ml tubes.

The Williamsburg Oil Paint Signature Series has 9 colors in 11 ml tubes.

Williamsburg is known for its intensely pigmented, handmade oil paints that are the favorite paints of many professional artists. Available individually or in a variety of sets, try the Signature Series set of 9 for an introduction to these wonderful oil paints. An oil painter will appreciate this, or any set of the high quality Williamsburg paints. The Signature Series set has 9 tubes with 11 ml of paint each, or about 1/3 of an ounce.

The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron

The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron

The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron

This classic, first published almost 30 years ago, helps artists, writers, and creative types unlock their full potential. Through a series of exercises, such as a letter to yourself and the famous “morning pages” of free writing (visual artists can just substitute sketching) everyone can discover their creative path in an open-ended way that accommodates everyone. At times a bit new age-y, this book is still worth a read for the ideas and exercises. The book grew out of a series of workshops that Cameron ran, and the book feels like you are in the room with Cameron’s gentle but insistent guidance.

Faber-Castell 9000 Series Drawing Set

Faber-Castell 9000 Series Drawing Set.

Faber-Castell 9000 Series Drawing Set.

Faber-Castell makes some of the best pencils and is the choice of professionals and serious artists. It’s easy to just reach for the signature green pencils first. This set of 12 pencils from F-C’s signature 9000 series has one pencil each ranging from the soft and dark 8B up to 2H. There’s also a set for designers that ranges from 5B to 5H. The sets come in a hinged metal tin or a soft bag and usually retail for around $15-$20. This is the perfect set for anyone who loves to draw. Pair it with a sketchbook and a sharpener for a perfect gift.

Tote Bag for Tools, Pencils, and Brushes

JJRing Nylon Tote Bag

JJRing Nylon Tote Bag

Every artist can use a little organizational help, and a tote bag keeps everything is at hand and easy to find. The JJRing nylon art/craft bag is has a 16 pockets, is available in eight colors, and is a great value, typically priced at $15 to $25.

Caran D’Ache Luminance Colored Pencils

The Caran D’Ache Luminance pictured here in the 20 pencil box.

The Caran D’Ache Luminance pictured here in the 20 pencil box.

The ultra-premium Luminance colored pencils are a joy to use and the entire set is 100 percent lightfast, which means that the pigments are designed to withstand UV rays. Under museum conditions, these colors will hold up for at least 100 years. The Luminance (and the Derwent Lightfast) were our top picks in a recent test of colored pencils based on the color intensity, quality, and the lightfast ratings. The Luminance also has an easy-to-use cardboard box where each pencil is inset into foam, so the pencils don’t jumble around. Prices range from a set of 20 pencils for $55 to a set of 76 pencils for around $225.

The Story of Painting: How Art Was Made

The Story of Painting: How Art Was Made from DK.

The Story of Painting: How Art Was Made from DK.

This 2019 book covers the entire 25,000 year history of painting with illustrations, texts, and guides to technique, composition, and subject matter. It’s a great overview for a beginning painter, or a wonderful reference book for the more experienced artist. The details, images, and texts make this more than just a coffee table book. It’s available in hardcover for around $25.

 
The book includes detailed examinations of numerous paintings.

The book includes detailed examinations of numerous paintings.

Utrecht Artists’ Watercolor Paint Box

The Utrecht Watercolor Box is a complete painting kit.

The Utrecht Watercolor Box is a complete painting kit.

This set has everything an artist needs to get started with watercolor painting and it’s made by Utrecht, the Brooklyn, NY company known for high quality, artist-grade paints and mediums. It comes in a beechwood box and includes a 9x12” watercolor block, four brushes, a flat knife, a needed eraser, plastic palette with 24 wells, and 18 tubes of watercolor paint. The box usually retails for around $225.

Utrecht also sells smaller sets of just watercolor paints.

Anker Soundcore Q20 Noise Cancelling Headphones

The Anker Soundcore Q20 Noise Cancelling Headphones.

The Anker Soundcore Q20 Noise Cancelling Headphones.

Over-ear noise cancelling headphones can really help you focus on your work, especially if you work in a shared or noisy environment. There are a lot of options for this type of headphone, but the Anker Soundcore Q20 strike a balance between quality and affordability, especially considering they will probably get covered in paint at some point. These headphones have an impressive 40 hour playing time, and a dynamic sound quality that while not quite audiophile level, really deliver a lot for the $50 price tag.

Liquitex Acrylic Gouache

The Liquitex Acrylic Gouache 12 color essentials kit.

The Liquitex Acrylic Gouache 12 color essentials kit.

Gouache is a type of opaque watercolor paint, and the Liquitex Acrylic Gouache is an interesting twist on this product that is really nice to use. Think of it as a matte acrylic paint that is fluid right out of the bottle and will result in a matte finish that doesn’t show brush strokes or cracks. It’s become a favorite acrylic paint of many. It’s available in small squeeze bottles—to use, just press out what you will need on a tray or palette. The colors are available individually or in a variety of sets. Try the 12 color essentials set for around $55 or the fluorescent set is also fun.

Blick Super Value Bulk Canvas Pack

The Blick Super Value Bulk Canvas Pack has 40 16x20” pre-primed canvases.

The Blick Super Value Bulk Canvas Pack has 40 16x20” pre-primed canvases.

Almost a gag gift for the extreme size, this bulk pack of 40 stretched canvases are great for anyone who paints a lot. These 16x20” canvases are pre-primed with acrylic gesso on 5/8” thick stretcher bars. At around $120, these canvases work out to about $3 each—an incredible value. And a gift like this will provide plenty of surfaces for an artist to get to work.

Winsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Paint

Winsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Paint.

Winsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Paint.

Water mixable oil paint is an interesting innovation made by a variety of manufacturers. It allows you to thin paint with water (although most companies do make some mediums as well) but more importantly, you can clean up this paint with water and soap. This makes it so much easier to keep hands, brushes, palettes, and everything clean, especially if you are painting at home. Winsor & Newtown makes a great line of water mixable oil paint called Artisan, and it’s available individually and in sets. The set of 10 colors in the smaller 0.7 ounce tubes is a great introduction to this line.

Foam Daubers

Foam daubers aka sponges on a stick.

Foam daubers aka sponges on a stick.

These sponges on a stick are a fun craft tool for artists of all ages. Variously known as spouncers, daubers, or stick sponges, these are a great way to add polka dots and round shapes to any surface. Use with acrylic, watercolor, or inks. Available in bulk packs for around $10–20, they are a great tool for any artist.

Create Dangerously: The Power and Responsibility of the Artist by Albert Camus

Create Dangerously by Albert Camus.

Create Dangerously by Albert Camus.

This 1957 speech by the Nobel Prize winner was first published as a standalone text in 2019 in this small, pocket-sized book. A call to arms for artists to participate in society, it’s an interesting read for anyone considering a career in the art or who is interested in what role artists might take in civic discourse. The paperback usually retails for $8.

Canson XL Black Drawing Pad

The Canson XL Black Drawing Sketchbook

The Canson XL Black Drawing Sketchbook

A sketchbook with black paper is a fun way to mix things up in the studio. Pair it with opaque colors from pens or pencils, and you’ve got a whole new way to approach color and design. A studio favorite is the student-grade Canson XL Black Drawing Pad. Each pad features 40 pages with 92lb black paper, with micro-perforations at the side if you want to remove a drawing for framing or other purposes. Available in 7x10” or 9x12”, expect to pay $7 to $10 for these pads. For a great gift, pair this with gel pens or colored pencils.

X-Acto Basic Knife Set and Case

The X-Acto Basic Knife Set with case.

The X-Acto Basic Knife Set with case.

Every artist needs X-Acto knives at some point, and this basic set of 3 knives and 10 replacement blades is a great introduction to the variety of blades from this venerable company. Use this for trimming watercolor paper, collages, or any art and hobby purposes, these will get used all the time. This set typically retails for around $23. Pair it with a cutting mat (see below) for a great gift.

Self-Healing Cutting Mat

Alvin Cutting Mats are one option for self-healing cutting mats.

Alvin Cutting Mats are one option for self-healing cutting mats.

Self-healing cutting mats are a great way to protect both your tables from cuts and it helps your knife blades stay sharp longer. Available from a variety of manufacturers (Alvin, Blick, Cricut, X-Acto etc) the main thing is to pick the size and color that works for your space. Traditionally available in green and black from Alvin, there are now a variety of colors and sizes. For at-home use, an 18x24” mat or 24x36” sizes are usually best, but you can go bigger or smaller. In addition to cutting, these make great surfaces for using liquid or hot glue, or for moving around drawings or paintings that are not yet dry. The larger sizes are also useful for covering tables used for drawing, painting, and crafts.

Arches Watercolor Blocks

Arches watercolor blocks come in a variety of paper thicknesses and finishes.

Arches watercolor blocks come in a variety of paper thicknesses and finishes.

Arches makes some of the best watercolor paper and watercolor blocks are a great way to try out their paper. Sealed on the side with glue, each sheet stays in place and won’t warp, and can then be cut off using a dull knife. Then the next sheet is ready to go. These come in hot and cold press in a variety of thickness. Cold press paper has a bit more texture and the mid-weight 140 lb / 300 gsm paper is a good place to start, such as an 8x10 block of 20 sheets that retails for around $33. Pair this with a high-quality set of watercolors (such as Sennilier, Utrecht, etc) and you’ve got a great gift for a watercolor artist.

Sennelier Watercolor Travel Set

Sennelier La Petite Watercolor Travel Set

Sennelier La Petite Watercolor Travel Set

Sennelier makes some of the best watercolors that are rich in hue, depth, and just enough transparency. They are a pleasure to use and when paired with a watercolor block (see above) make a great gift. This travel set includes 12 tubes of watercolor paint and a small palette for adding water. The tubes hold 10ml or .33 oz of watercolor paint, which can go a long way—especially if they are mixed with water and used wet on wet. It’s a great introduction to the Sennelier line of watercolors, and generally retails for $35-$40.

JBL Bluetooth Speaker

The JBL Flip 4 portable bluetooth speaker.

The JBL Flip 4 portable bluetooth speaker.

It’s always great to have music or podcasts in the studio, and a portable bluetooth speaker makes it easy to play anything from your phone, tablet, or laptop. The JBL Flip 4 is slightly older (meaning it’s available at a discount) but is still a great option that sounds great, is easy to pair with devices, and comes with long-lasting build quality. For something bigger and louder, check out the JBL Charge line of speakers. The JBL Flip 4 is waterproof, available in a variety of colors, and usually retails for around $90.

Studio Designs Fusion Center Drafting Table

Studio Designs Fusion Drafting Table and Stool. (Cabinet is not part of the set).

Studio Designs Fusion Drafting Table and Stool. (Cabinet is not part of the set).

Studio Designs is known for high quality but affordable studio furniture (I’ve been using the Graphix II Workstation for years) and the Fusion Center is a great introductory table and stool for artists who draw, paint, or craft. Featuring a work area that is just under 24 x 35 inches, the table can adjust from flat to a 60 degree angle. There’s also a pencil and brush rack, and a slide-out side table, giving the table an overall potential footprint of 24x48 inches, and the table is adjustable from 26.75 to 35.35 high. It’s a great first desk for the serious hobbyist or art student who is ready for their own dedicated table. It typically retails for around $125.

Daybook: The Journal of an Artist by Anne Truitt

An older edition of Daybook by Anne Truitt.

An older edition of Daybook by Anne Truitt.

This classic journal by the American sculptor has been in print continuously since it was published in the early 1980s. In it, Truitt details her daily observations about artmaking as well as her history as an artist and mother. It’s an enlightening read that ranges from the mundane, to money concerns, to the theoretical underpinnings of her works and how she made them. It’s available new and used, including a recent digital edition that includes Daybook and two more books of Truitt’s journals. For more, check out this excerpt of the book. Daybook is available in paperback for around $15.

Holbein Artist’s Gouache Set

The 12 color set of Holbein Artists’ Gouache.

The 12 color set of Holbein Artists’ Gouache.

Gouache is the opaque version of watercolors and Holbein makes some of the finest gouaches around. These professional grade paints are vibrant, dry to a matte finish, and can be thinned with water if less intensity is desired. The colors are available individually or as sets, ranging from five colors for around $30 to all 84 colors for over $700. A set of 12 or 18 colors makes a great introduction to this line of colors and in the smaller .2 ml tubes, these sets range from $44 to $53.

Pentel Pocket Brush

The Pentel Pocket Brush Pen with two refills.

The Pentel Pocket Brush Pen with two refills.

The Pentel Pocket Brush is a portable, easy-to-use, and refillable brush pen that can lay down a super-fine line or a heavier stroke. Perfect for travel and on the go ink sketches, it can also be used in the studio for finished work. It’s good for painting, cartooning, and more, and is available with gray, black, or sepia-colored ink. The brush and two refills typically retails for around $13, and refills are about $3 for a two pack. Pair this with a mixed media sketchbook (such as the Aquabee Super Deluxe Sketchbook) and you’ve got a great gift.

Alice Neel: People Come First

Alice Neel: People Come First is a 2021 monograph published by the Met Museum.

Alice Neel: People Come First is a 2021 monograph published by the Met Museum.

This 2021 monograph focuses on Neel’s history, social activism, and portraits. Published by the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and based on the blockbuster exhibition there, the hardcover book includes high-quality reproductions and essays on Neel and her work. A sense of life was in every mark that Neel made and this book is a deep look into a fascinating artist and her body of work.

Sennelier Abstract Kit

The Sennelier Abstract Acrylic Paint Kit with 8 tips.

The Sennelier Abstract Acrylic Paint Kit with 8 tips.

Sennelier Abstract acrylic paints are a new twist on painting. The paint can be squeezed out on a palette like any other paint, or try the various tips directly on these plastic pouches to squeeze paint right out of the bag. It makes the act of painting physical and immediate, and can open up a new way of working for any artist. The set includes 5 paints and 8 tips, and typically retails for around $35.

Blick Studio Black Cotton Canvas

Blick Studio Black Cotton Canvas are pre-primed and stretched and ready to paint.

Blick Studio Black Cotton Canvas are pre-primed and stretched and ready to paint.

Black primed canvases are a completely different way to approach painting, and these pre-primed and stretched cotton canvases from Blick allow you to get right to painting in acrylic or oil. Available in 5 sizes ranging from 8x10 inches to 20x24 inches, these canvases have a traditional 3/4” deep stretcher bar and are suitable for hanging or framing. Pair these with an acrylic or oil painting set for a great gift.

Golden Fluid Acrylics Set

The Golden Fluid Acrylic Set includes 10 paints.

The Golden Fluid Acrylic Set includes 10 paints.

Golden fluid acrylics are high flow, thin paints for artist that spray, brush, stain, or paint. They are highly saturated with pigment and they are almost ink-like in how they lay down and dry. They are a great way to mix things up and can be used with various mediums or thinned even further with water. The set of paints includes 10 colors in 1 oz jars and usually retails for around $42

Blick Super Value Hardbound Sketchbook

The Blick Super Value Hardbound Sketchbook two pack.

The Blick Super Value Hardbound Sketchbook two pack.

Hardbound sketchbooks are great ways to keep all your sketches, thoughts, and notes in one place and this 2 pack is simply an incredible deal. At around $12 for two sketchbooks, it’s the same price you’ll pay for one hardbound sketchbook at other stores. The 65 lb paper measures 8.5x11 inches and is smooth, white, and acid free.

Caran D’Ache Pablo and Supracolor Gift Box

The Caran D’Ache Pablo and Supracolor box set.

The Caran D’Ache Pablo and Supracolor box set.

This handsome wooden box has a full set of Caran D’Ache Pablo colored pencil and Supracolor water-mixable colored pencils. The two lines blend together easily, giving you an unlimited range of possibilities for drawing, shading, blending, and working wet. At $464, it’s quite the statement gift but it includes 180 pencils, for an average cost of $2.58 each.

Other Gift Ideas

Classes: A set of classes at a local studio or art studio can be a great gift.

Magazine Subscriptions: Magazines are great sources of ideas and inspiration.

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

What are your favorite gift ideas for artists? Let us know in the comments.

Gift Guides

Check out these posts:

Gift Guide for Potters

Gift Guide for Young Artists and Creative Kids

Sink Trap Buyer's Guide for Art Studios: For Ceramics, Sculpture, Plaster and More

A sink trap is a vital tool for keeping clay, plaster, and other heavy particles from clogging your plumbing. If you are working with these materials, don’t just assume your plumbing will be fine; be proactive and install something! This guide will cover a variety of sink traps, and touch on DIY methods.

The first step for clear drains is to keep clay, plaster, and heavy particles out in the first place.

Let me repeat: pre-clean everything to keep clay and sediment out of the sink. And never pour wet plaster down a sink.

But it’s inevitable that some particles will go down the drain, so you will need some sort of trap. Many plumbers will simply install a grease trap or other system that is more appropriate for restaurants. But do know there are a few products designed especially for clay, plaster, and other sediment, and they are much easier to use and clean than a grease trap.

The Gleco Trap System, pictured here with 64 oz jars.

The Gleco Trap System, pictured here with 64 oz jars.

TOP PICK: Gleco 64 oz System

The top pick for a sink trap is the Gleco 64 oz Sediment Trap System. The Gleco is similar to other systems with an inlet and outlet pipe and a screw-top bottles that act as a settling tank. When full, the bottles can be disposed, or cleaned and reused. But the side drain is the big extra feature with the Gleco system. This valve allows you to drain standing water before removing the bottle. This feature really help keep your sink area clean and allows you to quickly and efficiently swap out the bottles as they fill.

The clearance needed for the different size Gleco Systems.

The clearance needed for the different size Gleco Systems.

The Gleco System has five jar sizes: 19 , 32, 43, 63, and 128 oz. All the jars are interchangeable. Due to the weight of the jars as they fill, many users recommended that the two larger sizes sit on something—plan to add wood shims or support underneath the jar. You’ll also need to measure your undersink area before selecting a jar size. The minimum clearance between the floor and outlet pipe ranges from 11.5 inches to 20 inches, depending on the bottle size. You may also need to get extra plastic piping to fit the system into your sink.

For more info on keeping your pipes clean and other sediment trap systems, keep reading.

Shopping links: The Systems come with the pipes and two bottles, and replacements jars are available.

Gleco 43 oz System | Gleco 64 oz System

Gleco 32 oz jars | Gleco 64 oz jars | Gleco 128 oz / Gallon Jars

Table of Contents

  • Top Pick: Gleco Sediment Trap System

  • Buffalo Trap-Eze System

  • Keystone Metal Sink Trap

  • Rohde Sediment Tank

  • DIY Systems

  • Recommendations for keeping your sink clog-free

  • Summary

Buffalo Trap-Eze Systems

The Buffalo Trap-Eze 64 oz bottle system.

The Buffalo Trap-Eze 64 oz bottle system.

Designed for dental offices, these are also ideal solutions for pottery and craft studios. There are two basic models of this system: the 64 oz bottle system which is very similar to the Gleco system but without a side drain valve, and then a few simple bucket systems that attach to your plumbing with flexible hoses.

The Buffalo Trap-Eze 64 ounce system is a decent option, but if you were to get this style, I would choose the Gleco system.

 
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The Buffalo Trap-Eze bucket sediment trap.

But where the Buffalo Trap-Eze system really shines is the larger systems with 2, 3.5, or 5 gallon buckets. This is a super simple settling tank that connects to your existing plumbing with flexible hoses. Easier to install (and cheaper) than the Gleco system, it’s a great option that just about anyone should be able to install without too much trouble. Just make sure you have enough clearance under your sink for the buckets and for the attachment to your outlet pipe.

These buckets don’t contain baffles or separate compartments, but if you make sure to preclean all your tools and hands, these will work well to trap those fine particles that do make their way down the drain. And the full buckets can be disposed, or cleaned and reused.

Some users report problems with these leaking. Make sure to tightly seal the lid to the bucket for this system to work. If you read clay forums, many potters use these traps without any problems.

Keystone Metal Sink Trap

The Keystone Metal Sink Trap

The Keystone Metal Sink Trap

The Keystone Metal Sink Trap is a 2 gallon metal canister-style sink that also accommodates disposable liner bags. This style is somewhere in between the Buffalo Trap-Eze bucket systems and a regular grease trap. The metal fittings may be more long-lasting and durable than a plastic bucket, but you’ll also have to factor in the time of opening and cleaning. In general, if your system is easy to clean (like the Gleco) you’ll be more likely to do it often.

The Keystone Metal Sink Trap is available at a variety of ceramic suppliers.

Rohde Sedimentation Tank

The Rohde Sedimentation Tank, pictured here with the lid off.

The Rohde Sedimentation Tank, pictured here with the lid off.

Available in Europe, the Rohde Sedimentation Tank is a three-chambered plastic tub on a wheeled, stainless-steel base. It’s an ideal solution for any pottery studio, especially a busy community or academic studio. It measures 450 x 603 x 520 mm (17.7 x 24.8 x 20.5 inches). To my eye, it looks like a commercial version of many of the DIY settling tanks people make out of storage tubs and buckets. Rohde—if you are reading this, please start distributing worldwide!

DIY Sedimentation Tanks

Practically any ceramic forum has guides and instructions on how to build a DIY settling tank. While these may not be appropriate or up to code for a commercial or academic studio, these will work for home or private studios.

The basic idea is running your drain into a bucket or two for settling. These buckets are inside a larger storage tub, which has an outlet. And definitely build a small platform or casters so this can be moved for cleaning.

With the right tools, parts, and caulk, anyone can build a system like this. However, it might be easier to just order something like the Gleco or Buffalo trap system…but you’ll know what is right for your studio. Personally, I use a trap system along with extra-careful pre-cleaning (read below) and never have a problem.

Click here for a great guide to a DIY sediment trap system.

Clean Up Tips and Tricks

With just a bit of planning, you will never have a problem with your sinks or drains clogging from clay or other heavy particles. The solution: pre-clean buckets. Make it a goal to never have clay chunks come anywhere near your sink!

The Three Bucket System

A prewash bucket or three will give you plenty of space to wash and clean clay tools, splash pans, and dirty hands before using the sink. For an individual studio, this can be a simple tub or 5 gallon bucket. For a busy studio, it could be a trash can full of water. Or try a “three bucket system” where you progressively move from dirty to clean water. With a system like this, you might not even need to use the sink except to rinse off your hands. It is also very efficient, as the dirty water is constantly reused, which is definitely a concern for any area affected by drought.

The Carlisle Bronco 32 Gallon Waste Container, an ideal size for pre-cleaning.

The Carlisle Bronco 32 Gallon Waste Container, an ideal size for pre-cleaning.

In a personal studio, I still prefer to use a big, wide trash can of water as that allows me to dip splash pans and other large tools in the water for pre-cleaning. If this bucket gets smelly, use the method described here for sanitizing.

My favorite option for clean up is the Carlisle Bronco 32 Gallon Waste Container. It’s tall enough that you don’t have to bend over to clean, and it’s not super huge like a 44 gallon. You can also get a wheeled caster dolly, which makes it easy to move around the studio. These cans are the same style as the older Rubbermaids, and they are thicker walled and stronger than the current models of Rubbermaid waste containers.

A drain cover / strainer will help catch large chunks.

A drain cover / strainer will help catch large chunks.

Sink Strainer

Your final defense before your trap is some sort of sink strainer. Get the size that fits your drain. This will keep any chunks of clay or bits of hard plaster from going down the drain.

The 4 pack pictured here should cover most sink sizes.

Summary

This post has covered a variety of options for sink traps and sedimentation tanks for pottery, sculpture and craft studios, but these same systems will work in dental offices or anywhere that is using heavy particles that will sink and potentially clog pipes. The top pick is the Gleco system for it’s ease of use and innovative side valve. The Buffalo Trap-Eze system is also a great option because it is so easy to install. You can also make your own system. The main thing, though, is to follow best practices of keeping clay, plaster, and other heavy stuff out of the sink in the first place. Setting up your studio with a pre-clean bucket or trash can is an easy solution that will pay off in clean pipes and help you avoid costly plumbing bills or problems down the road.

What do you use in your studio for a sediment trap? Let us know in the comments.

Gift Guide For Potters and Ceramic Artists

The Shimpo VL Whisper, a top pick for a full sized potters wheel.

The Shimpo VL Whisper, a top pick for a full sized potters wheel.

This gift guide has more than 30 ideas of gifts for potters, ceramic artists, or anyone who works with clay. Most of these suggestions are priced between $5 and $100, along with a few higher-priced items like pottery wheels and slab rollers.

When shopping, keep in mind that most potters probably already have a basic tool kit and a few others tools. But if someone is just starting, we’ve also got a handy guide to the best tools for pottery beginners, and there are many other posts on this site with reviews of tools and books we love.

Note: This site uses affiliate links for sites such as Amazon and Blick. If you click the links and complete a purchase, we may receive a percentage at no extra cost to you.

Xiem Studio Tools BatMate

The Xiem Studio Tools BatMate.

The Xiem Studio Tools BatMate.

The BatMate from Xiem Studio Tools is a 12 or 14 inch diameter piece of synthetic fabric that can be placed in between a bat and wheel head to virtually eliminate any wobble, improving the accuracy of throwing and trimming. Many potters, however, wet the fabric and place it directly on a wheel head to use when trimming pots. At around $15, this is a tool that gets used all the time once it’s in a potter’s kit.

The Claypron

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The Claypron is a split-leg apron designed specifically for working with clay at the potter’s wheel. It’s available in a variety of colors, is made with high-quality, washable cotton, and is one of the most popular aprons in ceramic studios. It has ties at the neck and waist, and generally retails for around $35.

Weleda Skin Food

Weleda Skin Food is a luxurious, extra-thick cream.

Weleda Skin Food is a luxurious, extra-thick cream.

Pottery and clay can be hard on hands and any potter will appreciate the gift of nice lotion. A favorite everyday cream is 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. It usually costs around $17–19 for a 2.5 oz tube.

Potter’s Skin Butter

Potters Skin Butter hand cream jar

Potter’s Skin Butter from Cara Mae Skincare is deep hydration for hardworking hands. Made by a potter for potters, this is a great gift. Available in Tangerine, Lavender, Mint and Unscented in a variety of sizes.

Cara Mae Skincare has other lotions as well, all equally great.

10,000 Years of Pottery by Emmanuel Cooper

The 4th edition of 10,000 Years of Pottery

The 4th edition of 10,000 Years of Pottery

This lavishly illustrated book is a great addition to any potter’s bookshelf and will provide years of inspiration. It’s 360 pages long and there are full-color pictures on almost every page. Tracing the history of ceramics from the Ancient Near East through contemporary times, the book covers all parts of the globe along with the arts and crafts movement, ceramics and industry, studio ceramics, and more. Originally published in 1972, the book has been updated continuously since. The most recent 4th edition is available as a paperback for $40.

Speedball Artista Tabletop Wheel

The Speedball Artista Wheel (top) pictured here with Speedball bats.

The Speedball Artista Wheel (top) pictured here with Speedball bats.

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. It’s usually available for $450-$500. For a complete overview, check out our guide to tabletop wheels.

Diamond Hand Polishing Block

The Stadea diamond hand polishing foam blocks.

The Stadea diamond hand polishing foam blocks.

Diamond hand pads are the perfect way to sand away burrs, small glaze drips, and rough patches on pots, sculptures, or kiln shelves and posts. Made of industrial-grade diamonds embedded in plastic, these are available from a variety of manufacturers such as Stadea as either soft, flexible pads or semi-hard foam blocks. The foam blocks are my favorite because they provide structure and support your hand, but the flexible pads are useful for sanding more complicated shapes. Available as sets or individual pads, it’s recommended to get four individual pads in the range of 50 grit, 100 grit, 200 grit, and 400 grit.

Shimpo Banding Wheels

Shimpo Banding Wheels are available in a variety of sizes.

Shimpo Banding Wheels are available in a variety of sizes.

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 $60 to about $120. For more info, read our complete review of banding wheels, but of the options on the market, there is no doubt that these are the best.

Nidec-Shimpo Handheld Extruder

The Nidec-Shimpo Handheld Extruder comes with 5 basic dies and a blank.

The Nidec-Shimpo Handheld Extruder comes with 5 basic dies and a blank.

A handheld extruder is one of the best ways to make handles or other shapes in a quick, efficient way. Basically a specialized version of a caulking gun, soft clay is inserted in the 2” wide barrel, a die is placed at the end, the cap screwed on, and you can pull the trigger and the plunger begins pushing clay through the die. You can also use hollow dies to make small forms that would be almost impossible to make by hand.

There are a variety of handheld extruders, which are all about the same, but the Nidec-Shimpo Handheld Extruder is compact and well built. The key is getting dies that work for. In addition to the basic dies, my favorite add on is the Scott Creek Handle Die kit, which should match up with any small handheld extruder. The Shimpo Handheld Extruder is usually around $60 and extra die kits generally cost around $40.

MudTools Essentials Kit

The MudTools Essentials Kit.

The MudTools Essentials Kit.

MudTools makes innovative tools such as their beloved flexible plastic ribs, and this MudTools Essential Starter Kit includes nine of their most popular tools. A great gift for beginners, experienced potters will also appreciate this kit. Included are three flexible polymer ribs, the Mudshark cutting tool, a cut-off wire with polymer handles, a long plastic scraper/rib, a sponge, the MudTools all-in-one trimming tool, and the MudTools shredder. The kit typically costs around $70.

Note: Some marketing describes this as a 10-piece kit, but I wouldn’t classify the plastic box/holder as a “tool.”

Speedball Underglaze Sample Pack

The Speedball Underglaze Sampler includes 12 colors in 2oz bottles.

The Speedball Underglaze Sampler includes 12 colors in 2oz bottles.

Speedball Underglazes are studio favorites and are great way to get vibrant, saturated colors on ceramics. They can be applied by brush, sponge, or spraying. Use alone for a matte finish, or in combination with a clear glaze for a glossy finish. Sample packs are a great way to find the underglaze colors that work best, and are available from Speedball and a variety of manufacturers. The Speedball sampler pack includes 12 colors in 2 oz bottles, and typically costs around $42.

There are a lot more underglaze options. Here are a few that are recommended:

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

Bluetooth Speaker

The JBL Flip 4 is our pick for an entry-level bluetooth speaker.

The JBL Flip 4 is our pick for an entry-level bluetooth speaker.

It’s always great to have tunes in the studio, and a portable bluetooth speaker makes it easy to play anything from your phone, tablet, or laptop. The JBL Flip 4 is slightly older (meaning it’s available at a discount) but is still a great option that sounds great, is easy to pair with devices, and comes with long-lasting build quality. For something bigger and louder, check out the JBL Charge line of speakers. The JBL Flip 4 is waterproof, available in a variety of colors, and usually retails for around $90.

Mastering Ceramics book series

Mastering the Potter's Wheel.jpg
Mastering Kilns and Firing.jpeg

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 include

Mastering the Potters 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 Handbuilding.jpeg

Mastering Kilns and Firing by Lindsay Oesterritter, published 2019

Shop at Amazon | Shop at Bookshop.org

Tote Bag for Tools

This nylon tote bag is great for ceramics, pottery, art, and craft tools.

This nylon tote bag is great for ceramics, pottery, art, and craft tools.

Potters and ceramic artists usually have a variety of tools and an open-top bag is the best way to store them. It allows tools to dry out without rusting, and provides easy access to grab what you need. The JJRing nylon art/craft bag is has a variety of pockets, is available in eight colors, and is a great value, typically priced at $15 to $25.

Revco Green Split Leg Apron

The Revco split-leg apron

The Revco split-leg apron

This green split-leg apron is popular with many potters and has a few features that make it a nice upgrade from a standard kitchen apron. Made from cotton, it has an adjustable, clip-on neck strap and it also has clips to attach the split legs to either leg. Some may prefer a longer apron (such as the Claypron) but this apron covers the thighs and the split-leg design makes it perfect for sitting at the pottery wheel. Usually available for $20 to $25, the Revco green apron is available in 36”, 42”, and 48” lengths. The 36” will work for most, or pick 42” for someone around 6’ tall.

For our complete guide to aprons, click here.

Xiem Studio Tools Precision Applicator

The 3 oz Precision Applicator from Xiem Studio Tools.

The 3 oz Precision Applicator from Xiem Studio Tools.

A great decorating tool is the Xiem precision applicator, available in 1 and 3 oz sizes. These applicators have a soft, flexible rubber bulb with a variety of screw-on metal tips. Mostly used for slip trailing and slip-decoration techniques, these bulbs can be used to apply just about any type of thicker, viscous liquid. The larger 3 oz size will be the best option for most. There are cheaper slip-trailing options that are a plastic bottle with similar metal tips, but the rubber bulb in the Xiem applicator provides steady, even pressure that is just easier to use. For around $22, this is a quality tool.

Magna Cart

The Magna Cart.

The Magna Cart.

If you work with clay, you need to move heavy stuff all the time. Whether it is boxes of clay, packaged ware for shipping, or large sculptures, the Magna Cart is an invaluable tool that folds up for efficient storage when not in use. Store it in a closet or the trunk of a car, it’s a handy tool that will get used all the time. The cart can hold 150 lbs (I’ve pushed it to 200 and that can be too much), has 5” rubber wheels, a 15” wide base and the handle can extend to 39” tall. There are a lot of folding carts on the market now in all shapes and sizes, but the classic Magna Cart is still the best option.

Azul Board Game

Azul, a tile-based strategy game for 2-4 players.

Azul, a tile-based strategy game for 2-4 players.

This tile-based strategy game is fun for the whole family, but may be particularly enjoyed by fans of Portuguese ceramic tiles or azulejos. To play Azul, tiles are selected and arranged on the game board to score points. Once a player completes a horizontal row of tiles (typically after multiple rounds or 20–40 minutes of play) points are scored and a winner crowned. It’s an award-winning game that was first released in 2017. Recommended for ages 8 and up.

An example of Azul game play.

An example of Azul game play.

Milwaukee M12 Cordless Drill

The Milwaukee M12 3/8” cordless drill kit.

The Milwaukee M12 3/8” cordless drill kit.

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 anyone. Paired with the right mixer blade, this is an ideal drill for mixing glazes, plaster, or other tasks in a ceramics studio. Quality tools are always appreciated in the studio, and a cordless drill like this just gets the job done. Milwaukee also makes a wide variety of tools that fit the M12 battery. This kit typically retails for $99.

Click here to read more on cordless drills.

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.

Carve Your Clay by Hilda Carr

Carve Your Clay by Hilda Carr

Carve Your Clay by Hilda Carr

This recently-published book gives a lot of ideas for surface decoration including carving, inlay, scraffito, wire cutting and more. With easy-to-follow instructions and great illustrations, it’s an inspirational book. Based on Hilda Carr’s signature style but with variations and ideas for every potter, the book is available in hardcover or paperback.

Giffin Grip Trimming Tool

The Giffin Grip in use. The tool comes with arms of various sizes.

The Giffin Grip in use. The tool comes with arms of various sizes.

The Giffin Grip is a trimming tool that can really upgrade a studio. It attaches to any sized pottery wheelhead, and various arms allow you to easily grip vases, tall pots, or any pot really. It sure beats trying to attach pots using small bits of a clay. It’s not cheap—typically around $250—but it lasts for ever and once a potter has one, they’ll use it all the time.

Wooden Rollers and Stamps

Set of 5 wooden texture rollers

Set of 5 wooden texture rollers

These sets of wooden rollers and stamps allow potters to quickly and easily add relief textures and patterns to slabs, pots, or any piece of clay. The wood is long-lasting, durable, easy to clean, and can really add that extra-special touch to elevate handmade work.

The set of 5 wooden texture rollers is available from a few different sellers and typically retails for around $30.

Set of 16 stamps with a storage box.

Set of 16 stamps with a storage box.

The set of 16 stamps typically retails for around $20-$23.

Shimpo VL-Whisper Pottery Wheel

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The full-sized Shimpo VL-Whisper pottery wheel is a top pick and one of the most popular wheel models on the market. Made by Nidec-Shimpo, it features an innovative magnet-driven wheelhead that is virtually silent. It also has a 14 inch wheel head, can center just about any amount of clay, and has adjustable legs. You can even remove the legs and have the wheel sit flat, converting it to a tabletop or standup wheel if desired. All around, it’s our favorite wheel and top pick in our pottery wheel buyer’s guide.

The VL-Whisper is reversible, has a detached foot pedal, and a removable splash pan. It typically retails for around $1,500 plus shipping.

Small Tools

These small tools are all great additions to any potter’s tool kit. Get one or all to make a great gift.

Kemper Clay Drill

The Kemper Clay Drill

The Kemper Clay Drill

The Kemper Clay Drill is the best way to drill holes for spouts or drain holes in planters, or just to make circular holes in any piece of clay. It makes a variety of sizes, simply keep twisting and work the tool deeper for a wider hole. It’s easy to use, easy to clean, and replaces all the other drill tools in one easy piece.

Mini Ribbon Tool Set

The Mini Ribbon Tool Set

The Mini Ribbon Tool Set

This set of 6 tools is great for detail work, decorating, and finishing a piece of pottery or a sculpture. At 5 1/2” each, the metal tools don’t take up much room but they can do a lot, especially for detail work or scraffito. For around $13, it’s a great addition to a potter’s tool kit.

Neiko Diamond Bits

Neiko diamond hole drilling bits.

Neiko diamond hole drilling bits.

Diamond bits allow you to drill through fired and glazed ceramic, and this small set from Neiko is a great introductory set. Pair it with any drill, and you are set. Just be sure to use it with plenty of water so the bits do not overheat. Ranging from 5/32” to 1/2”, the Neiko bits are a good size for tasks such as drilling cord holes in ceramic lamps or adding drainage holes for planters. At $10 or less, the Neiko bits are a cost-effective addition to any ceramic studio.

Metal Rib Set

Comiart Metal Rib Set.jpg

A variety of ribs can help a pottery easily achieve different shapes on the wheel or handbuilding. This cost-effective, affordable set of 10 ribs includes a wide variety of shapes as well as two serrated ribs that are useful for creating texture or joining clay together.

Fettling Knife

The Kemper Fettling Knife.

The Kemper Fettling Knife.

A good quality clay knife is so useful in the studio. The best option is the Kemper F97 Hard Fettling Knife. The blade is not “hard” but is just the right stiffness for cutting or turning the knife at an angle to use for smoothing or other detail work. The F96 Soft Fettling Knife has a more flexible blade that is not as useful or durable in the studio. Both Kemper knives are way better than the various generics as it the blade is attached to the handle with high quality glue. Generic fettling knives often fall apart with even the most basic use.

Anker Soundcore Q20 Noise Cancelling Headphones

Anker Soundcore.jpg

Over-ear noise cancelling headphones can really help you focus on your work, especially if you work in a shared studio environment. There are a lot of options for this type of headphone, but the Anker Soundcore Q20 strike a balance between quality and affordability, especially considering they will probably get covered in clay at some point. These headphones have an impressive 40 hour playing time, and a dynamic sound quality that while not quite audiophile level, really deliver a lot for the $50 price tag.

3M Respirator

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.

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Zebrawood Carving Tool

The P1 Zebrawood Carver from Diamond Core Tools.

The P1 Zebrawood Carver from Diamond Core Tools.

The Zebrawood Carvers from Diamond Core Tools are functional, long-lasting (replaceable blades!), and beautiful. At 5.5 inches long, they feel like a pencil and can be used for sharp, even cutting tasks such as scraffitto and other forms of decoration. Diamond Core makes these with a wide variety of cutting blades—the P1 is a great carver to start with. At $37 each, these are on the expensive side for a ceramic tool but the adjustable blade and beautiful wood makes this a great gift.

The Ceramics Reader

This book brings together texts, extracts, and other pieces of writing on the field of ceramics. Covering past and present, it’s recommended for serious hobbyists, ceramic students, professionals, or anyone that wants to read more about this amazing medium. At 616 pages long, there’s something in there for everyone. Don’t read it front to back—just flip it open and find what interests you.

Available in hardcover or paperback for around $50.

Shimpo Pottery Stool

The Shimpo Potter’s Stool

The Shimpo Potter’s Stool

The Shimpo Potter’s Stool is the most versatile, comfortable, and functional pottery stool on the market. It has four adjustable legs with nine adjustable 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.

The Shimpo Potter’s Stool measures 16 x 16 inches and ranges up to 26 inches tall. It generally costs around $90.

Solid Maple Rolling Pin

The 24” wide solid maple rolling pin.

The 24” wide solid maple rolling pin.

This solid maple rolling pin is 24” wide and 3” in diameter with handles. Pair it with a few wooden shims or rulers, and you’ve got a quick adjustable height slab roller that will make wonderful slabs. And best of all, there are no bearings, gears, or internal parts that will break down. And since it is solid, it’s easy to just wipe down and clean with a sponge. At $30, it’s a great value and is a studio tool that will last forever.

Slab Mats

Slab Mats are great working surfaces for clay.

Slab Mats are great working surfaces for clay.

Slab Mats are great working surfaces for handbuilding, can be cut up and used underneath wheelthrown pots, and are also a canvas alternative for use with slab rollers. Slab mats are a plastic kind of fabric, with one smooth side and one side that is slightly fuzzy and ideal for working with clay. You can cut with clay knives on them and not worry about damaging your table top surfaces. They are easy to clean, just wipe down with a sponge, and seem to generate much less dust than canvas. They are available in a variety of sizes but the larger 22 x 50” size really allows you to spread out.

North Star Portaroller

The North Star Portaroller.

The North Star Portaroller.

The North Star Portaroller is an amazing machine that can instantly upgrade any studio. Designed for artists who are on the go, it’s also ideal for 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 table top pieces that fit on either side of the roller. The top roller can be adjusted for slab thicknesses up to 2.5 inches. The roller 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. It typically retails for around $600.

Other Gift Ideas

Pottery Wheels

Thinking of getting a new wheel as a gift? Check out our guide to table top wheels here, and our guide to full-size wheels here.

Or maybe you were thinking of a kiln? Read our guide to Skutt kilns here.

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

Scales for glaze mixing

Accessories for glaze mixing

and tools that can be used in the kitchen or the studio.

Other Ceramic Gift Ideas:

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.

More Gift Guides

Gift Guide for Young Artist and Creative Kids

Gift Guide for Artists Who Paint and Draw

Skutt Kiln Buyers Guide for Potters and Ceramic Artists

The Skutt 1027 Kiln, our top pick for an electric top loader Skutt kiln.

The Skutt 1027 Kiln, our top pick for an electric top loader Skutt kiln.

Skutt Kilns are some of the most popular and dependable top-loading electric kilns on the market. Manufactured by Skutt in Portland, Oregon, the company has a variety of kilns to suit just about any size studio and budget. The following guide will cover all the features of current Skutt kilns, along with tips and suggestions on how to buy a kiln.

Top Pick: Skutt 1027-3 with KMT Touchscreen Controller

The Skutt 1027-3 is the top pick for a Skutt electric kiln. Featuring upgraded, 3-inch-thick bricks, it’s an efficient workhorse of a kiln that is also Skutt’s most popular model. It’s a great size for any studio, with an interior chamber measuring 22.5 inches in diameter by 27 inches tall, for a total of 6.4 cubic feet of loading area.

The kiln is small enough that an individual potter can fill it with some frequency, while it also has enough capacity for an academic or shared studio. It can easily fire to cone 10, along with mid range or low fire temperatures. And the KMT Touchscreen Controller makes for an easy and efficient user interface.

It’s a great kiln package that is listed around $4000 but can sometimes be found for as low as $3100 to $3200.

There are a lot more sizes of Skutt kilns. Keep reading for a complete buyer’s guide to Skutt kilns.

Table of Contents

  1. Top Pick: Skutt 1027

  2. Choosing a Top Loader Electric Kiln

  3. Skutt Controllers

  4. Skutt Product Number Explainer

  5. Electrical Requirements

  6. Lid Lifters

  7. Venting Options

  8. Kiln Furniture

  9. Sectional Design

  10. What To Expect with Ordering and Delivery

  11. Skutt Kiln Models

  12. Summary

Choosing a Top Loading Electric Kiln

Skutt makes a wide variety of kilns.

Skutt makes a wide variety of kilns.

Choosing an electric kiln is a big decision. You’ll want to consider power availability, the size of your studio, the size of the work that you make, and your budget. It can be a commitment: with care and proper maintenance, an electric kiln can easily last 30 years or more. But where to start? There’s a lot of options, sizes, and a confusing array of product numbers. This guide will help you understand the models in the Skutt product line.

Front Loader vs Top Loader
Electric kilns can be broken down into two main categories, front loaders and top loaders. While Skutt has occasionally made a front loader, at the time of this writing, the entire Skutt product line was top loading kilns.

Top loaders are usually smaller, have thinner walls, and generally are made in sections that allow for easier transport. Top loaders can be harder to load, although they are available in a variety of heights. Top loaders are usually the kiln of choice for home studio and for individual studios.

Front loaders are heavier and not made in sections, as the entire kiln frame needs to support the weight of the door. There are some small front loaders, but generally you will find these types of kilns in production studio or larger spaces. Front loaders can often accommodate taller firing chambers.

Electric vs Gas
Skutt only makes electric kilns, so this post won’t cover any gas kilns. But in general, think of an electric kiln as a big, insulated incandescent bulb. The inside walls of an electric kiln are lined with “elements” made from nichrome wire, i.e. nickel-chrome wire. Electricity is run through these elements at a rate determined by the controller, and over time, heat builds up inside the kiln. When properly installed, electric kilns are safe and easy to operate, and typically there is little to no odor or anything noxious coming out of the kiln.

The Skutt KilnMaster Touchscreen Controller

The Skutt KilnMaster Touchscreen Controller

Skutt Controllers

Skutt makes kilns with two types of controllers, which are both dependable and allow you to program and run the the kiln by itself. (It is always recommended that you be present when the kiln finishes firing to check that the program runs correctly.)

The KilnMaster Touchscreen Controller is the latest and greatest controller technology, featuring built-in WiFi and a free app, so that you can connect your device to the kiln and monitor the firing. The Touchscreen Controller features the same ramp and firing modes found on previous Skutt kilns, but with added features including a program library, help screens, diagnostic tools, and much more. It costs more, but this is a recommended upgrade. For an added fee, you can upgrade to a premium account with more features including text or email alerts, multiple users on one account, and more.

The KilnMaster Controller.

The KilnMaster Controller.

The KilnMaster Controller is the standard controller on Skutt kilns with a button pad and small, one-color display. This controller has the same ramp and on-board programming capabilities as the touchscreen model, but with fewer bells and whistles. It’s a sturdy, dependable controller that itself was an upgrade from the older kiln sitter models. If you currently have an older kiln sitter kiln, check and see if you can upgrade it to a computerized model.

Skutt Product Numbers

Skutt kilns are numbered based on this system, and we’ll use a KMT-1027-3-PK as our example.

  • Controller type (KM = KilnMaster, KMT = KilnMaster Touchscreen)

  • Sides of the kiln are indicated in the first one or two numbers (the 1027 is a ten-sided kiln)

  • Depth of firing chamber is indicated by the final two numbers (the 1027 is 27 inches deep)

  • Any kiln with a “3” after the kiln number is a model with the 3 inch brick upgrade as opposed to the standard 2.5 inch bricks

  • PK stands for Production Series Kilns, an upgrade in wiring gauge and other features found in four kilns models that are appropriate for extremely busy studios.

  • LF is only found on one large oval kiln, and it stands for a Low Fire only rating.

Electrical Requirements

Electric Kilns need to be properly installed and it’s best to check your power situation with an electrician before ordering a kiln so that you know exactly what type of power you have and how large of an amperage draw and breaker box you can install.

Types of Power: 208 or 240 and single phase or three phase
Generally, residential power in the United States is 240 volt and commercial and school buildings have 208 volt, and these can be available in either single phase or three phase. You’ll need to pick a kiln model that matches the power you have available as the elements and other features are fitted to match your power.

Amperage
Amperage measures the draw of electricity, and Skutt kilns range from 20 amps to 79. It’s recommended to have a breaker box with a fuse that is about 25 percent higher than that. Having an electrician check what you have available will help narrow down your choices, especially if you are considering a larger kiln. Larger kilns have bigger amperage draws that may require running new wires or breaker boxes.

NEMA outlet guide.

NEMA outlet guide.

Plug or Direct Wire
Smaller kilns will plug in and Skutt ships them with the most appropriate plug. Your electrician may need to install or change the outlet to match this plug. Larger kilns need to be “hard wired” or have wires directly connected to the power cutoff box.

Lid Lifter

Skutt 10- and 12-side kilns now come standard with a spring-loaded lid lifter.

Skutt 10- and 12-side kilns now come standard with a spring-loaded lid lifter.

All the 10- and 12-sided Skutt kilns now come standard with spring-loaded lid lifters. It makes the kilns easy to lift with two fingers and reduces the chance of slamming a lid down, which can damage the bricks. The Skutt lid lifter attaches just to the top ring, making it simple to take your kiln apart if necessary. It’s a great upgrade and if you have an older kiln, you might want to look into a lid-lifter upgrade.

Venting Options

The Skutt EnviroVent 2 consists of a spring-loaded pressure attachment at the base of the kiln, metal hose, and squirrel cage type blower.

The Skutt EnviroVent 2 consists of a spring-loaded pressure attachment at the base of the kiln, metal hose, and squirrel cage type blower.

An optional kiln vent helps remove gases while the kiln is firing and will help even out the firing temperature inside the kiln. In top loading kilns, a small hole about the diameter of a pencil is drilled in the floor of the kiln and the vent hose is mounted below this hole with a simple spring mechanism. At the end of the hose, a blower is connected to move the air towards an outlet vent. Skutt’s current vent model is the EnviroVent2. Another optional upgrade to this system is the Envirolink, which connects to the kiln controller and can be programmed to shut off when the kiln cools to a certain temperature, such as 200 degrees F.

A vent is definitely needed if your kiln is located in your house or in an enclosed studio space. If your kiln is in a semi-open space, such as a garage with the door open, you may not need a vent. Consider your space and how much airflow there is to determine if you need a vent.

Finally, some spaces may choose to install an exhaust hood above the kiln. This can really help remove excess heat from your kiln room.

Kiln Furniture

Select a furniture kit that matches the size of your kiln.

Select a furniture kit that matches the size of your kiln.

Kiln Furniture refers to the kiln shelves and posts that you will put inside your kiln. Unless you have these, you should plan to order the basic kit that comes with your kiln. Some retailers sell a kiln and furniture kit as a package, but if you are buying this separately expect to add $300 to $1,500 or more getting all the shelves and posts that you need. Think about what you fire: if you mostly make tall pots or big sculptures, you won’t need a lot of shelves. If you make shorter pieces, you’ll need more shelves to make use of the firing chamber.

Shelf size by Kiln Model

Skutt 614 9.25” x 5” half shelves, or 9.25” x 10” full shelves
Skutt 714 13” x 6.5” half round, or 13” full round
Skutt 818 15” x 8” half shelves, or 15 x 16” full
Skutt 818-3 15” x 8” half shelves, or 15” full round
Skutt 1027 22” x 10 5/8” half shelves, or 19.5” full round
Skutt 1027-3 20” x 9 7/8” half shelves, or 19.5” full round
Skutt 1227 26” x 13” half shelves
Skutt 1627 26” x 13” half shelves for ends, 13” x 16” shelves for center

Sectional Design

The Skutt 1222 picture here consists of a top lid, two rings, and a floor that all latch together. The floor sits on a metal stand to elevate the kiln.

The Skutt 1222 picture here consists of a top lid, two rings, and a floor that all latch together. The floor sits on a metal stand to elevate the kiln.

Most top loading kilns are designed to be taken apart in “rings” or sections that clamp together. This allows you to get the kiln pieces through doors and into spaces where a large front loader can’t go. When you receive your kiln, there will be instructions on how to take apart the kiln. Generally, this includes removing screws and undoing some of the wires inside the control panel. Smaller kilns may just come apart into the body and lid, while the largest kilns have separate top and bottoms, and up to 3 middle rings.

What to Expect With Ordering and Delivery

Skutt Kilns can be ordered directly from Skutt, via an online retailer, or through your local ceramic supplier. In general, the kilns will ship directly from Skutt. In the past, it was typical to wait 10 to 12 weeks for delivery, but since the Covid epidemic, production times have stretched as long as four to six months due to socially-distanced manufacturing along with increased demand for kilns. It can be a long wait but it’s worth it!

As the kilns are all basically coming straight from Skutt, it pays to shop around and find the best deal. To compare, calculate the cost of the kiln, furniture package, and cost of delivery. If you are in a building with a loading dock, any truck can deliver to you. But for a residential building, you will need a delivery truck with a lift gate, and this service may cost extra.

When the kiln is delivered, the delivery driver will take it as far as the curb, or possibly up to your garage or studio building. It will be up to you to then get it inside. Be ready with help, and/or screwdrivers, electrical pliers, and other tools to take your kiln apart if needed. Then it’s simply a matter of getting your kiln hooked up to begin firing.

Skutt Ceramic Kiln Models

This guide will cover Skutt ceramic kilns starting with the smallest sizes first. The kilns are all made with the same controllers, bricks, metal, and other high-quality parts. The difference is mostly in the size of the kiln and firing chamber. In addition to the size and model of kiln, with Skutt there is often an option for an upgraded 3 inch thick bricks in the wall. Also make sure to select the correct phase (single or three phase) and voltage (208 or 240) for your studio.

Skutt 614-3

The Skutt 614-3 pictured here with a touchscreen controller.

The Skutt 614-3 pictured here with a touchscreen controller.

The Skutt 614-3 is the only Skutt kiln that can be fired while connected to a standard household current but it will need a modified outlet for a NEMA 5-20 plug. This is a great kiln for porcelain jewelry, doll heads, or glaze tests. It’s small, but has all the same features as larger Skutt kilns including 3 inch thick bricks. It’s available with the KilnMaster (KM) or Touchscreen (KMT) controller.

Skutt 614-3
Phase: 1
Volt: 115
Amperage: 20
Recommended Breaker: 30 amp
Max Cone: 6
Chamber: 11” diameter by 13.5” deep (0.8 cubic feet)
NEMA Plug: 5-20
Outside dimensions: 17” wide plus control panel on one side
Shipping dimension: 29” x 28” x 28”
Weight: 88lbs
Typical Price: KM-614 $1243–$1640, KMT-614 $1537–1975

Skutt 714

The Skutt 714 kiln, with a 1.4 cubic foot firing chamber.

The Skutt 714 kiln, with a 1.4 cubic foot firing chamber.

The 714 model is almost the same as the 614-3, except that it has a wider diameter, seven sides as opposed to six, and only comes with the 2.5 inch thick brick. It has a larger 1.4 cubic foot firing chamber, but the same depth as the 614. Think of this as a jewelry or test kiln but on the big side.

Skutt 714
Phase: 1
Volt: 208/240
Amperage: 20
Recommended Breaker: 30 amp
Max Cone: 8
Chamber: 14.3” diameter by 13.5” deep (1.4 cubic feet)
NEMA Plug: 14-30
Outside dimensions: 20” wide with control panel on one side
Shipping dimension: 29” x 28” x 28”
Weight: 95lbs
Typical Price: KM-714 $1323–$1740, KMT-714 $1616-2075

Skutt 818

The Skutt 818 is a small studio kiln. It’s available with the standard 2.5 inch thick bricks, or an upgraded 3 inch thick brick. The 818-3 with the thicker walls has a slightly smaller firing chamber. This kiln is around 17 inches wide by 18 inches deep.

The Skutt 818 is a small studio kiln.

The Skutt 818 is a small studio kiln.

Skutt 818
Phase: 1
Volt: 208/240
Amperage: 26.7
Recommended Breaker: 40 amp
Max Cone: 10
Chamber: 17.5” diameter by 18” deep (2.6 cubic feet)
818-3: 16.5” diameter by 18” deep (2.3 cubic feet)
NEMA Plug: 6-50
Outside dimensions: 22.5” wide plus control panel on one side
Shipping dimension: 32” x 32” x 32”
Weight: 145 lbs (818-3 weighs 160 lbs)
Typical Price: KM-818 $1,586–$2,075
KMT-818 $1,882–$2,400
KM-818-3 $1,642–$2,170
KMT-818-3 $1,938-$2,495

Skutt 822

The Skutt 822 pictured here with the KMT Touchscreen controller.

The Skutt 822 pictured here with the KMT Touchscreen controller.

The Skutt 822 is another small, eight-sided studio kiln. It’s available with the standard 2.5 inch thick bricks, or an upgraded 3 inch thick brick. The diameter is the same as the 818, but this kiln has a firing chamber that is 4.5 inches taller, at 22.5 inches deep.

Skutt 822
Phase: 1
Volt: 208/240
Amperage: 33.4-38.5
Recommended Breaker: 50 amp
Max Cone: 10
Chamber: 17.5” diameter by 22.5” deep (3.2 cubic feet)
822-3: 16.5” diameter by 22.5” deep (2.9 cubic feet)
NEMA Plug: 6-50
Outside dimensions: 22.5” wide plus control panel on one side
Shipping dimension: 32” x 32” x 37”
Weight: 170 lbs (822-3 weighs 180 lbs)
Typical Price: KM-822 $1,694–$2,230
KMT-822 $2,005–$2,555
KM-822-3 $1,864–$2,330
KMT-822-3 $2,100-$2,655

Skutt 1018

The Skutt 1018 is a ten side kiln that has a firing chamber around 23 inches wide by 18 inches deep.

The Skutt 1018 is a ten side kiln that has a firing chamber around 23 inches wide by 18 inches deep.

The Skutt 1018 is wide but short kiln that is easy to load. It features a 23 inch wide firing chamber that is 18 inches deep. It’s also available with the 3 inch brick upgrade, which results in a slightly narrower firing chamber.

Skutt 1018
Phase: 1
Volt: 208/240
Amperage: 39.4-40
Recommended Breaker: 50 amp
Max Cone: 10
Chamber: 23.4” diameter by 18” deep (4.6 cubic feet)
1018-3: 22.5” diameter by 18” deep (4.2 cubic feet)
NEMA Plug: 6-50
Outside dimensions 28.5” wide with control panel on one side
Shipping dimension: 37” x 40” x 35” high
Weight: 250 lbs (1018-3 weighs 275 lbs)
Typical Price:
KM-1018 $2,216–$2,910
KMT-1018 $2,525–$3,235
KM-1018-3 $2,300–$3,020
KMT-1018-3 $2,609-$3,345

Skutt 1022

The Skutt 1022 has a 23 inch wide chamber with a depth of 22.5 inches.

The Skutt 1022 has a 23 inch wide chamber with a depth of 22.5 inches.

The Skutt 1022 is exactly the same as the 1018, but it’s 4.5 inches taller with a 22.5 inch deep firing chamber. This brings the volume to 5.7 cubic feet on the 1022, or 5.25 cubic feet on the 1022-3 model. If you love the taller 1027 but find it hard to load, the 1022 might be the best kiln for your studio. The 1022 is also the smallest Skutt kiln that is available with three phase wiring.

Skutt 1022
Phase: 1 and 3
Volt: 208/240
Amperage: 34.6-48
Recommended Breaker: 50 to 60 amp, depending on the model
Max Cone: 10
Chamber: 23.4” diameter by 22.5” deep (5.7 cubic feet)
1022-3: 22.5” diameter by 22.5” deep (5.25 cubic feet)
NEMA Plug: 6-50 for single phase, 15-50 for three phase
Outside dimensions: 28.5” wide plus control panel on one side
Shipping dimension: 37” x 40” x 41” high
Weight: 270 lbs (1022-3 weighs 298 lbs)
Typical Price: *add $150–$200 for 3 inch brick option
KM-1022 1 Phase $2,447–$3,230
KM-1022 3 Phase $2,999–$3,280
KMT-1022 1 Phase $2,776–$3,555
KMT-1022 3 Phase $2,836–$3,605

Skutt 1027

The Skutt 1027 is the company’s most popular model because of it’s ideal combination of width, height, and price.

The Skutt 1027 is the company’s most popular model because of it’s ideal combination of width, height, and price.

The Skutt 1027 is the company’s most popular model and also the top recommendation if you were to choose just one kiln. The kiln chamber is about 23 inches wide by 27 inch, for a total of 7 cubic feet of firing space (or 6.4 cubic feet for the 3 inch brick model.) This depth and width is big enough for most pots and sculptures, but not so huge that it is impossible to fill. Many busy studios rely on 1027s too, as they are quick to fire and affordable, with a few models coming in right around $3,000.

Skutt 1027
Phase: 1 and 3
Volt: 208/240
Amperage: 29.3-48
Recommended Breaker: 50 to 60 amp, depending on the model
Max Cone: 10 (note: the 208V 1 phase model can only go to cone 6)
Chamber: 23.4” diameter by 27” deep (7 cubic feet)
1027-3: 22.5” diameter by 27” deep (6.4 cubic feet)
NEMA Plug: 6-50 for single phase, 15-50 for three phase
Outside dimensions: 28.5” wide plus control panel on one side
Shipping dimension: 37” x 40” x 44” high
Weight: 290 lbs (1027-3 weighs 320 lbs)
Typical Price: *add $100 to $150 for 3 inch brick upgrade
KM-1027 1 Phase $2,687–$3,860
KM-1027 3 Phase $3,380–$3,585
KMT-1027 1 Phase $3,667–$3,860
KMT-1027 3 Phase $3,714–$3,910

Skutt 1218

The Skutt 1218-3 is a wide and low kiln with 3 inch thick walls.

The Skutt 1218-3 is a wide and low kiln with 3 inch thick walls.

Skutt makes four options for the wider 12-sided kilns, ranging from an 18 inch firing chamber depth to 31 inches. The shortest, the 1218-3, has a 28 inch opening and an 18 inch depth for a total of 6.6 cubic feet of firing space. This is almost as much as the 1027, but it will only accommodate shorter pieces. But if that works for your studio, this is much easier to load.

The 1218-3 and all the larger Skutt kilns are only available with 3 inch bricks in the walls.

Skutt 1218
Phase: 1 and 3
Volt: 208/240
Amperage: 29.3-48
Recommended Breaker: 40 to 60 amp, depending on the model
Max Cone: 10 (note: the 208V 1 phase model can only go to cone 8)
Chamber: 28” diameter by 18” deep (6.6 cubic feet)
NEMA Plug: 6-50 for single phase, 15-50 for three phase
Outside dimensions: 34” wide plus control panel on one side
Shipping dimension: 42” x 45” x 35” high
Weight: 330 lbs
Typical Price:
KM-1218 1 Phase $2,691–$3,575
KM-1218 3 Phase $3,307–$3,625
KMT-1218 1 Phase $3,705–$3,900
KMT-1218 3 Phase $3,705–$3,950

Skutt 1222

The Skutt 1222-3 is a wide, medium height kiln with a firing chamber that is 28 inches wide and 22.5 inches deep.

The Skutt 1222-3 is a wide, medium height kiln with a firing chamber that is 28 inches wide and 22.5 inches deep.

The Skutt 1222-3 is the same width as the 1218 but with a depth of 22.5 inches, for a total firing chamber of 8.1 cubic feet. Like other larger Skutt kilns, it’s only available with the thicker 3 inch thick bricks. The kiln will fire to cone 10, except for the the 208V 1 phase model, which tops out at cone 8.

Skutt 1222-3
Phase: 1 and 3
Volt: 208/240
Amperage: 34.6-48
Recommended Breaker: 50 to 60 amp, depending on the model
Max Cone: 10 (note: the 208V 1 phase model can only go to cone 8)
Chamber: 28” diameter by 22.5” deep (8.1 cubic feet)
NEMA Plug: 6-50 for single phase, 15-50 for three phase
Outside dimensions: 34” wide with control panel on one side
Shipping dimension: 42” x 45” x 41” high
Weight: 330 lbs
Typical Price:
KM-1222 1 Phase $2,922–$3,850
KM-1222 3 Phase $3,586–$3,900
KMT-1222 1 Phase $3,966–$4,175
KMT-1222 3 Phase $4,013–$4,225

Skutt 1227

The Skutt 1227 is a large barrel kiln with a 28 inch wide firing chamber that is 27 inches deep.

The Skutt 1227 is a large barrel kiln with a 28 inch wide firing chamber that is 27 inches deep.

The Skutt 1227 is a big barrel kiln that is often found in academic studios or is favored by production potters and sculptors. It’s 28 inches wide and 27 inches deep, for a total firing chamber that is 9.9 cubic feet. Like the other large Skutt kilns, it’s only available with 3 inch thick brick in the walls. There’s also an upgraded “PK” model, which stands for production kiln. These kilns have heavier gauge wires, more robust relays, and a slightly different wiring configuration. The PK models cost about $500 more, which is probably worth it if you are planning to fire the kiln more than a few times a month.

The standard 1227-3 models can be plugged in, while the PK models require a direct wire into the cutoff box. For max temperatures, these kilns have a range: the PK models can all achieve cone 10 while the regular 1227-3 are cone 8, except the 208V 1 Phase, which has a maximum temperature of cone 5.

Skutt 1227-3
Phase: 1 and 3
Volt: 208/240
Amperage: 29.3–69 (PK models have a higher amp draw)
Recommended Breaker: 40 to 90 amp, depending on the model
Max Cone: 1227-3-PK models: 10
1227-3: Cone 8, except 208V 1 phase model can only go to cone 5
Chamber: 28” diameter by 27” deep (9.9 cubic feet)
NEMA Plug: 6-50 for single phase, 15-50 for three phase, direct wire for PK models
Outside dimensions: 34” wide with control panel on one side
Shipping dimension: 42” x 45” x 44” high
Weight: 400 lbs
Typical Price:
KM-1227 1 Phase $3,166–$4,220
KM-1227 3 Phase $3,884–$4.270
KM-1227 PK models $3,639–$4,870
KMT-1227 1 Phase $3,530–$4,545
KMT-1227 3 Phase $3,530–$4,595
KMT-1227 PK models $3,596–$5,195

Skutt 1231

The Skutt 1231 is the tallest kiln in Skutt’s lineup, with a 31 inch tall firing chamber that is 28 inches wide.

The Skutt 1231 is the tallest kiln in Skutt’s lineup, with a 31 inch tall firing chamber that is 28 inches wide.

The Skutt 1231-3 is the tallest kiln in Skutt’s product line. It’s 28 inches wide with a depth of 31 inches, for an 11.6 cubic foot firing chamber. This added height is great, especially if you make sculptures or taller pots, but it can be very hard to load. Even the tallest people with longer arms may want a small step stool on the side to make it easier to load.

The 1231 comes standard with the 3 inch bricks and the “PK” production kiln upgrade of thicker gauge wires and improved relays. This kiln is most commonly found in academic and community studios, or production studios. But based on the difficulty in loading this kiln, I would advise getting a 1227 barrel,a 1627 oval, or look into front-loading options for taller kilns.

Skutt 1227-3-PK
Phase: 1 and 3
Volt: 208/240
Amperage: 46–69
Recommended Breaker: 60 to 90 amp, depending on the model
Max Cone: 10
Chamber: 28” diameter by 31” deep (11.6 cubic feet)
Connection: must be direct wired
Outside dimensions: 34” wide with control panel on one side
Shipping dimension: 42” x 45” x 49” high
Weight: 450 lbs
Typical Price:
KM-1231 1 Phase $3,639–$5,000
KM-1231 3 Phase $3,789–$5,000
KMT-1231 1 Phase $3,979–$5,325
KMT-1231 3 Phase $4,122–$5,325

Skutt 1627

The oval shaped Skutt 1627 is the largest kiln in Skutt’s product line.

The oval shaped Skutt 1627 is the largest kiln in Skutt’s product line.

The 1627 is Skutt’s largest kiln with 18.5 cubic feet in the oval firing chamber. Inside, the chamber is 30.75 wide, 46 inches long, and 27 inches deep. This is a big top loader! It’s a great option for academic or production studios, or an individual sculptor or potter with a high rate of production. It comes standard with the 3 inch bricks in the wall and the PK production kiln upgrades of heavier wires and more robust relays. The standard model is only available in 3 phase power and can fire to cone 10, while the 1627-3-PK-LF “low fire” model is available in single or three phase, but can only fire to cone 1.

The lid is lighter than you think but it still takes some strength to get it up. While lid lifters come standard on the new 10 and 12-sided kilns, in the case of the 1627 the lid lifter upgrade is only available in combination with the integrated rolling stand.

Skutt 1627-3-PK
Phase: 3 (1627-3-PK-LF is available in 1 and 3)
Volt: 208/240
Amperage: 46–69
Recommended Breaker: 60 to 90 amp, depending on the model
Max Cone: 10 (Cone 1 for LF models)
Chamber: 46” length x 30.75” wide by 27” deep (18.5 cubic feet)
Connection: must be direct wired
Outside dimensions: 36” deep by 52” wide, plus control panel on one side
Shipping dimension: 58” x 50” x 54” high
Weight: 535 lbs
Typical Price:
KM-1627 $6,259–$8,050
KMT-1627 $6,259–$8,375

Summary

This post has covered all the models, features, and accessories for Skutt ceramic kilns. These are America’s most popular kiln for a reason: they are dependable, well made, and available to fit almost any sized studio and budget. And with upgraded features like the standard lid lifter on 10 and 12-sided kilns, options such as the touchscreen controller, and Skutt’s stellar reputation for quality and customer service, you can’t go wrong with a Skutt kiln.

Any thoughts on this buyer’s guide or Skutt kilns? Let us know in the comments.

Nidec-Shimpo Pottery Wheels Buyers Guide

This page is out of date. Please visit the 2025 Nidec-Shimpo Pottery Wheels Buyers Guide.

The VL-Whisper, the flagship wheel in the Nidec-Shimpo line and one of the best wheels on the market today.

The VL-Whisper, the flagship wheel in the Nidec-Shimpo line and one of the best wheels on the market today.

This page is out of date. Please visit the updated 2025 Nidec-Shimpo Pottery Wheels Buyers Guide.

Note: Updated pricing and info as of October 2023

Shimpo makes four different wheels ranging from the tabletop Aspire to the ultra-quiet VL-Whisper. The wheels are beloved, especially the classic RK style, and the four wheels do a great job of covering the prices and features that will work for any potter. The company also makes a variety of attachments and add-ons that make these wheels some of the most popular with professionals and production potters.

This post will cover all the models, features, and accessories in the Shimpo product line. For other manufacturers, check out our 2023-24 Pottery Wheel Buyer’s Guide and our Pottery Wheel Comparison Chart.

Top Pick: VL-Whisper

vl-whisper.jpeg

The VL-Whisper is our top pick in the Shimpo product line, and it’s also the top pick in our Pottery Wheel Buyer’s Guide. It has an innovative, magnet-driven wheel that doesn’t make any sound while still supplying great power, torque, and control. It can switch easily between forward or reverse. The adjustable legs can also be removed or lowered, and the plastic box covering the magnets and controls will sit flat on a tabletop, allowing you to easily convert this model into a powerful tabletop wheel.

This VL-Whisper has been on the market for about 10 years and has quickly become one of the most popular wheels among professionals and anyone looking for a quiet wheel.

Keep scrolling for a complete overview of Shimpo pottery wheels.

Table of Contents

  • Overview of Shimpo Wheels

  • Aspire Tabletop Wheel

  • VL-Lite

  • RK-Whisper

  • VL-Whisper

  • Shimpo Pottery Wheel Accessories

  • Notes on repairing Shimpo wheels

  • Summary

Overview of Shimpo Wheels

Founded in 1952 in Tokyo, Japan, Shimpo wheels are distributed worldwide. North American operations opened in Chicago, Illinois in 1974 as the Nidec-Shimpo Corporation. Increasingly, Shimpo products are branded with just the Nidec name but for this guide I will continue to use Shimpo as that is what most people call these wheels.

Shimpo also makes high quality pugmills, ball mills, slab rollers, banding wheels, and handheld extruders. There are also a variety of pottery wheel accessories (see below) that will work with the pro-level RK-Whisper or VL-Whisper. Shimpo also has a tabletop wheel and a budget model, the belt-driven VL-Lite.

Shimpo wheels have long been studio favorites for many potters. They are high quality, long lasting, easy to adjust and there is truly no other wheel quite like the little turtle-shaped RK models. With the newer offerings such as the VL-Whisper, Shimpo has opened up to a larger audience and to my eye, is about equal with Brent in terms of popularity in studios, community centers, and academic institutions.

The next sections will cover Shimpo wheels from cheapest to most expensive.

Notes on buying wheels online:

Wheels are available from a variety of vendors, and it’s good to shop around. Some stores will include shipping in the price, while other stores add shipping, which can cost $200 or more. With this in mind, it’s important to compare the total cost including shipping and delivery.

The Shimpo Aspire tabletop wheel.

The Shimpo Aspire tabletop wheel.

Aspire

The Shimpo Aspire tabletop wheel has a 1/3 horse power motor and 7 inch wheelhead. It is belt-driven and is rated to a 20 lb centering capacity. There is also an optional foot pedal. The unit weighs 31 lbs, making it a truly portable wheel that can be put away when not in use. The bat pins have a 6 inch spacing, and there are a variety of bats available for this size.

The Shimpo Aspire with the optional foot pedal.

The Shimpo Aspire with the optional foot pedal.

Shimpo Aspire features
Motor: 1/3 horsepower
Wheelhead: 7 inch diameter
Reversible: No
Dimensions: 14 x 20 x 9 inches tall
Weight: 31 lbs
Speed: 0 to 230 rpm handheld, 0 to 250 rpm with foot pedal
Warranty: 5 years
Centering Capacity: 20 lbs
Price: Listed at $569

VL-Lite

The Shimpo VL-Lite

The Shimpo VL-Lite

The VL-Lite is Shimpo’s entry-level, full-size wheel. It is a strong competitor for Speedball and other budget models, with a 1/2 HP 100 watt, belt-driven motor, 12” wheelhead and is reversible. It’s relatively lightweight at 85lbs, and is rated to a centering capacity of 25 lbs.

VL-Lite features
Motor: 1/2 horsepower, 100 watts
Wheelhead: 12 inch diameter
Reversible: Yes, with a switch
Dimensions: 22 x 28 x 21 inches tall
Weight: 85 lbs
Speed: 0 to 250 rpm
Warranty: 5 years
Centering Capacity: 25 lbs
Price: Listed at $860

RK-Whisper

The RK-Whisper model now has a virtually silent, magnetic-driven wheel.

The RK-Whisper model now has a virtually silent, magnetic-driven wheel.

The classic RK-Whisper is a beloved pottery wheel with a distinctive rounded-off rectangular shape and fixed foot pedal on the right side. Previous models had a belt-driven wheel and motor, but It is now made with the same, super-quiet 1/2 HP, 400 watt magnetic “motor” as the VL-Whisper, but with a 12” wheel head. It may look like the classic model but under the hood it is state of the art.


RK-Whisper features
Motor: 1/2 horsepower, 400 watts
Wheelhead: 12 inch diameter
Reversible: Yes, with a switch
Dimensions: 20 x 21 x 20 inches tall
Weight: 118 lbs
Speed: 0 to 250 rpm
Warranty: 5 years
Centering Capacity: 100 lbs
Price: Usually available for around $1310

VL-Whisper

The Shimpo VL-Whisper

The Shimpo VL-Whisper

Shimpo’s top-of-the-line VL-Whisper (VL stands for Velocity) is innovative and quiet, with the same 1/2 HP, 400 watt magnetic drive as the RK-Whsper but with a 14” wheelhead. The magnetic drive is ultra-quiet, powerful, and ready with instant torque when the pedal is engaged. There are no belts or motors in the Shimpo Whisper models, making them truly distinct on the pottery wheel market. The wheel is reversible with the turn of the switch and the wheelhead will turn freely at 0 rpm for use as a banding wheel although it does not turn as easily as a regular banding wheel.

My only complaint with the VL-Whisper is the splash pan is not as durable as the Brent splash pans. This is only a concern in shared studios, such as a community center where splash pans are cleaned often and can be abused by inexperienced users. An individual potter will be able to maintain a crack-free splash pan forever.

VL-Whisper features
Motor: 1/2 horsepower, 400 watt
Wheelhead: 14 inch diameter
Reversible: Yes, with a switch
Dimensions: 23 x 27.5x 22.75 inches tall
Weight: 122 lbs
Speed: 0 to 250 rpm
Warranty: 5 years
Centering Capacity: 100 lbs
Price: Usually available for $1532

Shimpo Pottery Wheel Accessories

Shimpo makes a variety of innovative accessories for wheels. For the most part, these are designed to be used with the RK models, but most will fit on the VL-Whisper as well. These accessories will most likely not fit well with the VL-Lite, but they possibly could be used with wheels from other manufacturers. The RK models and VL-Whisper have two bolts on the wheel tabletop that are designed to be used with these attachments, making Shimpo some of the most popular wheels with production potters.

The Shimpo Jigger Arm.

The Shimpo Jigger Arm.

Jigger Arm Attachment

The Shimpo Jigger Arm Attachment is a speciality tool for use with jigger/jolly plaster molds. It allows you to quickly make accurate pots using a pottery wheel. The product manual states that it will fit on the VL-Whisper, RK-Whisper, and the older RK-10 and RK-2 models. Contact Nidec-Shimpo if you have other models, but in general, it seems like it will work with most wheels that have a 12” or larger wheelhead.

To see these jigger arms in action, check out this video about Jono Pandolfi.

The Shimpo Ball Mill attachment on an RK wheel.

The Shimpo Ball Mill attachment on an RK wheel.

Ball Mill Attachment

The Shimpo Ball Mill attachment will turn your wheelhead into a ball mill without the added expense of a new machine. Ball mills are used for grinding and unifying glazes.

This attachment retails for around $560 while the smallest ball mill from Shimpo is about $1000, so this represents a real savings. Like the jigger arm, this attachment will definitely work with the VL-Whisper, RK-Whisper, the RK-10, and RK-2 models, and it may work with other wheels that are 12” in diameter or larger.

These days, many glaze products are so finely milled that a ball mill isn’t exactly a studio necessity, but it can still be a nice thing to have, such as making your own underglazes from ball clay and stain.

Extension Tables for RK Models

The Shimpo RK models do not have much table space, which is ideal for small studios. But if you want more room, Shimpo makes two add on tables that add either 2 or 4 square feet of work area within arms reach.

The small table adds 2 square feet of working area.

The small table adds 2 square feet of working area.

The large table adds 4 square feet of working area.

The large table adds 4 square feet of working area.

Extension Legs for VL-Whisper

Extension legs for the VL-Whisper models.

Extension legs for the VL-Whisper models.

Although the VL-Whisper can sit flat on a tabletop, you can also convert it into a standing wheel with these leg extensions. They will bring the wheelhead to a height ranging from 35 to 37 inches, and they work by replacing the standard legs that come with the wheel.

Notes on Repairing Shimpo Wheels

Shimpo pottery wheels have stood the test of time and there are many of these wheels on their second or third decade of constant use. They are good machines that are worth the money. However, like any wheel, there will be maintenance and repairs over time. Repair parts for Shimpo wheels are available at many ceramic suppliers.

On the older RK models with a motor and belt, you can make most adjustments to the speed and pedal by adjusting screws on the machine. And the older Shimpo switches seem more resilient than the electronics that Brent used to use, however Brent has begun using sealed switches that don’t seem to be affected by clay-covered hands.

The newer VL-Whisper and RK-Whisper models use fewer moving parts as they are magnet driven rather than having a motor and a belt. Ideally, this should mean fewer repairs. For the most part, it seems that most Whisper models are still going strong but as we get to 10 or 15 years out from when these models first came on the market, I expect there will be more repairs needed. However, I had a hard time finding message board and other info about broken Whisper models, and I haven’t seen them break down myself.

Overall, my biggest complaint with Shimpo wheels is that the splash pans are less resilient. This is not a concern for an individual, who can maintain their wheel with care. But in shared spaces such as community centers, where the splash pans are cleaned multiple times a day and dropped and abused, the Shimpo splash pans develop cracks faster than the Brent splash pans.

Summary

Shimpo Wheels are great wheels. If you decide to get one, it will be a useful studio tool for decades. With four wheels on the market, Nidec-Shimpo has really targeted their offerings with quality wheels that will work for any level of potter.

The Aspire is a great tabletop wheel for a hobbyist, kid, or a pro looking for a portable wheel. The VL-Lite is an affordable, entry-level wheel that will make great pots and is easier to move.

The RK-Whisper takes the classic Shimpo wheel shape and updates it with the super-quiet Whisper magnet drive with a 12 inch wheel. And the VL-Whisper is super quiet and offers a 14 inch wheel head with the same 1/2 hp, 400 watt Whisper magnet drive.

Combine this with offerings such as the Jigger Arm Attachment, and you’ve got a flexible and useful line of wheels.

What do you think about Shimpo wheels? Let us know in the comments.

Brent Pottery Wheels Buyers Guide

The Brent C, a classic pottery wheel and our top pick for a wheel from Amaco Brent.

The Brent C, a classic pottery wheel and our top pick for a wheel from Amaco Brent.

Please visit the updated 2025 Brent Pottery Wheel Buyers Guide. This page is now out of date.

Note: Updated pricing and info as of October 2023

Brent wheels are popular, dependable wheels known for an overbuilt style that features a strong plastic table with steel legs, sturdy splash pan, and a variety of belt-driven motors. You will see these yellow ochre machines everywhere and that’s because of their dependability and long-lasting quality. Brent wheels come with a 10 year warranty but expect them to last much longer than that.

This post will cover all the models and features of Brent pottery wheels. For other wheels, check out our 2023-24 pottery wheel buyer’s guide or a comparison chart of wheels.


TOP PICK: Brent Model C

Brent Model C pottery wheel in the classic Brent yellow.

Brent Model C pottery wheel in the classic Brent yellow.

The top pick for a Brent Wheel is the Model C. It features a 14” wheelhead, 3/4 HP motor, and can go forward or reverse with the flip of a switch. The Model C is generally available for around $1,980.

Model C is also the one model Brent has made available in a sleek, all-black model.

This model strikes a balance of features and affordability: The Model B has a smaller 12” wheelhead and less-powerful motor, while the other wheels feature larger, more costly, motors.

Black_C.jpeg

Most Brent Models, including the C, are also available in all black.

Read below for more info and an overview of each wheel offered by Brent.

Table of Contents

  • Overview of Brent Wheels

  • Brent Model B

  • Brent Model C

  • Brent Model CXC

  • Brent Model 16

  • Brent Pottery Wheel Accessories

  • Discontinued Brent Models

  • Notes on repairing Brent Wheels

  • Summary

Brent Wheels: Overview and Background

Founded in 1967 by Robert Brent, the wheels have been manufactured by the American Art Clay Company (AMACO) since 1978. There have been a variety of wheels over time (including the recently discontinued IE models) but for decades, Brent has had a classic lineup of wheels built on top of a similar table and frame. Each wheel has the same, high-quality foot pedal, the same frame, and same splash pan. The only differences will be wheelhead size and the power of the motor.

Brent wheels are easy to adjust and repair, and really hold up under heavy use such as at schools or community centers. In my experience, Brent splash pans are the sturdiest on the market and can take the most abuse. Brent has also made upgrades in the past few years, such as sealed switches that are easier to clean and can’t get clay and water jammed into them.

Brent wheels use belt-driven motors. These are strong motors with good torque; definitely get the largest motor your budget can afford. New Brent wheels are quiet and might stay that way over time, but if the wheelheads get waterlogged or the wheel gets abused (this will happen in most shared studio spaces) expect the belt, wheelhead and/or motor to develop some noise. It’s not the noisiest thing, but if this is a concern, check out other wheels such as the ultra-quiet Shimpo Whisper.

The B and C models are where most will find the sweet spot of power and price within the Brent product line. The difference in these models are the size of the motor (1/2 HP vs 3/4 HP) and the wheelhead diameter (12” vs 14”). The CXC and the EX model are basically the same as the C, but with bigger motors.

One note is the Brent centering capacity. 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 while other manufacturers don’t even use these numbers. So centering capacity may be a bit inflated but Brent’s numbers are included below. In general, I think Brent uses centering capacity to mean how much clay can be turned on the wheel. If you build big pots on the wheel, go for a bigger motor.

Overall, Brent makes great, dependable wheels. The Brent Wheels are workhorses and won’t disappoint, and will be a trusty, dependable studio tool for decades.

Brent Model B

Brent Model B Pottery Wheel.

Brent Model B Pottery Wheel.

The Brent Model B is currently Brent’s entry-level wheel. The main difference with this model is that it has a 12” wheelhead (most others have 14”) and a 1/2 HP motor. This motor is quite strong but if your budget allows, you might consider getting the Model C with a larger wheelhead and motor for about $100 more.

Brent Model B features
Motor: 1/2 Horsepower
Wheelhead: 12 inch diameter
Reversible: Yes, with a switch on the control panel
Dimensions: 21 x 28 x 21.5 inches
Weight: 119 lbs
Speed: 0 to 240 rpm
Warranty: 10 years
Centering Capacity: 150 lbs
Price: Usually available for around $1,898

Brent Model C

Brent Model C

Brent Model C

Brent Model C has the sweet spot of features and price in the Brent lineup, making it our top pick. It’s also available in an all black model. Model C has a 3/4 horsepower motor and a 14” wheelhead.

Brent Model C is also available in an all-black model.

Brent Model C is also available in an all-black model.

Brent Model C features
Motor: 3/4 Horsepower
Wheelhead: 14 inch diameter
Reversible: Yes, with a switch on the control panel
Dimensions: 21 x 28 x 21.5 inches
Weight: 121 lbs
Speed: 0 to 240 rpm
Warranty: 10 years
Centering Capacity: 225 lbs
Price: Usually available for $1,980.
Model C in black typically costs $2,023.

Brent Model CXC

The Brent CXC pottery wheel.

The Brent CXC pottery wheel.

The Brent Model CXC is virtually identical to the Model C, except that it has a 1 horsepower motor.

Brent Model CXC features
Motor: 1 Horsepower
Wheelhead: 14 inch diameter
Reversible: Yes, with a switch on the control panel
Dimensions: 21 x 28 x 21.5 inches
Weight: 129 lbs
Speed: 0 to 240 rpm
Warranty: 10 years
Centering Capacity: 300 lbs
Price: Listed at $2,045 but usually available for $1,550 to $1,600.

Model 16

The Brent Model 16 accessible pottery wheel.

The Brent Model 16 accessible pottery wheel.

The Brent Model 16 is an accessible wheel for use in rehabilitation programs or for potters in wheelchairs. It’s a really innovate design that adds flexibility and accessibility to a studio. It is completely adjustable, such as a crank to raise or lower the wheel/table, so it can be used sitting down or standing up.

The Model 16 can roll on casters and fit through a 36” door, and the casters can be secured so that it will not move while in use.

Regarding the wheel specs, it’s the same numbers as the Model B, with a 12” wheelhead and a 1/2 horsepower motor.

Brent Model 16 features
Motor: 1/2 Horsepower
Wheelhead: 12 inch diameter
Reversible: Yes, with a switch on the control panel
Dimensions: 36 x 36 x 21 to 35 inches high
Weight: 287 lbs
Speed: 0 to 240 rpm
Warranty: 2 years
Centering Capacity: 150 lbs
Price: Listed at $3,590 but usually available for $2,900

Brent Pottery Wheel Accessories

Brent Workstation

A Brent Workstation mounted on a Model C wheel.

A Brent Workstation mounted on a Model C wheel.

The Brent Workstation is a bean-shaped plastic table that will attach to almost any Brent wheel manufactured after 2009. It can really expand the work area within arms reach. It’s made of 3/8” thick black plastic—the same plastic used in Brent Plasti-Bats. It’s easy to clean, durable, and functional.


Brent Leg Extensions

The Brent Leg Extension Kit pictured here with a Model B wheel.

The Brent Leg Extension Kit pictured here with a Model B wheel.

The Brent Leg Extension Kit will convert most Brent wheels made after 2009 into a standing wheel. The steel legs are adjustable from 35 3/4 to 40 3/4 in one inch increments.

To use, simply place the pin at the desired height and slide the leg extensions over the wheel legs, and then tighten the screws to hold in place. These extenders will work with any wheel leg that have 2 3/8” diameter leg tubes.

The leg extenders retail for $350 but can often be found for around $300.

Brent Leg Booties

Brent Wheel Booties.jpeg

Brent Leg Booties will give your wheel a lift of 2 or 4 inches. It’s a useful addition that can be screwed on tight. You can also place your wheel on cinder blocks or pieces of wood, but these are a more stable option.

Discontinued Brent Pottery Wheels

Brent IE X.jpg

The Brent IE wheels were designed to work as full-size wheels or table top.

As recently as 2020, Brent made the IE models that could be used as a regular pottery wheel or could easily convert to a table top wheel. They are no longer listed on the AMACO Brent website, but you may find them available at stores.

Similarly, in 2023 we noted that the Model EX with a 1 1/2 HP motor is also no longer listed on the Brent website or is available for sale.

Over time, Brent has made kick wheels and other models, so you may seem some interesting used wheels out there.

For a short history on Robert Brent, the inventor of Brent wheels, check out this PDF or this 2018 article from the Santa Rosa (Calif.) Press-Democrat.

Notes on Repairing Brent Wheels

Brent Wheels are easy to repair and parts are readily available from AMACO Brent and ceramic supply stores.

The most common adjustment needed is to adjust the speed of the wheel via the foot pedal. This can be done by removing the bottom plate of the pedal and adjusting the potentiometers, which control the low and high limits on the wheel.

Other common repairs include replacing faulty on / off switches. You may also need to replace a belt. Brent has created repair videos for many of these common fixes, which can be found on YouTube.

The wheelhead is not designed to be oiled. Instead, the expectation is that the entire wheelhead assembly would be replaced if needed. For the most part, I think a wheel for an individual that is well maintained won’t need to be repaired much, if it all. But wheels that are used by beginners may have issues, such as being completely swamped by too much water, and the wheelhead can start making noise. For these more serious repairs, you may wan to ask at your local ceramic supplier if they know anyone who repairs wheels and can do these fixes for you.

Finally, if you find a used wheel you may or may not be able to find repair parts. Some of the original Brent wheels from the 1970s and 1980s are still working, or are still out there and turn up for sale. It’s hard to say if they are repairable. But a Brent Wheel that is 10 or 20 years old will probably be more straightforward to fix and use standard parts.

Summary

Brent Wheels are sturdy, dependable wheels that have been some of the most popular pottery wheels for the past 50 years. They are a worthwhile investment if you are serious about pottery. The product line doesn’t include a entry-level budget model, but instead focuses on professional-grade wheels that are great for beginners or professionals. If it’s the right wheel for you, it’ll be a dependable part of your studio for decades.

You might also enjoy:

2023-24 Pottery Wheel Buyer’s Guide

Gift Guide for Potters

Pottery Wheel Comparison Chart

Table Top Wheel Buyers Guide 2023

Best Loop Tools For Trimming Pottery

The Best Banding Wheels

Best Pottery Wheel Stools

Best Ware Carts and Mobile Shelves for Pottery, Ceramics, and Sculpture Studios

Ware Carts can add a lot of storage space to your studio and are great for holding in-progress work. If you get a model on wheels, it will make your studio even more flexible and allow you to maximize space.

There are six ware carts made for ceramic studios, but you can also use wire shelving and even bakery carts. This post will cover every type of ware cart I’ve seen in ceramic studios, along with recommended picks. In truth, any of these will be quality additions to your studio. You’ll just need to select the cart that works for your space, and budget.

The Brent Ware Cart: our top pick for a ware cart / mobile shelving in a ceramic studio.

The Brent Ware Cart: our top pick for a ware cart / mobile shelving in a ceramic studio.

Top Pick: Brent Ware Cart

The Brent Ware Cart is my favorite ware cart for a few reasons. It has the typical Brent overbuilt / bombproof construction; it’s tall; and it’s made with round steel pipe. As ware carts are designed to move, the round sides are comfortable to grab and roll. It’s a small difference, but a detail that really makes this cart stand out. The center top bar is also less conspicuous, and I like the rounded look. Brent makes a few other carts, including a mobile shelf cart, if you want to go for a matching look too.

This cart ships flat and assembles by bolting together the cross bars and adding plywood shelves. It comes with 4” locking casters, and measures 35 inches wide, 24 inches deep, and 72 3/4” tall. The shelves are 24” x 32” and it can hold up to 9 full shelves, or you can use it with a combination of 12 x 32” half shelves.

The Brent Ware Cart typically retails for around $700 plus $150 for the shelves, or you can cut plywood yourself to make the 32” wide shelving.

Budget Pick: Wire Shelving on Wheels

Seville Classics 2’ x 4’ x 6’ tall heavy duty wheeled wire shelving.

Seville Classics 2’ x 4’ x 6’ tall heavy duty wheeled wire shelving.

Ceramic-specific ware carts retail for between $425 and $700 plus shelves, but for less than half that you can get heavy duty wire shelving on wheels. The wire shelving is not ideal for greenware that is too wet, but you can use boards to store wet pieces on it. And it is great for pieces that are leather hard, for drying tiles, or for any other sort of storage.

For wire shelving used as a ware cart, I’d go for 24” deep shelving such as the Seville Classics 24” x 48” x 72” tall unit with 3 inch casters. The whole unit is rated to hold 500 lbs. This is lower than the 750 to 1000 lbs that a ceramic ware cart will hold, but should be plenty for most studios.

amazon basics wire shelving on wheels.jpg

Ultra-Budget Pick: Amazon Basics Wire Shelving on Wheels

For a mobile wire shelving unit that is perfect for smaller studios, you can’t beat the $60 Amazon Basics mobile wire shelving. It’s got 5 shelves, measures 14” deep x 30” wide x 64.75” tall. It’s not as strong or big as a ceramic ware cart but it should hold up under individual / light duty use. Just don’t expect these to survive in an academic or community studio with heavy use.

Budget Pick: Bakery Carts

The Gridmann Bakery Cart with locking casters.

The Gridmann Bakery Cart with locking casters.

Bakery carts are another option for ceramic studios. They aren’t as sturdy or designed for the weight of clay or plaster, but can work for light-duty purposes. They are also cheaper and are often easy to find used. They tend to be smaller, built around the size of an 18” x 26” sheet pan. You’ll need to cut your own plywood shelves or with the narrow width, you can also make shelves with drywall.

Bakery carts are especially popular with tile makers as they really expand your storage area and they work with homemade, drywall shelves.

There are many option, but a solid one is the Gridmann Bakery Cart, which retails for around $150 plus the cost of shelves. In many ways, bakery work is pretty similar to ceramics so maybe these carts would be an ideal option for your studio.

These are just a few of the options for a studio. The post continues below with information on every ware cart on the market.

A Note on Plywood Shelves: Most ware carts have the option of adding precut shelves. You can also make your own with 3/4” interior-grade plywood. Cut it yourself with a plunge saw or table saw, or have a lumber yard cut it for you. You could use 1/2” plywood, but that will bend or warp over time. 3/4” plywood is a better investment as it is more likely to stay flat. It’s worth it to get the best grade of plywood you can afford, you’ll be happy you did years down the road.

If you get a narrow cart, such as a bakery cart, you can also make shelves out of drywall. Just be sure to cover the edges with duct tape or gummed paper packing tape, so that you won’t get drywall crumbs all over your studio.

Table of Contents

  • Top Pick: Brent Ware Cart

  • Budget Pick: Mobile Wire Shelving and Bakery Carts

  • Runner up: Bailey Ware Truck

  • North Star Ware Cart

  • Axner Ware Cart

  • Laguna Ware Cart

  • Debcor Ware Cart

  • Bakery Carts

  • Summary

Runner Up: Bailey Ware Cart

The Bailey Ware Cart, pictured here with the 13 shelf option.

The Bailey Ware Cart, pictured here with the 13 shelf option.

The Bailey Ware Cart is another great option that is about the same size as the Brent Ware Cart but has more shelves and is cheaper. Made of square steel bars and angle iron, it measures 24” deep x 34 1/2” wide x 74 1/4” tall. It has 6” casters and is available with 13 or 26 shelves. The 13 shelf unit retails for around $500 while the 26 shelf unit is around $650. The 26 shelf unit has a 2.5” spacing and is great for studios that do a lot of tile work, whereas the 5” spacing on the 13 shelf unit should work for most studios.

The Bailey Cart has a boxy shape, is easy to roll, and will be a piece of studio furniture that will last for decades. I have used these in a variety of studios and really like them, especially for tile work. When considering this unit, do note the top bars in the front and back. You will either have to use the top shelf for shorter ware, or as is more common, not use the top shelf or two.

Other Ware Cart options:

North Star Ware Truck

The North Star Ware Truck has easy-to-change shelf supports.

The North Star Ware Truck has easy-to-change shelf supports.

The North Star Ware Truck is characterized by it’s flexible shelf supports that hook in place without any tools. It’s a flexible, easy to use design. (You’ll have to gauge how often you need to change the set up of your ware cart to know if this makes sense to you.)

The entire unit is 39” wide, 24” deep and 67” tall and has 6” locking casters. It’s a bit shorter than most ware carts. It can hold up to 22 shelves, but it comes standard with 8 brackets, which gives you 4 shelves in addition to the bottom shelf. This package typically costs around $700.

This is a well thought out cart and is a great option if you want something shorter. Personally, I’d go with a taller cart like the Brent or the Bailey, but the North Star is one of the more flexible options.

Axner Ware Cart

The Axner Ware Cart is almost square, with shelves measure 32” x 36” inches.

The Axner Ware Cart is almost square, with shelves measure 32” x 36” inches.

The Axner Ware Cart is the biggest cart reviewed here. 36” wide, 32” deep, and 84” tall, this boxy behemoth will hold more ware than you’ll know what to do with. It has the potential for 11 shelves and is listed at a 1000 lb max load with 6” casters. Truthfully, this is the one ware cart I’ve never used in person. But it’s big! A deeper version of the Bailey ware cart in a way, that I’m sure is made with good quality from Axner / Laguna. At $500, it’s a good deal.

Halve shelves are listed at $10 each, it would be $220 for all 22. You could probably cut your own for cheaper.

Laguna Ware Cart

The Laguna Ware Cart in the distinctive Laguna teal paint job.

The Laguna Ware Cart in the distinctive Laguna teal paint job.

The Laguna Ware Cart has a center support column that can accommodate 18 half shelves. A distinctive design, it is easy to load even on the top shelf. The drawback is that it’s harder to grab and roll this cart, and you can occasionally catch yourself on the protruding shelf supports.

The cart measures 24” deep x 38” wide x 58” tall with 4” casters, with the shelves measure 12 x 36”. The cart retails for $425 and includes six shelves. It’s a good deal, but it is a shorter shelf and it’s just harder to grab and move this cart when you want to.

Debcor Ware Truck

The Debcor Ware Truck

The Debcor Ware Truck

The Debcor Ware Truck is the shortest option for ceramic ware carts, measuring 24” deep x 32” wide x 54” tall with 4” locking casters. The half shelves measure 12” x 28”, or 24” x 28” for full shelves. Like the Laguna Ware Cart, the Debcor Truck has a top cross bar that doesn’t interfere with loading ware. Although it’s shorter, this could potentially be a great option if you use the top layer for loading tall work.

This cart retails for $575 with 12 plywood half shelves. The cart can accommodate 8 full shelves or 16 half shelves, so you may want to cut a few extra.

Summary

Shelving on wheels just makes every studio better, and a quality ware cart is an investment that will last for decades while maximizing studio space. This post has covered every ceramic-specific option I’m aware of, along with wire shelving and bakery carts. The Brent Ware Cart is my favorite, followed closely by the Bailey Ware Cart, but truthfully, any ware cart is a better option that immobile shelving or no shelving at all.

What do you use for mobile shelving in your studio? Let us know in the comments.

Best Masks for Silica Dust in Pottery and Ceramic Studios

NOTE: This post is out of date and will be archived soon.

CLICK HERE for our updated 2025 Guide to the Best Masks for Silica Dust Prevention

The 3M Half Mask with P100 particulate filters is the best mask option for ceramic studios.

The 3M Half Mask with P100 particulate filters is the best mask option for ceramic studios.

Editors note: Updated January 2022 to reflect the greater availability of N95s and other masks. The guidance on respirators remains the same.

Silica dust is a real hazard in ceramics studios and it’s important to have the right mask. Cloth masks or basic nuisance-grade dust mask will not offer enough protection against silica. The best options are N95/KN95 masks, or respirators with P95 or P100 filters. This is also the level of protection businesses are required by OSHA to provide to employees if silica dust is present.

Respirable silica is very fine with almost invisible particles that can stay airborne for some time, and repeated exposure can lead to silicosis or black lung. To protect against silica, it is important that masks fit correctly. If air can leak around the sides, it really defeats the whole purpose. This is especially of concern if you have facial hair, as that can cause the mask to not be properly sealed to the face. In that case, you may need a full face mask or to trim your beard. Overall, the best mask is going to be one that you reach for and wear during dust-generating tasks. Any protection is better than none. Personally, I use a respirator with P100 filtration whenever I am working with clay, plaster, wood, or other materials that create dust.

Also consider what is causing dust in your studio and seek to minimize that activity if possible. Keep an organized studio, use wet cleaning and sanding methods, and avoid creating dust. You may want to consider adding a dust collection system. For additional recommendations, visit our guides for cleaning tools and HEPA vacuums.

TOP PICK: 3M Half-Facepiece Respirator with P100 Filters

3M 6300 Half-Facepiece Mask without filters attached.

3M 6300 Half-Facepiece Mask without filters attached.

The 3M 6300 Half-Facepiece Respirator is a comfortable, reusable mask with filters that can be replaced as needed. This facepiece will take the round P95 or P100 particulate filters, or the cartridge style filters that are rated for particulates and some types of gases. Either will work, but you might find the round particulate filters to be more breathable. 3M also makes upgraded half masks (see below for more info) but this basic model is affordable, long-lasting, and will get the job done.

Note: this half-facepiece mask has unfiltered exhaust valves that are not appropriate for Covid safety in shared spaces.

The pink, round 3M 2097 P100 filters will fit the half facepiece mask.

The pink, round 3M 2097 P100 filters will fit the half facepiece mask.

P100 Filters and other options

The round, pink 3M 2097 Filters rated to P100 will offer the highest level of particulate protection. You could go with the slightly cheaper, white P95 filters but in my opinion, P100 filters are the way to go.

Another advantage of the Half Facepiece masks and filters is that they seem to be readily available during this time when disposable face masks are in high demand. When using these half masks, there can be some moisture buildup inside, but in general, I find them more comfortable than disposable masks.

All together, the 6300 half facepiece with P100 filters will typically cost around $25, and replacement filters are around $11-15 per set.

DISPOSABLE MASK TOP PICK: 3M 8210 N95 Masks

The 3M 8210 N95 mask has straps that go over the head.

The 3M 8210 N95 mask has straps that go over the head.

We’ve all learned a lot about masks during the Covid-19 pandemic, and if you’ve incorporated these into your Covid routine, you’re set for the studio too. N95 or KN-95 Masks are NIOSH rated to filter 95 percent of dust particles and are good for multiple uses if kept clean. N95 Masks have straps that go over your head, making them fit more snugly. KN-95 masks typically have ear bands and fit more loosely, however, they often seem to be constructed with a bit more breathing room around your mouth.

These days, it can be hard to find NIOSH-approved N95 / KN-95 masks but if it’s available, a solid option is the 3M 8210 N95 Mask. It typically comes in bulk packs where each mask costs $1.50 to $2.00 each.

ALTERNATE DISPOSABLE PICK: KN-95 Masks

Armbrust KN-95 mask in purple

Armbrust is an Austin, Texas-based mask manufacturer. Their KN-95 masks are available in a variety of colors. Shop at Armbrust

The disposable mask market is quickly changing these days, with a variety of manufacturers attempting to fulfill the demand during the Covid-19 pandemic. There also have been reports of fake name-brand masks and other problems. It can be very confusing to buy a “real” N95 or KN-95 mask, as detailed in this NY Times report.

KN-95 masks, which have ear bands as opposed to the over-the-head N95 style, have become quite common but the number and variety available are confusing. One place to start is by reviewing CDC-approved mask manufacturers as explained here or listed by the CDC here.

In late 2021, I placed an order with the Texas-based U.S. manufacturer Armbrust, and have been very happy with the quality of the surgical, KN-95, and kids KN-95 masks that I received. Not only are they NIOSH approved, but the masks are available in a variety of colors. It is great to have a readily available source of NIOSH-rated masks.

Tightest Fit: Pouch or “Duckbill” Style N95s

The Kimberly-Clark Pouch Style N95 has two soft straps that go over your head.

They may look sort of funny, but in my experience, the pouch or “duckbill-style” N95s have the tightest fit of any disposable masks. You can see the mask material move in and out as you are breathing, and it seems to provide excellent coverage for Covid and dust. These are what I favor for teaching and other times when a respirator is not feasible.

More mask reviews below:

Those are my top picks for studio dust masks that are appropriate to use for silica. Keep reading for a deeper look at various half-facepiece masks and other disposable mask options.

Table of Contents

  • Half Facepiece Masks (3M 6300, 3M 6500, 3M 7500)

  • Filters for Half Facepiece Masks

  • RZ Masks

  • Disposable Masks

  • Summary

Half Facepiece Masks: 3M Models

My top pick for a dust mask for a pottery or ceramic studio is a 3M 6300 Half Facepiece mask. It’s the basic model but will get the job done. The upgraded models are made with softer plastic and have a few different features with the straps and valves.

3M 6000 series Half Facepiece Mask

The 3M 6300 Half Facepiece Mask.

The 3M 6300 Half Facepiece Mask.

The 6000 series is the standard mask in the 3M line, and seems to be readily available in the 6300 model but you may occasionally see the 6200 or 6100. From what I can tell, these are all about the same. Made of “thermoplastic elastomer,” the masks will work with 3M filters or cartridge filters, and can be taken apart and cleaned. At around $13 each, these are a great deal.

3M 6500 Cool Flow Half Facepiece Mask

3M 6503QL Rugged Comfort Quick Latch model.

3M 6503QL Rugged Comfort Quick Latch model.

The 3M 6500 series is termed the “rugged comfort line” and features a softer silicone face seal, a low profile design, a “Cool-Flow” valve, and some models have a quick-latch drop down feature.

The most common and popular model in this series appears to be the 6503QL Rugged Comfort Quick Latch Model. In addition to the silicone lining, this mask features upgraded straps. It typically retails for $20 to $25 plus filters.

3M 7500 Half Facepiece Mask

The 3M 7502 Half Facepiece Mask.

The 3M 7502 Half Facepiece Mask.

The 7500 Half Facepiece line from 3M has the same features as the 6500 line, with the silicone lining and Cool Flow valve, but it has one main difference: the exhalation valve air is routed down to reduce fogging. If you wear glasses or googles, you should consider this mask.

This 7500 line typically retails for $25 to $30 plus filters.

3M Filter Options for Half Facepiece Masks

There are two styles of filters available for 3M masks: round particulate filters and cartridge filters, which work for particulates and gasses. For ceramics, particulate filters are adequate but if you stain wood, paint, or other activities with volatile gases, the cartridges will be a better option.

Particulate Filters

There are two options for round particulate filters: P95 and P100. The P100 offers a higher level of filtration. For a ceramic studio, the 2071 or 2091 filters are your best options. There are a few other filter options aimed at welders, smelting, and chemistry applications.

p100 filter.jpg
P95_2071_F_F.jpg

3M Cartridge Filters

3M Cartridges are almost all rated P100 and will filter particulates, gases, and vapors. There are a variety of options but the basic 60291 should cover most art studio applications. These are a bit overkill if you are just worried about silica / particulates, but are a good option if you are painting or working with anything that produces volatile fumes. The cartridges are generally about double the cost of particulate filters. At big box hardware stores, they typically only sell the cartridge filters or mask combos, as shown below.

60921_P.jpg
respirator with cartridge filters.jpg

For a complete overview of all the mask and filter options available from 3M, click here or here.

RZ Masks

The M2 mask from RZ.

The M2 mask from RZ.

RZ Reusable Face Masks are an interesting mix of a disposable mask with some features of a respirator. A newer product, you can now find these at a lot of hardware and home improvement stores, and online. The masks are not yet NIOSH rated, so I have some hesitancy in rating them higher, but when they do (most likely) receive a NIOSH rating, these would be a great workshop mask. (For technical info on RZ masks and the testing they have undergone, click here.)

The M2 Mask from RZ features a mesh fabric, hook and loop neck strap (i.e. similar to Velcro), and carbon filters that filter 99.9% of particles down to .1 micron. These masks were designed with unfiltered exhalation valves but the company now makes valve caps for use in shared environments where only filtered exhalation is recommended for the best Covid safety.

You will need to replace the carbon filters over time. Think of this mask as a more comfortable hybrid of a respirator and a disposable mask. They typically retail for $32 to $36 and come in a wide variety of colors. Replacement filters are available in a 3 pack for $9.

Other Disposable Masks

The 3M N95 and KN-95 masks listed at the top of this post are great options, but there are other disposable masks.

Moldex 2300

The Moldex 2300 Mask.

The Moldex 2300 Mask.

The Moldex 2300 is another N95 particulate respirator that also features an exhaust valve. This helps reduce moisture buildup, but it’s not recommended for Covid-level safety. The Moldex masks are also currently reserved for front-line organizations fighting Covid.

Honeywell Nuisance Masks

Honeywell Nuisance Masks

Honeywell Nuisance Masks

The Honeywell Nuisance Masks are cheap and easy to find, but they are not rated for hazardous dust or particulate use. Too often, I’ve seen these as the masks offered to students in ceramic classes. I guess they are better than no mask but there’s no reason to be casual about silica dust. These might be fine in a pinch, but they may give a false sense of security. For art studios, it’s best to use the proper N95 or higher masks.

Summary

This post has covered a variety of masks to deal with silica and other particulates in a ceramic studio. The first step should be to avoid making dust if possible. But to deal with silica, use a NIOSH approved half facemask respirator, or N95 rated disposable masks. Your long-term health is worth it, and investing in quality personal protective equipment is always a good idea.

What type of mask do you use to protect against silica and other particulates? Let us know in the comments.

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Best Wet Polisher / Grinder for Ceramics and Sculpture

There are a variety of wet polishers/grinders on the market, but models from Flex, Makita, and Metabo are clear market leaders. These are long-lasting, professional-grade tools that will hold up under heavy use for all your grinding and polishing needs. There are other options, but the top three picks are clearly superior to various generics and off-brand models. These tools are mostly designed for polishing and routing marble and stone, but they work great with ceramic, glaze, concrete and other materials.

A complete review and guide to wet polishers is below, but first:

TOP PICK: Flex LE 12-3 100 Variable Speed Wet Polisher / Grinder

The Flex LE 12-3 100 Variable Speed Wet Polisher / Grinder.

The Flex LE 12-3 100 Variable Speed Wet Polisher / Grinder.

The top pick (and the model I use in the studio) is the Flex LE 12-3 100 Variable Speed Wet Polisher / Grinder.

The Flex polisher has a 9.3 amp motor with speeds ranging from 1200 to 3700 RPM, can accommodate up to 5 inch pads, weighs 5.5 lbs (2.4kg), and it is made with high-quality rubber hoses and cords that stand the test of time. One distributor reports that of all the wet grinder models, this gets returned the least, speaking to its quality. The Flex Variable Speed Wet Polisher typically retails for around $320-$340.

Like most power tools, you do have to pay for quality with wet polishers. The top three models from Flex, Makita and Metabo are among the most expensive models, generally costing between $300 and $350 plus extra for a pad and grinding discs. But for an electric tool used in such close proximity to water, you definitely want a tool that you can trust.

Is this a necessary tool for everyone? Most likely not. A wet polisher/grinder is a specialized piece of equipment. But once you have one, you’ll find lots of uses ranging from clean up and polishing, to opening up new decorative possibilities with ceramic glazes. And it’s always great to have a water-based sanding operation to keep dust down in your studio.

SAFETY NOTE

Wet polishers / grinders have electrical motors and a water feed. Use proper safety equipment including eye protection, rubber gloves, and possibly a rubber apron. These machines will cast water in many directions, so create a protected area and endeavor to keep water away from the motor and electrical cords. If you feel a “tingle” of electricity, cease use and assess what is causing the problem. All of these tools come with a built-in Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) and if possible, you should plug them into an outlet that also has a GFCI. If the on-unit GFCI is not working, do not use the tool.

Table of Contents

  1. Top Pick: Flex LE 12-3 100 Variable Speed Wet Polisher / Grinder

  2. 2nd Top Pick: Metabo PWE 11-100 Variable Wet Polisher / Grinder

  3. 3rd Top Pick: Makita PW5001C Variable Speed Stone Polisher

  4. Runner Up: Stadea SWP 101K Wet Polisher

  5. Other options

  6. Comparison Chart / Buyer’s Guide

  7. How To Use A Wet Polisher

  8. Summary

Top Pick: Flex LE 12-3 100 Variable Speed Wet Polisher and Grinder

The Flex Wet Polisher / Grinder with a 4 inch pad attached, and showing 4 and 5 inch Stadea brand diamond grinding pads.

The Flex Wet Polisher / Grinder with a 4 inch pad attached, and showing 4 and 5 inch Stadea brand diamond grinding pads.

The Flex LE 12-3 100 is the top pick because of its many high-quality features including variable speed, ability to accommodate up to 5” pads, quality of construction including a rubber hose that won’t get kinks, and durability. It’s a close race with the Makita and Metabo models, but this German-made machine stands out for it’s overall quality and ease of use. I’m happy to report that this is the machine I have been using in my studio and it has held up under 6 years of frequent use. If I was shopping today, I would look most closely at this model and the Metabo.

The Flex comes with a 1 year warranty, and has a 9.3 amp motor with speeds ranging from 1200 to 3700 RPM. It does not come with an adapter for the quick-release hose, so you will have to find something that works for your studio. I use a simple garden hose to quick-release connector and I’ve also found attachments to get the hose connector fitted on a faucet.

Flex also makes a single speed model that costs about $20 less, but I think a variable speed wet polisher is the way to go. I typically use speeds ranging from 2 to 4 on this, or 1700 to 2400 RPMs. The speed adjuster is a dial on the back of the tool (see pictures below).

If you read online reviews, the only drawbacks that users report is difficulty finding the right hose connector (I found it easy to find however) and some report GFCI issues. I am very careful when using a wet polisher, and can say I’ve never felt one tingle or shock from this machine.

Slideshow of more images of the Flex LE 12-3 100 Wet Polisher.

2nd Top Pick: Metabo PWE 11-100 Wet Polisher / Grinder

The Metabo PWE 11-100 Wet Polisher, pictured here with a 4 inch pad.

The Metabo PWE 11-100 Wet Polisher, pictured here with a 4 inch pad.

The Metabo PWE 11-100 another variable speed, German-made wet polisher / grinder that has a lot of great features and is one of 3 professional-grade wet polishers that are best for ceramic and sculpture studios. It has a 9.6 amp motor with speeds ranging from 1700 to 6100 RPM, can accommodate up to a 5 inch pad. It also has an adjustable handle and a standard 1 year warranty with can be extended to 3 years with online registration.

Note the conveniently placed water switch near the rear hand grip on the Metabo.

Note the conveniently placed water switch near the rear hand grip on the Metabo.

This is the most recent wet polisher to the market, and Metabo has looked hard at the Flex and Makita models to try to find innovative touches, namely the extra speed, adjustable handle, and best of all, placing the water switch near the rear grip so you can cut the water with a push of your finger.

Some online users report issues with finding a quick connect adapter that works, but I think if you just take your grinder to the hardware store, you should be able to find something that works. All in all, this is a great model that goes head to head with the Flex. I’m really happy with my Flex Wet Polisher but I’d look really close at this model if I was buying a new machine today.

3rd Top Pick: Makita PW5001C 4” Wet Polisher / Grinder

The Makita PW5001C Wet Polisher

The Makita PW5001C Wet Polisher

The Makita PW5001C Wet Polisher is one of the most popular wet grinders on the market and you will find extensive reviews and feedback, which speaks to its overall quality and professional-grade durability. It has a 7.9 amp motor with speeds ranging from 2000 to 4000 RPM, and can accommodate up to a 4” pad.

This model was the first to feature a water feed on the bottom of the machine, which was an innovation soon copied by Flex and Metabo. It has a 1 year warranty. It also has a traditional side grip front handle, similar to what you see on angle grinders.

Some reviews once again found issues with getting the correct attachments for the quick-release hose, but I’m sure a well-stocked hardware store will have something that will get this machine working in your studio.

Overall, it’s a great tool but has a few drawbacks in comparison to the Flex and Metabo including a weaker motor, smaller speed range, and is only recommended up to a 4 inch pad. In general, I mostly use 4 inch pads but I like to have the option for a bigger pad for polishing flat surfaces. But if the Makita seems right for you, don’t let the pad size be the deciding factor. This is the best-selling wet polisher for a reason and Makita is trusted by many professionals in the stone polishing business.

Runner Up: Stadea SWP101K Wet Polisher

The Stadea 101K Wet Polisher / Grinder.

The Stadea 101K Wet Polisher / Grinder.

Outside of the top three professional-grade wet polishers, the Stadea 101K is the best of the budget models. It has a variable speed motor with a range of 700 to 3000 RPM, a splash guard, and can accommodate up to a 5 inch pad. At 9 pounds, it does weigh significantly more than top 3 models, which all weigh about 5 to 5.5 lbs.

The Stadea wet polisher comes with a 6 month warranty and is available as a standalone tool for $200 or can be purchased in packages that include a pad and grinding discs for around $300. Stadea pads are a great option for diamond polishing pads and what I use in the studio, so that package might be an attractive purchase.

Stadea also sells packages, such as this kit with a 4 inch pad, 7 diamond grinding discs, and a buffing pad.

Stadea also sells packages, such as this kit with a 4 inch pad, 7 diamond grinding discs, and a buffing pad.

Users report a variety of problems with this model (and every other budget model) including water leaks and issues with feeling a tingle of electricity while using. It seems that some of these problems may stem from improper use or setting up a workspace incorrectly, so just be careful and you should be fine. But the issue with cheap washers or improper fit of the built-in garden hose connector are annoying and speak to the drawbacks of shopping budget-grade models. If they shortchange the hose connector, what else might be a problem?

Other Models and Options

The six models described below are very affordable but have lots of mixed reviews online. Some users report that these worked great for them, others point to issues with build-quality, overheating, motors dying, and other issues. They also have short warranties or none at all, so shop at your own risk! Many of these models have very similar looking parts, such as the switch on the water valve, and the brass garden hose attachment.

The Damo 4” Wet Polisher Kit

The Damo 4” Wet Polisher Kit

Damo Variable Speed Wet Polisher

The Damo variable speed wet polisher has a 7 amp motor with speeds ranging from 700 to 3000 RPM and is available as a polisher for $180 or as a kit for around $220 to $240. It has a side handle, a bottom water feed with a switch near the rear of the tool, and can accommodate up to 5 inch pads. Overall, many online reviewers were happy with this tool although it’s weight (6.5 lbs) was reported as a drawback. A decent number of reviewers also mentioned that the tool stopped working or had broken parts after a month or two of use. If you’ll occasionally need a wet polisher, this might work, but it’s most likely not going to hold up for months or years under heavy use.

The Hardin WV 4” Wet Polisher Kit

The Hardin WV 4” Wet Polisher Kit

Hardin WV Polisher

The Hardin WV Polisher features an 8 amp motor with speeds ranging from 1000 to 4000 RPM and comes in a kit with a 4 inch backer and set of diamond polishing pads. It has a top water feed with a shutoff valve by the front handle, and comes with a hose and garden-hose attachment.

It has a 90 day warranty and extremely mixed reviews, including a few that mentioned the onboard GFCI didn’t trip even when exposed to water. Yikes! It’s available for the ultra-budget price of $107.

Hardin HWV Wet Polisher

The Hardin HWV Wet Polisher has an 800 watt motor with speeds ranging from 700 to 3000 RPM, and is designed to use with 4” pads. I wasn’t able to locate warranty or weight information, but I assume it’s around the same as the Hardin unit listed above. This polisher comes with a backer pad, diamond discs, and a hose attachment that will fit a standard garden hose. It was a bottom water feed, a splash guard, and two handles options.

Like all the budget models, it has extremely mixed reviews with some users saying they loved it while others reported that motor ran extremely hot, and that they had problems with the GFCI. One user reported that extra plastic flashing from the manufacturing process were blocking air vents to the motor, and that cutting those helped reduce the motor overheating issue. Overall, this is a very budget option that costs $140 for the bare tool or around $165 for a kit.

The Hardin HWV Wet Polisher Kit.

The Hardin HWV Wet Polisher Kit.

The Kawaii WEP 250 Wet Polisher

The Kawaii WEP 250 Wet Polisher

Kawaii WEP 250

The Kawaii WEP 250 Wet Polisher has variable speeds ranging from 900 to 2800, can accommodate up to 5 inch pads, and has a 90 day warranty. This is a model that is carried at Home Depot so you might be able to see it in person in store. It weighs 6 lbs and has many similar parts to other models here, including the water valve switch and garden hose connector. It doesn’t have a lot of reviews online so it’s hard to get much info, but it seems like a pretty straightforward option. One reviewer compared it to the Metabo and described this as a great budget option but did report feeling a few tingles while using, and that the hose connector had to be taped to reduce leakage. It retails for around $145

QuickT Wet Polisher.jpg

QuickT SPW702A Wet Polisher

The QuickT SPW702A Wet Polisher is one of a few models with the “old school” top water line feed, and it has variable speeds ranging from 1000–3000 RPM. It comes with a splash guard, brass hose fitting on the water line, and retails for the budget price of around $150 in a kit that includes pads.

It has a lot of great reviews online, and some who had a few problems. To my eye, it looks very similar to the Hardin WV model with the top water feed. As with many of these budget models, warranty info is not mentioned. It may work for a project or two, or longer if you take care, but it doesn’t come with any sort of manufacturer standing behind it.

ZFE 800 W variable speed polisher grinder.jpg

ZFE 4” Wet Polisher

The ZFE 4” Wet Polisher is another model with the water feed at the top, a splash guard, and a weight listed at between 8.5 and 9 lbs. To my eye, it looks very similar to the QuickT and Hardin WV models, and it retails for around the same price, $170 with a backer pad and polishing pads. It has a variable speed ranging from 500 to 3000 RPM, and doesn’t have warranty info listed online. It has varied reviews with some reporting great success, and others mentioning problems with the O rings on the water line.

Wet Polisher / Grinder Comparison Chart

This chart is with the top picks first, then other models are listed alphabetically.
Note: All models have built in GFCI and 5/8" arbor for backer pad attachments. Some manufacturers list motor by amp, watts, or both and every effort has been made to locate that info.

Top Picks Typical Price Motor Max Pad RPM Range Weight Water Feed Warranty
Flex LE 12-3 100 $320-$340 7.9 amp, 1150 watt 5" 1200-3700 5.3 lbs Bottom 1 year
Metabo PWE 11-100 $310-$330 9.6 amp, 1100 watt 5" 1700-6100 4.9 lbs Bottom 1 to 3 years
Makita PW5001C $300-$320 7.9 amp 4" 2000-4000 5.1 lbs Bottom 1 Year
Stadea SWP101K $198 800 watt 5" 700-3000 9 lbs Bottom 6 months
Other Models
Damo $180 7 amp, 800 watt 4" 700-3000 6.5 lbs Bottom ?
Hardin WV $108 800 watt 5" 1000-4000 8.8 lbs Top 90 days
Hardin HWV $165 800 watt 5" 700-3000 ? Bottom ?
Kawaii WEP 250 $145 7 amp, 900 watt 5" 900-2800 6 lbs Bottom 90 days
QuickT SPW702A $151 800 watt 5" 1000-3500 9 lbs Top ?
ZFE $170 800 watt 5" 500-3000 8.7 lbs Top ?

How to Use a Wet Grinder and a Few Tips

Wet Polisher / Grinders are a specialized tool that can really make short work of your polishing jobs. But with that speed comes potential mess if you don’t have the proper set up. A few tips:

  • Use in a large slop sink or something with walls if possible. This will keep water splashing down.

  • Be aware of where the polisher might spray water, keep electrical outlets protected

  • Wear rubber gloves and rubber apron

  • Use the least amount of water you need.

  • Clean your tool after use, the sprayed water will contain a lot of grit which can cause problems with switches, dials and other moving parts of your tool.

  • For ceramic glaze or kiln shelf clean up, I use 50 grit pads first, then 100, 200 and 400. I don’t usually go higher than 400. Rather than get the traditional 50-3000 grit pad set, you may just need 4 pads. I use Stadea pads. Click here to purchase individual pads.

  • If needed, get multiple backer pads so you can use different size pads. My favorite size is 4” but I do have 5” too.

For a really cool use of this tool, check out what the artist Brad Miller does with his wet polisher. He makes textured forms and then layers multiple colors of pigmented slip and glaze. After the final glaze fire, he will polish back through, revealing the stratified layers.

Summary

Wet Polishers are great tools if you are looking for a dust-free way to grind ceramic, glaze, stone, concrete or other hard surfaces. They will quickly dispense with the biggest glaze drips, getting your piece ready for display. They are also great for cleaning up kiln shelves. There are a variety of models on the market but 3 professional grade models from Flex, Metabo, and Makita really stand out. Not only are these models backed by good warranties, the tools are built to last and survive the test of time. There are also budget options available if you are looking for a tool that will be used just occasionally. The tradeoffs between the professional grade and budget models are clear: fewer hassles, better parts, and tools that will just keep working. The goal of this post was to share my own experience with wet polishers and to give an overview of what is available to buy.

Wall Mounted Clay Extruder Buyer's Guide

Clay extruders are an efficient way to make hollow forms, coils, and other shapes. They are basically tubes with a die attachment and a lever, and there are just enough models on the market to make it a bit confusing to choose. This guide will cover recommended models, and includes a comparison chart of all the models on the market so that you can pick the best extruder for your studio.

The models covered here will make hollow forms ranging from about 2 inches wide to 8 inches wide, although most models will extrude forms around 3 inches wide. They will also make solid coils and other shapes, and all models have blank dies that you can customize to suit your needs or some manufacturers will make custom dies. The smaller sized barrels, such as the Bailey 4” wide extruder, will be the best choice for most studios. But there are larger models and upgrade picks to consider too.

When choosing a model, consider how you will be using it. If you will mostly make solid coil, handle, or other shapes, stick with a 4” wide model as that will be easiest to manage. If you will be making mostly hollow forms, any size model will be relatively easy to extrude; just choose a model that will be big enough for your needs. Other options to consider are the lever style, die options, and ease of cleanup.

The North Star Big Blue Extruder, the only extruder on the market with a round “wagon wheel” handle. It’s wall mounted with a variety of dies.

The North Star Big Blue Extruder, the only extruder on the market with a round “wagon wheel” handle. It’s wall mounted with a variety of dies.

TOP PICK

The top pick and I believe most innovative extruder on the market is the North Star Big Blue Extruder. Featuring a wagon wheel handle, it is easy to use, has a large capacity barrel, and is durable and long lasting. It’s one of the more expensive extruders (aside from powered extruders) but the size, versatility and easy of use more than compensate for the high price point. The gear system allows you to turn the handle and extrude with ease, and the barrel can hold up to 25 lbs of clay. The Big Blue extruders typically retail from around $900 to $1090.

The Bailey 4 inch extruder features a wall mount, lever handle, and interchangeable dies.

The Bailey 4 inch extruder features a wall mount, lever handle, and interchangeable dies.

BEST FOR MOST STUDIOS

For most studios, a basic Bailey 4” extruder is a great option. The 4 inch square barrel allows you to make hollow forms up to 3 inches in diameter, but it’s not so large that it’s hard to extrude the clay. This extruder typically costs around $400 and the die kit is an additional $130. It’s one of the better options when you consider price and the die options, but drawbacks include installing the dies and that the barrel is welded to the wall mount, making clean up harder.



If you are looking for a handheld, mini extruder, or “clay gun,” check out our Handheld Extruder Guide here.

A complete review of wall mounted clay extruders follows.

Table of Contents

  1. Top Pick: North Star Big Blue Extruder

  2. Runner Up: Bailey 4, 5 or 9 inch extruders

  3. North Star 4 inch extruder

  4. Scott Creek 4 or 5 inch extruder

  5. Brent Extruders

  6. Other Wall Mounted Extruders

  7. Powered Extruders

  8. Extruder Tips

  9. Extruder Comparison Chart

  10. Summary

Top Pick: North Star Big Blue Extruder

The North Star Big Blue Extruder.

The North Star Big Blue Extruder.

The North Start Big Blue Extruder combines a big barrel capacity with an easy-to-turn wagon wheel handle and a wide selection of dies. It does cost a premium, typically $900 to $1090, but the size and versatility makes it a wonderful addition to any studio.

The Big Blue has a 6 x 6 x 12 inch tall aluminum barrel that will hold up to a full 25 lb bag of clay. The dies can extrude up to a 4.5 x 4.5 inch wide hollow form, and the dies are a sturdy, hard plastic.

To use the extruder, the die and bottom brace are attached to the barrel with two hex screws. The dies have helpful channels to lock into place. Then, the barrel is filled with clay, and this whole unit is slid up and in and attached to the machine. On one hand, this is an advantage as the dies and clay can be added at a workbench, but the drawback is that you have to move up to about 30 lbs in to place and secure it on the ledge “lip” that will hold the barrel securely. Overall, I find it easy to use, but you want to make sure that you don’t drop a clay-filled barrel on your feet so a shelf or stool underneath can help.

The wagon wheel handle and rack and pinion gears are the real selling point for me, as it makes it much easier to extrude large amounts of clay for extra long tubes and coils. Every other extruder on the market uses some form of a lever handle, which can be dangerous if left sticking out into your space, and they can be hard to pull down. The wagon wheel handle is also relatively compact, or at least it doesn’t stick out into your space.

The Big Blue Extruder is not cheap, typically priced anywhere from $900 to $1090, and the dies cost about $40 each. But, it’s an amazing machine that if properly cared for, will work for decades. I simply keep it clean and add some grease to the gears from time to time.

Runner Up / Best for Most Studios: Bailey 4”, 5” or 9” Extruders

The Bailey 4 wall mounted extruded with a 4” barrel.

The Bailey 4 wall mounted extruded with a 4” barrel.

Bailey makes a great line of clay extruders that are well built and available at a lower price point than the North Star Big Blue. The Bailey models feature a barrel welded to the wall mount, dies that attach with a brace, and a plunger with a lever that slides up and down the pole.

The models include a 4” barrel, a 5” barrel, and a much larger 9” barrel. The 4” and 5” models are available in mild steel or stainless steel—you’ll want to go with stainless if you are using porcelain and are worried about rust. Bailey also makes two sizes of die kits, one kit fits both the 4 and 5 inch barrels, while there’s a larger kit for the 9” extruder. There’s also an extension kit that adapts the small dies to the bigger barrel. If you want, there’s also an upgraded powered version with a variety of stands and other tools suitable for a production studio. When considering the Bailey models, keep in mind the cost of the die kit because the models only come with one coil die and two blank plates, so you’ll definitely have to buy dies.

Overall, it’s a flexible system that is well engineered and is suitable for a wide variety of studios. On the 4 and 5 inch models, the die is attached to the bottom of the barrel via a brace with swinging arms, which are then screwed tight with wing nuts. Then, clay is added to the barrel, the plunger is inserted and you pull the lever to extrude the clay. The 9” model only differs in that the die is held on with C clamps. On all models, hollow form dies are held in place with a cross bar—it screws on to the dies so if you are frequently using multiple hollow forms, plan to buy extra cross bars to save time.

The Bailey 9” extruder can make hollow forms up to 8” in diameter.

The Bailey 9” extruder can make hollow forms up to 8” in diameter.

It’s a bit cumbersome to attach the dies but once in place, these are easy to use. One drawback is the Baileys are harder to clean as the barrel is mounted to the wall. If you have time, let any clay inside dry completely, scrape it out, and then wipe clean with a large sponge. It’s helpful to oil moving parts and the dies as needed, to prevent rusting. It’s also easy to lose the wing nuts with the Bailey models, so keep track of those! If you are doing a serious amount of extruding, you’ll also want to research the various expansion boxes and powered models that Bailey makes.

Understanding the models

The 4” models will hold 11 lbs of clay. The 5” will hold 17 lbs of clay. The die kit is the same for both of these models, ranging from 2 to 3” diameter for hollow forms. The 5” models allow you to extrude longer or more forms, but it may be harder to pull the lever with the increased volume of clay.

Standard 4” typically costs between $310 and $390, while the Stainless 4” ranges from $345 to $435, and the die kit costs about $130. The Standard 5 typically retails for $340 to $425. There is also a Stainless 5 option, but it’s only available with a custom build.

The 9” model will hold up to 29 lbs of clay andtypically retails for between $520 and $650, and the die kit for this model costs around $150.

Overall, for most studios I would recommend the 4” model as that will be the easiest to extrude and 11 lbs of clay will result in a decent amount of extruded forms.

North Star 4” Stainless Extruder

The North Star 4” Stainless extruder comes with the 3 dies picture and the lockout plate.

The North Star 4” Stainless extruder comes with the 3 dies picture and the lockout plate.

In addition to the Big Blue Extruder, North Star makes a lever-style extruder with a 4” wide steel or upgraded stainless barrel. The lever is fixed, as opposed to the sliding style of the Bailey, making it a safer to operate. (There’s a chance of pinched fingers with the Bailey if you’re not careful). There’s also a lever extension that will help make extruding easier. The trade off with the fixed lever is the barrel is smaller, holding just 8 to 9 pounds of clay. But, this should still extrude hollow forms that are 15 to 18 inches tall or more, you’ll just have to reload the barrel a bit more frequently.

The North Star 4” Standard Extruder is made with mild steel.

The North Star 4” Standard Extruder is made with mild steel.

The compact size, fixed lever, simplicity of use, and optional stainless upgrade make this a great extruder for most studios. The steel barrel typically retails for around $370, while I’ve seen this stainless anywhere from $409 to $519, and the extruder does come with 4 coil dies. You will need to purchase the hollow die set separately.

Another consideration with either of these models is that there is a 6” expansion box that allows you to use the same dies as used in the Big Blue Extruder. If you wanted to keep open an upgrade possibility, this is the model for you.

The Stainless option exists for those who work in porcelain and want the smallest possibility of rust possible. But if you keep your extruder clean and maintained, it should stay rust free.

This extruder is available at many clay suppliers or direct from North Star.

Scott Creek 4” and 5” Extruders

The Scott Creek 4” Extruder

The Scott Creek 4” Extruder

Scott Creek makes a 4” round barrel and 5” square barrel extruder with an interesting twist: a stair-step lever crank that you move up and down as needed. These extruders also have a great feature: a quick-release die cap to make installing and switching dies a breeze.

Both models feature an aluminum barrel, which will never rust and can be used with porcelain. The barrels also can be removed from the wall mount for easy cleaning, which is a noteworthy feature for an extruder!

All in all this is a great system. You pay extra up front for features such as the aluminum barrel and quick-release end cap, but the ease of use will more than make up that cost over traditional steel extruders.

Scott Creek 5 inch extruder.gif

The 4” round barrel typically costs around $400 and the dies range from $52 to $140, and the 5” square barrel costs around $440 plus the dies. There are also expansion boxes for each model and associated dies, and Scott Creek makes table mounts and and a free-standing extruder stand.

With all this great stuff (especially that quick-release cap) I still would favor the Bailey system over these because of the flexibility of using the same die sets in different Bailey models. With the Scott Creek, you are locked in to that size die, or the specific expansion box that goes with that model. But if you take a look and find that the die sets and sizes work for your needs, then by all means, get one of these extruders. It will be a workhorse and there are many positive reviews of these models.

These extruders are available at speciality ceramic suppliers or directly from Scott Creek.

Brent Extruders

The Brent HD Extruder features a removeable barrel and quick-release end cap.

The Brent HD Extruder features a removeable barrel and quick-release end cap.

Amoco Brent makes two extruders, the STD and HD, that combine a lot of the best features of other manufactures in a typical overbuilt Brent style, allowing it to take all kinds of use (and abuse) such as what you might find in an academic studio. But you will pay extra, with each model clocking in around $650 to $700. This review will focus on the HD as it has some upgrade features and can often be found for a bit less than the STD, around $650.

The Brent HD extruder has a 4” round steel barrel that will hold up to 10 pounds of clay. The barrel attaches to the wall bracket with 2 quick-release pins, making it easy to remove and clean. It also has a twist-and-turn end cap to hold dies, making it way less fussy than the Bailey extruders. Another thoughtful feature is a built-in hook to hang the end cap when not in use. Finally, it has a “clutch” lever to facilitate either raising or lowering the plunger and lever.

In addition to the wall mount, Brent makes a table mount and a mount designed to fit on a Brent slab roller. Like Brent slab rollers, this is an overbuilt workhorse that does come at a premium price. A drawback is a relatively limited selection of hollow dies. In general, all round barrel extruders just don’t have as much space and die options as a similar-sized square barrel.

If you have a Brent slab roller or love Brent products, then go with this extruder. It’s well built and has a lot of features, but for the main thing that you want an extruder to do—extrude shapes, especially hollow forms!—this extruder has limitations. But custom dies might solve your problems. For more info on this model and dies, the Brent website has the best info but you might find it for sale for less at online retailers or ceramic suppliers..

Other Wall Mounted Clay Extruders

There are a few more extruders that are on the market. But with limited availability, I’m reluctant to recommend these until they are sold at more locations and it’s clear there will be long-lasting product support from the manufacturers. But if you see features and prices that work for you, go ahead and order a whole set up.

Crackpots Extruder

The Crackpots Clay Extruder

The Crackpots Clay Extruder

The Crackpots Extruder is a straight forward, fixed lever, round barrel extruder with a variety of interesting die options, especially from aftermarket die vendors on eBay. It typically retails for $199 or less, making it one of the most affordable wall-mounted extruders.

Find it at oldsashartisans.com.

 

Clay Master 4” Extruder

The Clay Master extruder is available at a few ceramic suppliers. It’s unclear who manufacturers this device and the die options are limited. But, other square 4 inch dies will most likely work with this extruder. It has a fixed or “anchored” handle and will hold about 8 pounds of clay. Find it at clay-king.com or other ceramic suppliers.

EX-115 4” Extruder

Another extruder with limited availability is the EX-115 4” Extruder. This model features a fixed lever, a round barrel, and square dies. Bailey or North Star dies will most likely work with this model. Find out more at clay-king.com.

Powered Extruders

If you have a production studio or just want an easier way to extrude, powered extruders are available. They are not the main focus of this article, but for more info check out these websites:

Bailey System 3 Power Drive, starts at $946 but you’ll need to order barrel, dies and other parts. See more at baileypottery.com

MudTools Push Extruder, $1,400. See more at mudtools.com.

Peter Pugger Hydraulic Extruder, $4999. See more at clay-king.com.

Extruder Tips

A few tips for getting the most out of your extruder.

  1. Keep it clean! A clean extruder stays rust free and functional. You can put a light oil on moving parts to keep things functional.

  2. For cleaning, get big blocks of clay out and if you have time, you can let other clay bits dry. Then knock them out and proceed with cleaning. It’s always easiest to clean completely dried clay.

  3. Use the most moist clay you can as this will be easier to extrude. But, if you are working with bigger forms, stiffer clay can hold more structure right away.

  4. Some people recommend spraying cooking oil inside extruders. I never do this for two reasons. 1) cooking oil can “gum up” if left sitting places and 2) while I do oil moving parts and hinges on extruders, there’s no need to mix any sort of oil with clay. Keep the barrel clean and use clay that is the right consistency, and it should be easy to extrude.

  5. Let forms “hang” for a bit before cutting off. This will allow them to stiffen up and stay true to form, which is especially important as you move into hollow shapes that are 4 inches in diameter or more.

  6. Protect your dies from being bent. Don’t over-push the lever or wheel as you can bend or ruin dies. If the machine won’t go any further, don’t push it.

  7. For project ideas, check out the books Extruded Ceramics or The Extruder Book.

Wall Mounted Clay Extruder Comparison Chart

This chart is organized first by barrel size and then alphabetically by manufacturer.

Model Typical Price Barrel
Shape		 Barrel
Diameter		 Barrel
Material		 Capacity Lever Detachable
Barrel		 Warranty
Bailey Standard 4 $309-$387 Square 4" Mild Steel 11 lbs Slide No 2 Years
Bailey Stainless 4 $346-$433 Square 4" Stainelss 11 lbs Slide No 2 Years
Brent STD $574-$675 Round 4" Mild Steel 10 lbs Slide No 1 Year
Brent HD $548-$685 Round 4" Mild Steel 10 lbs Slide Yes 1 Year
Clay Master $350-$420 Square 4" Stainless 8 lbs Fixed No ?
Crackpots $199 Round 4" Mild Steel 7 lbs Fixed No ?
EX-115 $350-$400 Round 4.5" Stainless 7 lbs Fixed No ?
North Star 4" Standard $370 Square 4" Mild Steel 8-9 lbs Fixed No Lifetime
North Star 4" Stainless $440 Square 4" Stainless 8-9 lbs Fixed No Lifetime
Scott Creek 4" $399 Round 4" Aluminum 8-9 lbs Stepped Yes 2 Years
Scott Creek 5" $460 Square 5" Aluminum 12 lbs Stepped Yes 2 Years
Bailey Standard 5" $340-$426 Square 5" Mild Steel 17 lbs Slide No 2 Years
North Star Big Blue $950-$1090 Square 6" Mild Steel 25 lbs Wagon Wheel Yes 2 Years
Bailey Standard 9 $517-$647 Square 9" Mild Steel 29 lbs Slide No 2 Years

Summary

Wall mounted clay extruders are a great tool in the studio. The are the best way to make hollow forms, such as tubes, squares, hexagonal or custom shapes. Most models also include a test tile form, which can speed up that process. Overall, all the extruders above will be long-lasting and durable. They differ on size, die options, lever options, and material. Overall, my favorite is the North Star Big Blue Extruder as I find it the easiest and most practical to use. But a simple lever option, such as the Scott Creek, North Star, or Bailey, are also affordable and durable.

What is your favorite extruder? Let us know in the comments.

Handheld Clay Extruder Buyer's Guide

The Shimpo Nidec Handheld Extruder comes with 5 aluminum dies and one blank.

The Shimpo Nidec Handheld Extruder comes with 5 aluminum dies and one blank.

Handheld extruders or “clay guns” are useful tools for making small runs of handles, coils, and small hollow forms. If you are looking to make a repeatable shape in a quick, efficient way, then a handheld extruder is what you need.

These extruders work like a caulk gun: you fill the barrel with clay, screw the cap over the die form, and repeatedly squeeze the trigger to push clay through the die. It can be a bit of a wrist workout, so definitely use soft clay with these.

There are four options when choosing a handheld extruder: 2 sizes from Scott Creek, and one each from Shimpo and Kemper. There are also two miniature clay extruders such as the Kemper Klay Gun, for making extremely small shapes, which I’ll cover at the end of the post.

It’s really a coin toss as all four handheld extruders are well made, but for most studios and hand sizes, I would recommend the Shimpo Handheld Extruder. For about the same price, the Shimpo Handheld Extruder comes with a few more dies than the Scott Creek, and I prefer the circular handle at the back as opposed to the bar handle on the Scott Creek models. And as this is a handheld extruder, I prefer the shorter and wider barrel of the Shimpo because it is easier to squeeze out the clay.

A full review of handheld extruders follows, including the three options from Shimpo or Scott Creek, and two options for smaller decorative clay extruders. For larger extruders, check out our guide to wall-mounted extruders here.

Table of Contents

  1. Shimpo Handheld Extruder

  2. Scott Creek Super Duper Clay Gun and Clay Gun XL

  3. Kemper IKEG Klay Extruder

  4. Small Extruders: Kemper Klay Gun and Bailey Clay Gun

  5. Summary

Top Pick: Shimpo Handheld Extruder

The Shimpo Handheld Extruder comes with 5 dies and one blank die.

The Shimpo Handheld Extruder comes with 5 dies and one blank die.

The Shimpo Hollow Die Kit has 8 shapes. The middle of each shape is screwed on to the larger piece at the bottom.

The Shimpo Hollow Die Kit has 8 shapes. The middle of each shape is screwed on to the larger piece at the bottom.

The Shimpo Handheld Extruder is a quality tool that lets you easily make shaped coils, small hollow forms, or handles. It’s basically a caulk gun with an aluminum barrel and dies. The threaded barrel is 2 1/4” wide and about 10 inches long. The entire model measures about 13 x 9 x 3 inches, weighs just a few pounds, and can easily be stored in a drawer. It can be entirely submerged in water for cleanup, but you may want to oil the hinges and moving metal parts as needed.

Shimpo 4-in-1 Die Kit has 8 shapes of varying sizes and an isolator die.

Shimpo 4-in-1 Die Kit has 8 shapes of varying sizes and an isolator die.

The Shimpo Extruder is the top pick because the kit comes with five dies and one blank, and I prefer the circular handle. I also find the the shorter barrel makes it easier to squeeze out the clay, even though that means more frequent refilling. But it’s really a coin toss if this is better than the Scott Creek Clay Gun and the choice really comes down to personal preference. In my studio, I use a Shimpo Handheld Extruder along with a mixture of dies from Shimpo and Scott Creek.

Shimpo has two die kits: one with a selection of eight hollow forms and another with eight “4-in-1” shapes of varying sizes. You can extrude all four sizes at once, or use the isolation die to select just one. The hollow forms are what most people go for, as those shapes would be extremely hard to make without a die, but both kits would really expand the options in your studio.

The Shimpo Handheld Extruder generally retails for around $60 and the die kits are about $40 each. You can find this tool at ceramic supply stores or online at Blick.

Scott Creek Super Duper Clay Extruder and Clay Extruder XL

The Scott Creek Super Duper Clay Gun.

The Scott Creek Super Duper Clay Gun.

The Scott Creek XL Clay Gun has a 15” barrel.

The Scott Creek XL Clay Gun has a 15” barrel.

Scott Creek makes two handheld extruders and five die kits. The Super Duper Clay Gun has a 10 inch barrel while the XL has a 15 inch barrel. Both feature a bar handle at the rear as opposed to the circular handle on the Shimpo. The barrel is 2 inches wide, which is 1/4” smaller than the Shimpo. Note that the Scott Creek die kits will definitely fit the Shimpo Extruder, but the Shimpo dies may not work with the Scott Creek guns. Both Scott Creek extruders come with one coil die and two blank aluminum dies.

The Scott Creek Handle Die Kit features 8 shapes cut out of clear acrylic. The Scott Creek Dies are compatible with the Shimpo Extruder.

The Scott Creek Handle Die Kit features 8 shapes cut out of clear acrylic. The Scott Creek Dies are compatible with the Shimpo Extruder.

Scott Creek extruders are rugged, well built, and will get the job done. They are a bit harder to find in stores, but are readily available direct from the manufacturer. Scott Creek also makes a hollow aluminum die kit with the same shapes as Shimpo, along with an aluminum die kit of small forms. There are also three die sets made out of clear acrylic including a “shape and coil” kit, tile trim kit, and handle kit. The handle kit is my most used die kit and I would recommend that kit regardless of which extruder you purchase.

Although it might seem attractive to use the larger XL Extruder, keep in mind that the longer barrel may be harder to clean and store, and it is that much harder to squeeze clay out. (Any handheld extruder really relies on wrist strength.)

The Scott Creek Super Duper Clay Extruder usually retails for around $55-60, and the XL goes for around $70, and the die kits generally cost about $40 each.

Kemper IKEG Klay Extruder

The Kemper IKEG Klay Extruder

The Kemper IKEG Klay Extruder

The Kemper IKEG Klay Extruder is an interesting offering from the venerable clay tool manufacturer. It’s even longer than the Scott Creek XL, with a barrel measuring 20 inches in length by 2 inches wide. It comes with 3 aluminum coil dies, 1 blank die, and 2 plastic spouts.

As stated above, I feel that a shorter barrel is easier to use but if you decide to go with this option, you can always just fill the barrel with less clay to make it easier to use. Aside from that, the trigger of this gun is virtually identical to the Shimpo with a circular handle. Kemper has a limited offering of dies, but Scott Creek dies will work with this extruder.

The Kemper IKEG Klay Extruder typically retails for around $60 and can be found at ceramic suppliers such as Bailey.

Mini Extruders: Kemper K45 Klay Gun and Bailey Clay Gun

These miniature clay extruders are useful for making texture or super small coils, such as for hair. They also work with polymer clay, so if you are working in miniatures, this is the clay extruder for you. For typical clay studios, these mini guns often sit unused in studio drawers but if you need a really specific shape, they may work for you. They are virtually identical but the Bailey set also comes with a handy plastic carrying case.

The Bailey Clay Gun is a miniature extruder.

The Bailey Clay Gun is a miniature extruder.

Bailey Clay Gun

The Bailey Clay Gun has 19 dies and a carrying case. It typically costs around $13. Make sure that whatever you put in the barrel is very soft.

Shop at Bailey

 
kemper-k45-klay-gun.jpg

Kemper Klay Gun

The Kemper Klay Gun also has 19 dies and typically costs around $13. It may be exactly the same thing as the Bailey Clay Gun, but it doesn’t have a case.

Shop at Blick

Summary

Handheld extruders are a great way to make small batches of similar shapes, such as handles or hollow shapes. For a long time, I thought of them as an extraneous tool but once I started using them, I found that I really liked the look of extruded handles. Definitely don’t get one of these if it will simply sit unused in a drawer.

With only four models on the market, all are basically the same with just a few minor differences, so you can’t go wrong. For me, I prefer the slightly wider and shorter Shimpo barrel but my favorite dies are the handle kit from Scott Creek. You will find your own combination that works for you.

The Best Sandpaper, Grinding Blocks, and Abrasives for Pottery and Ceramics

3M Pro Grade Sandpaper is a plastic-backed, long-lasting sandpaper that can be used wet for safe sanding.

3M Pro Grade Sandpaper is a plastic-backed, long-lasting sandpaper that can be used wet for safe sanding.

In ceramics, there’s always a need to sand something. Whether it is cleaning the foot of a pot or dealing with a massive glaze run on a kiln shelf, there are a few different tools that will really take care of these problems in effective, safe, and economical ways. This post will cover the best abrasives, sandpaper, and grinding blocks, as well as how to use them. You probably won’t need every single one of these tools, but they’re covered here so that you can find what will work best in your studio.

Safety note: Keep in mind that any sort of sanding or grinding can produce dust. Wear a dust mask or respirator, or when possible, sand wet.

Most Used / Top Pick: The thing I reach for the most is the plastic-backed, purple, pro-grade sandpaper made by 3M. (Pictured at top) It is economical, long lasting, and can be used wet. It’s a simple, versatile tool that has a place in any studio.

Table of Contents

  • Sandpaper

  • Grinding Blocks and Whetstones

  • Diamond Hand Pads

  • Silicon Carbide Stones for Power Tools

  • Wet Grinders

  • Sanding Tips and Tricks

  • Summary

Sandpaper

There are two sandpapers that I use in the studio: 3M Pro Grade Sandpaper and Emory Cloth. Other sandpapers, such as those designed for wood, don’t hold up under the heavy use needed with ceramics and clay. One advantage of sandpaper, as opposed to solid blocks, is that it is flexible and can be bent, creased, or cut into a variety of shapes if you need to sand hard-to-reach spots.

Detail shot of the front and back of the 3M Pro Grade No Slip Sandpaper.

Detail shot of the front and back of the 3M Pro Grade No Slip Sandpaper.

3M Pro Grade Sandpaper

The purple, plastic-backed 3M Pro Grade Sandpaper is the main tool in my sanding arsenal. It lasts longer than other sandpapers and can be used wet or dry. The plastic backing is advertised as “no-slip grip” and it is easy to hold and control, even when wet.

The paper measures 9 x 11 inches and is available in a variety of grits. I generally stock 80 and 150 grit, but a range of 4 grits from 60 to 220 would probably cover most needs.

The sandpaper can be found in smaller packs ranging from 3 to 6 sheets, or bulk packs with 20 or 100 sheets. 20 sheets will last a long time for individual use, or around 6 months for a busy academic or community studio.

A roll of Emory Cloth Sandpaper can be economical and functional.

A roll of Emory Cloth Sandpaper can be economical and functional.

Emory Cloth Sandpaper

Emory Cloth is a cloth-backed sandpaper that can also be used wet or dry, and the cloth backing makes it long-lasting and economical. Emory cloth can be found in sheets or in rolls. It is especially ideal for sanding the bottom of pots when they come out of the glaze firing, to clean up any small burrs or imperfections, or to remove kiln wash.

For emory cloth, I like to buy rolls so that I can cut or rip off just what is needed.

Grinding Blocks

There are a variety of grinding blocks that are useful in the ceramic studio. A block might be used in place of sandpaper, but I usually stock both sandpaper and blocks. The bigger blocks are especially useful for dealing with glaze drips and cleaning kiln shelves while a whetstone can be used to sharpen tools and clean up pots.

A silicon carbide rubbing block with a handle.

A silicon carbide rubbing block with a handle.

Silicon Carbide Rubbing Block

A silicon carbide rubbing block (or grinding block or brick) is one of the most effective ways to deal with glaze drips and to clean up kiln shelves and kiln posts. The blocks come in a variety of sizes, with or without handles, and some have fluting. The fluting is especially useful for grinding rough kiln shelves flat again. A flat-sided block is better for cleaning up the foot of pots or the bottoms of sculptures.

Detail of the fluted bottom of a typical silicon carbide rubbing block.

Detail of the fluted bottom of a typical silicon carbide rubbing block.

A longer, thinner, fluted silicon carbide rubbing block without a handle.

A longer, thinner, fluted silicon carbide rubbing block without a handle.

Silicon carbide blocks can be used wet, which is a plus for me because I’m always looking for ways to minimize dust in a studio.

A downside of these rubbing blocks is they are prone to cracking if dropped. This is especially a problem if you crack one with a handle. But don’t despair, the pieces are good until they are ground down to the last bit.

Another downside is they are typically on the rough side, around 20 to 60 grit. This is fine for kiln shelves, but you’ll want to follow up with something a bit finer, such as sandpaper or emory cloth, if you’re sanding the bottom of a pot.

The block with handles are typically 6” x 3” x 1”, but these sizes vary by manufacturer.

Aloxite Blocks and Whetstones

An aloxite sanding block.

An aloxite sanding block.

Available at ceramic suppliers, aloxite (aluminum oxide) blocks are smooth, hard, and extremely durable blocks. They are very long lasting, they don’t “shed” a lot of material when used, and they are especially great for sanding the bottom of pots.

Silicon carbide whetstone, with two grits — 120 and 240.

Silicon carbide whetstone, with two grits — 120 and 240.

Alternately, and easier to find, you can use whetstones designed for sharpening knives. Generally not as hard as aloxite, whetstones are another great option for cleaning small glaze runs, burrs, or rough patches on fired ceramic. They can also be used to sharpen studio tools, such as scissors or fettling knives.

Neither of these smaller blocks are particularly good for cleaning large areas of kiln shelves, but they’re great to use on pots.

Both aloxite stones and whetstones can be used wet, which keeps dust out of the air.

Diamond Hand Pads

Semi-hard foam-backed diamond hand pads from Stadea.

Semi-hard foam-backed diamond hand pads from Stadea.

Diamond hand pads are the perfect way to sand away burrs, small glaze drips, and rough patches on pots, sculptures, or kiln shelves and posts. Made of industrial-grade diamonds embedded in plastic, these are available from a variety of manufacturers as either soft, flexible pads or semi-hard, foam-backed pads. The foam-backed pads are my favorite because they provide structure and support your hand, but the flexible pads are useful for sanding more complicated shapes. Available as sets or individual pads, my recommendation is to get four individual pads in the range of 50 grit, 100 grit, 200 grit, and maybe 400 grit.

Semi-flexible diamond pads from Diamond Core Tools.

Semi-flexible diamond pads from Diamond Core Tools.

The soft pads are available from Diamond Core Tools, while foam backed pads are available from Diamond Core and other manufacturers such as Stadea or various generic names on Amazon. Expect to spend $15 to $30 per pad, but if used just when needed (use sandpaper for more everyday tasks), they should last for some time, maybe even years.

Like many other tools listed here, these can be used wet, which keeps sanding dust out of the air.

Shop semi-flexible pads at Diamond Core.

Silicon Carbide Grinding Wheels and Cups for Power Tools

A green silicon carbide bench grinder wheel.

A green silicon carbide bench grinder wheel.

If you have a bench grinder or angle grinder, you should get silicon carbide stones that fit these tools. Silicon carbide will grind through material such as glaze and ceramic without producing excess heat, and it’s the appropriate material to use with non-metallic materials including ceramic, stone, and concrete.

This especially comes in to play with using a bench grinder to clean up glaze drips. If it are not using silicon carbide, the wheel and glaze may get too hot, resulting in potentially dangerous melted bits of glaze. Stick with silicon carbide wheels that are properly dressed and kept in shape. (If you don’t have a dressing tool to keep your wheel even, definitely get one of those too.)

Silicon carbide grinding cups for use with angle grinders.

Silicon carbide grinding cups for use with angle grinders.

For angle grinders, there are also silicon carbide cups that can quickly clean kiln shelves. These are especially useful if you need to take off all the kiln wash and start with a fresh coat. Keep in mind that angle grinders produce a lot of dust, so do use this tool with caution. Or see the recommendation below about switching to a wet grinder for these types of uses.

Shop Silicon Carbide Grinding Cups at Amazon

Wet Grinders

Makita variable speed wet grinder.

Makita variable speed wet grinder.

Rather than an angle grinder, which definitely make a lot of dust, consider a wet grinder for quickly dealing with bad glaze runs or cleaning kiln shelves. A wet grinder has a water feed that keeps a stream of water flowing out of the center arbor hole on the grinder. They can spray water and sanded bits all over,, but if you have a tub or large sink to catch the water, it is not that bad.

It’s best to go with a quality wet grinder, such as a Makita or Flex. (I’ve personally been using a Flex brand grinder for about 7 years). If you carefully read reviews, the cheaper wet grinders can give small electric shocks or stop working after some use. For an electric tool that uses water, you definitely want a quality machine that won’t shock you! And while using, be sure to follow every safety protocol. Personally, in my years of using a Flex variable speed grinder, I’ve never felt one tiny shock.

A variable speed wet grinder is the way to go, as that allows you to control the speed. Slower speeds don’t whip as much water around. Wet grinders are generally used with diamond pads. As with hand pads, in my experience a range of grits from 40 or 60 to around 400 get the job done. I’ve had good luck with Stadea pads (shop at Amazon), both the 4 and 5 inch sizes. The lower grits can wear out quickly, depending on use, so you may want to order a few of those. I originally purchased an entire set that goes all the way up to 3000 and buff, but for cleaning up glaze drips, 400 suits me, so I prefer to purchase individual pads to use with the wet grinder.

One drawback with wet grinders is figuring out the right hose connection. Expect to make a few trips to the hardware store to find the right fittings to connect your wet grinder to a hose or faucet.

Sanding Tips and Tricks

A few ideas to put into practice in your studio:

  • Broken pieces of kiln shelves, especially silicon carbide shelves, make excellent sanding blocks and stones.

  • Rub the bottom of two pots together for a quick post-firing sanding / cleanup. This can be done wet under running water or dip quickly into a bowl of water.

  • A set of sharp chisels and a rubber mallet can help in removing glaze drips from kiln shelves, then follow up with sanding tools.

  • Check out our tutorial for a DIY Interchangeable Grinding Disc

  • Whenever possible, sand wet! It’s the safest way to keep dust out of the air.

Safety Note

Any type of sanding, grinding, or rubbing will create dust. Take appropriate precautions with wearing dust masks or respirators, and eye protection too, when sanding or using power tools.

Summary

This post has covered and reviewed a variety of sanding and grinding tools and abrasives for use with ceramics and pottery.

My most-used tools are sandpaper and a silicon carbide rubbing block, but I also have a wet grinder with diamond pads and hand pads. I also keep broken pieces of kiln shelves to use as grinding tools. All of this is done wet, when possible, or I use proper safety protection such as a dust mask and safety glasses when sanding. Sanding, grinding, and cleanup are an inevitable part of working with fired ceramic and the best tools will get the job done for you in a safe, effective, and long-lasting way.

What sanding or grinding tools do you use in the studio? Let us know in the comments.

Best Wheelthrowing and Pottery Sponges

Tack Sponges are economical, long-lasting synthetic sponges that are great for wheelthrowing and ceramic studios.

Tack Sponges are economical, long-lasting synthetic sponges that are great for wheelthrowing and ceramic studios.

For pottery and wheelthrowing, it is important to have a long-lasting sponge that doesn’t shred and fall apart after a few sessions. There are quite a few high-quality options these days, and also a lot of cheap generics that fall apart almost right away.

My favorite pottery sponge is a basic synthetic round yellow tack sponge. Designed for cleaning horses or polishing leather, these are also great for use in a ceramic studio. Tack sponges are more dense and long-lasting than other synthetic sponges, are comfortable, and get the job done.

There are a variety of tack sponges available for sale online, typically in 12 packs. Look for a a quality brand, such as Decker (and avoid Creative Hobbies “tack” sponges, which I believe are mis-labeled).

In addition to tack sponges, natural sponges and speciality pottery sponges are good options. You can also cut your own sponges from larger yellow sponges or upholstery foam. Our full review of pottery sponges is below, along with some ideas of the best ways to utilize sponges when throwing.

For a full review of heavy duty, rectangular yellow clean up sponges, click here.

Table of Contents

  1. Best Pottery Sponge: Tack Sponges

  2. MudTools Sponges

  3. Xiem Sponges

  4. Natural Sponges

  5. Other Sponge Options and Sponge Holders

  6. How to Cut Your Own Sponges

  7. Ways to Utilize Sponges in Wheelthrowing

  8. Summary

Best Pottery and Wheelthrowing Sponge: Tack Sponges

Decker Tack Sponges.jpg

Tack sponges are the best option for a pottery and wheelthrowing sponge. Soft but long-lasting, these synthetic sponges are also economical. Designed for cleaning horses, tack sponges have a fine-celled structure that is perfect for wheelthrowing and other uses in a ceramic studio.

To be honest, it can be hard to distinguish between synthetic yellow sponges, especially when shopping online. But through experience, I’ve learned to avoid sponges such as the “Creative Hobbies 25 pack” and other generics. These generics lose their loft and fall apart within a few weeks and while they may be fine for sponge painting or light-duty uses, they are generally not suited for intensive tasks such as wheelthrowing. That’s why it’s best to pay a bit extra and get tack sponges.

On Amazon, Decker is a brand you can trust (click the button below to shop). And if you have the chance to visit a ceramics store in person, you may find Kemper yellow sponges or other high-quality, round, yellow synthetic sponges.

Decker Tack Sponges are 3 inches in diameter by 1 inch high, and are available in a 12 pack that typically works out to a cost of about $1 per sponge.

MudTools MudSponge

The MudTools blue, orange, and white sponge.

The MudTools blue, orange, and white sponge.

The MudTools sponges are rib-shaped, and measure 2.63 x 3.75 inches.

The MudTools sponges are rib-shaped, and measure 2.63 x 3.75 inches.

MudTools makes three speciality sponges designed for use in ceramics. Shaped like a traditional pottery rib, they are available individually or in a 3 pack. The sponges range from a typical open-cell sponge structure to a fine-pored, denser sponge. MudTools calls these:

  • Workhorse, blue, (corse porosity)

  • Absorbant, orange, (medium porosity

  • Finishing sponge, white (fine porosity)

The blue “workhorse” sponge is the most similar to a typical yellow round tack sponge, so if you want something fine, go with the orange or white. Many prefer the densest white sponge for use as a wheelthrowing sponge, but all three will work on the wheel or for handbuilding.

The MudSponges do cost more, usually around $5 to $8 each, but are long lasting and the range of sponge density does give you options.

Xiem Studio Pro Sponges

Xiem Studio Pro Sponges

Xiem Studio Pro Sponges

Xiem Tools makes two Pro Sponges which are circular and have tapered edges. Available in corse, medium, and fine porosity, these are great sponges to add into the mix with a yellow tack sponge. They are modestly priced, typically around $4 each, are long-lasting, and do the job.

They are great sponges but there seems to be some supply chain difficulties, as they appear to be sold out everywhere online. You may see them in stores, and if so, they’re worth considering for your next throwing sponge.

Natural Sponges

Natural Sponges are a great option for pottery, and many potters use these exclusively.

Elephant Ear Sponges

Elephant Ear Sponges

Elephant ear sponges are dense, tough, thin, and are great for wheelthrowing. They are long lasting and do hold up to intensive use. While they are a favorite for many potters, I find them a bit too thin to hold comfortably while throwing, but I do use them for finishing and smoothing. It really comes down to how you hold a sponge and what you need them for. The sponges are available in different sizes, look for something around 3” wide or bigger. You can always cut sponges smaller if needed.

Value Sponge set wt wool, silk, and yellow sponges.

Value Sponge set wt wool, silk, and yellow sponges.

Other types of natural sponges, such as Wool, Silk, or Yellow sponges are great for decorative effects, such as sponge painting with underglaze, but I find them to be either too open or too prone to falling apart to be used for wheelthrowing. Your experience may differ.

Other Sponge Options and Sponge Holders

Creative Hobbies has a 25 pack of 2 1/2” round sponges

Creative Hobbies has a 25 pack of 2 1/2” round sponges

Generic round yellow sponges are available in bulk under a variety of names (sometimes mislabeled as tack sponges) such as Creative Hobbies. These may seem like a great deal, and they are good for sponge painting or other light-duty uses. But these sponges will not stand up to the intense use needed for wheelthrowing. Expect them to lose their loft and fall apart within a few weeks. I’ve order packs from Creative Hobbies a few times, but never again! Learn from my mistakes and stick to tack sponges, as detailed above.

Round Sponge Set.jpg

Round Sponges or Stipplers (sometimes labeled “Spouncers”) are one of my favorite sponge tools to use for glazing and other decorative effects, such as adding polka dots with glaze or underglaze. Available in sizes ranges from about 1/4” to 1” in diameter, these are a great addition to your decorative arsenal. There are not really any brand names, so go for a set that looks good to you. I’ve used both the blue foam and yellow foam; my instinct is that the blue foam is a bit finer and more long lasting, but both will work ok. They do break down over time.

Sponge Holders are a helpful tool for wheelthrowing and are most handy when you need to get water or slip out of the inside of a vessel. (If you leave water inside a pot you’ve just thrown it can cause cracking, uneven drying, and other problems). There are two main options for this: The Kemper Sponge Holder and the Xiem Tools X-Sponge Telescoping Sponge Holder. Is a tool like this really necessary? It may be, if you throw a lot of jars or vases with a narrow mouth. They can really help collect extra water or be used to smooth the inside of a vessel.

DIY TIP: If you don’t want to buy one of these speciality tools, you can take almost any stick (such as a drumstick) and attach a sponge to the end with a rubber band.

The Kemper Sponge Holder.

The Kemper Sponge Holder.

The Kemper Sponge Holder is a 13 inch long hardwood handle with a screw and small cup washer at one end. It comes with a sponge, and if that wears out, you can easily replace it with another sponge. Simple, effective, and durable, this is a great addition to your tool kit.

Xiem Telescoping sponge.jpg

The Xiem Studio X-Sponge 2 is a telescoping sponge holder that can extend from 8.5 to 26 inches, so it can really be deployed on some large pots if necessary. The sponge is a dense, long lasting, white foam sponge and there are proprietary replacement sponge heads available too. The sponge is very fine porosity, similar to the finest Xiem round sponge or the MudTools white MudSponge. The telescoping sponge holder is a real innovation and like all Xiem Studio Tools, is thoughtfully designed and well made. The dense, rounded sponge does give you more control than the yellow sponge attached to the Kemper stick.

How to Cut Your Own Sponges

ProPlus Grouting.jpg

One of the most economical sponge options is to take a large yellow clean-up sponge, and cut it into 8 or 12 pieces. My favorite sponge is the Armaly ProPlus Grouting and Concrete sponge, which is the best heavy duty clean up sponge I’ve found. (See a full review here).

To do this, you can draw lines on the sponge with a sharpie and then using a sharp chef’s knife or scissors, cut into pieces. The best way is to plan for 12 sponges—which is a pretty good value when you start with one large sponge.

It’s also great to cut big yellow sponges into pieces as they start to fall apart. These can be repurposed for clean-up sponges or use a rubber band to attach them to a stick for a DIY sponge holder.

How to Utilize a Sponge for Wheelthrowing

I prefer to throw with one sponge in my right hand. The sponge doesn’t necessarily touch the clay, but it is helpful for organizing my hand in a comfortable way, and as a small water reservoir. But there are as many ways to use a sponge as there are potters.

A few quick tips on sponges and throwing:

> When throwing, try holding no sponge, 1 sponge in your throwing hand, or 2 sponges (one in each hand). You will quickly find the method that works for you. Two sponges may be a great way for beginners to get the feel of clay and help focus the pressure.

> Keep in mind that you should have one point of pressure on the inside, and one on the outside. This could be a fingertip, a knuckle, or use a sponge to make that single point of contact.

> The best sponge is the one that is most comfortable for you. Check out the advice above, and try out a few sponges. Experience is the only way to figure out what works for you.

> Set up a large yellow sponge for easy clean up of your wheelhead or any spills / splashes. They are also great for wiping your hands. I wipe and clean my hands often when throwing, especially if I am going to touch a switch on the wheel, or switch to a shaping tool such as a rib. Large yellow sponges are the best way to quickly clean your hands.

Summary

This post has reviewed small sponges for use while throwing on the wheel, and given advice on other sponge tools along with a few DIY tips and ideas of how to use a sponge. The top recommended sponge is a synthetic round yellow tack sponge, but there are a lot of options.

What sponges do you use? Any tips for sponges and wheel throwing? Let us know in the comments.

Gift Guide For Potters and Ceramic Artists

UPDATE: Click here for our new 2023-24 Gift Guide!

Looking for a gift for a potter? Or perhaps ideas of how you can treat yourself? This post includes gift ideas for someone who works with clay and has sections for gifts under $25, $50, $100, and concludes with other ideas.

When shopping, keep in mind that most potters probably already have a basic tool kit and a few others tools. In a separate post, we’ve also got a handy guide to the best tools for pottery beginners, and there are many other posts on this site with reviews of tools we love.

Note: This site uses affiliate links for sites such as Amazon and Blick. If you click the links and complete a purchase, we may receive a percentage at no extra cost to you.

Gifts Under $25

Kemper Clay Drill

The Kemper Clay Drill

The Kemper Clay Drill

This single tool is a workhorse and replaces an entire set of hollow hole punches, many of which are more difficult to use and clean. The Kemper Clay Drill is easy to use, a breeze to clean, and is the best way to make holes in greenware for teapots, flower pots, lamp cords, or wherever you need a hole. This quality steel tool can drill a hole as small as 1/16” of an inch or as big as 3/4”. Simple insert and twist, and keep drilling to your desired diameter. The beveled edge results in a clean, even hole. It’s one of my favorite tools and usually costs around $4 to $5, making it a perfect stocking stuffer.

Xiem Studio Tools BatMate

The Xiem Studio Tools Bat Mate

The Xiem Studio Tools Bat Mate

The BatMate from Xiem Studio Tools is a 12-inch diameter piece of synthetic fabric that can be placed in between a bat and wheel head to virtually eliminate any wobble, improving the accuracy of throwing and trimming. Many potters, however, wet the fabric and place it directly on a wheel head to use when trimming pots. Pots will stay put just by tension, without adding little balls of clay wadding. This saves time and works just as well. At around $15, this is a tool that gets used all the time once it’s in a potter’s kit.

Hand Cream

Weleda Skin Food

Weleda Skin Food

Pottery and clay can be hard on hands, especially in the colder months and any potter will appreciate some nice lotion. Our favorite everyday cream is O’Keeffe’s Working Hands Cream (shop at Amazon), but if you wanted something more fancy, the Weleda Skin Food is a rich, luxurious cream that will help protect hands during a long studio session or at home.

Another favorite of many is Potter’s Skin Butter from Cara Mae Skincare. (For a complete look at hand creams, check out our studio hand cream review here. )

There are many great lotions, but I love Skin Food because it is extra thick, smells great, melds into your skin quickly, and the squeeze tube makes it easy to use at home or studio. It usually costs around $19 for a 2.5 oz tube.

Mini Ribbon Tool Set

Mini Ribbon Tool Set

Mini Ribbon Tool Set

This set of 6 tools is great for detail work, decorating, and finishing a piece of pottery or a sculpture. At 5 1/2” each, the metal tools don’t take up much room but they can do a lot. I don’t like to have dozens and dozens of tools, but I always have a set of these nearby, especially for detail work or scraffito. For around $13, it’s a great addition to a potter’s tool kit.

Xiem Studio Tools Precision Applicator

The 3 oz Precision Applicator from Xiem Studio Tools.

The 3 oz Precision Applicator from Xiem Studio Tools.

Another awesome tool from Xiem is the precision applicator, available in 1 and 3 oz sizes. The applicators have a soft, flexible rubber bulb with a variety of screw-on metal tips. Mostly used for slip trailing and slip decoration techniques, these bulbs can be used to apply just about any type of thicker, viscous liquid. The larger 3 oz size will be the best option for most. There are cheaper slip-trailing options that are a plastic bottle with similar metal tips, but the rubber bulb in the Xiem applicator provides steady, even pressure that is just easier to use. For around $20, this is a quality tool.

Green Split Leg Apron

revcoapron.jpg

This green split-leg apron is popular with many of my students and has a few features that make it a nice upgrade from a standard kitchen apron. Made from cotton, it has an adjustable, clip-on neck strap and it also has clips to attach the split legs to either leg. Some may prefer a longer apron (such as the Claypron) but this apron covers the thighs and the split-leg design makes it perfect for sitting at the pottery wheel. Usually available for $20 to $25, the Revco green apron is available in 36”, 42” and 48” lengths.

For our complete guide to aprons, click here.

Harbor Freight Canvas Rigger’s Bag

The Harbor Freight Canvas Riggers Tool Bag.

The Harbor Freight Canvas Riggers Tool Bag.

This canvas tool bag has plenty of pockets and space to keep things organized, which is especially important if you work in a shared studio. As many pottery tools are quite small, it is helpful to keep everything together. And as this is open and made from cloth, you can put tools in immediately after cleaning and they will dry out and stay rust free. Usually available for around $25, this canvas tool bag will last for years of heavy studio use.

Neiko Diamond-Coated Drill Bits

5 piece diamond coated drill bit set from Neiko.

5 piece diamond coated drill bit set from Neiko.

Diamond-coated drill bits are the best way to drill holes in bisque or glaze-fired ceramics. (Do this with plenty of water and eye protection, and you’ll also need a cordless drill) While there are numerous name-brand and generic drill bits for cutting accurate holes, this set from Neiko is a great way to get started with diamond bits. Ranging from 5/32” to 1/2”, the Neiko bits are a good size for tasks such as drilling cord holes in ceramic lamps or adding drainage holes for planters. At $10 or less, the Neiko bits are a cost-effective addition to any ceramic studio.

Fun T-Shirts at Society6

Retro 70s Pottery T Shirt

Retro 70s Pottery T Shirt (Shop at Society6)

The website Society6 has a lot of fun and interesting t-shirts and other merchandise with pottery and kiln themes. 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.

Society6 is a print-on-demand site where artists and designers can upload their own designs and they make a percentage of the sale price, so not only are you getting a cool gift, but you’re supporting other artists and designers too.

Evolution of Pottery T Shirt

Evolution of Pottery T Shirt (Shop at Society6)

Kintsugi heart pottery t shirt

Kintsugi Heart T Shirt (Shop at Society6)

Gifts Under $50


Mastering the Potter’s Wheel by Ben Carter

Mastering the Potter's Wheel.jpg

This approachable book is great for beginners and intermediate pottery students. The thorough, straightforward advice covers a variety of throwing techniques and how to alter and modify those thrown forms. The book even includes a section on stretches and ways to avoid a sore lower back. Published in 2016, it’s a great addition to any potter’s book shelf.

Mastering the Potter’s Wheel, 208 pages, 8 x 10”, 2016, $30

Shop at Bookshop.org

Shop at Dick Blick

Shop at Amazon

Zebrawood Carving Tool

The P1 Zebrawood Carver from Diamond Core Tools.

The P1 Zebrawood Carver from Diamond Core Tools.

The Zebrawood Carvers from Diamond Core Tools are functional, long-lasting (replaceable blades!), and beautiful. At 5.5 inches long, they feel like a pencil and can be used for sharp, even cutting tasks such as scraffitto and other forms of decoration. Diamond Core makes these with a wide variety of cutting blades—the P1 is a great carver to start with. At $37 each, these are on the expensive side for a ceramic tool but the adjustable blade and beautiful wood makes this a great gift for any potter.

Magna Cart

The Magna Cart.

The Magna Cart.

If you work with clay, you need to move stuff all the time. Whether it is boxes of clay, packaged ware for shipping, or large sculptures, the Magna Cart is an invaluable tool that folds up for efficient storage when not in use. Store it in a closet or the trunk of a car, it’s a handy tool that will get used all the time. The cart can hold 150 lbs (I’ve pushed it to 200 and that can be too much), has 5” rubber wheels, a 15” wide base and the handle can extend to 39” tall. There are a lot of folding carts on the market now in all shapes and sizes, but the classic Magna Cart is still the best option.

10,000 Years of Pottery by Emmanuel Cooper

10000 Years of Pottery.jpg

This lavishly illustrated book is a great addition to any potter’s bookshelf. Tracing the history of ceramics from the Ancient Near East through contemporary times, the book covers all parts of the globe along with the arts and crafts movement, ceramics and industry, studio ceramics, and more. Originally published in 1972, the book has been updated continuously since. The most recent 4th edition is available as a paperback for $30. My favorite thing is to just flip through this book for ideas and inspiration—it’s 360 pages long there are full-color pictures on almost every page.

Diamond Hand Pads

Stadea semi-hard foam-backed diamond hand pads.

Stadea semi-hard foam-backed diamond hand pads.

Semi-flexible diamond hand pads from Diamond Core Tools.

Semi-flexible diamond hand pads from Diamond Core Tools.

Diamond hand pads are the perfect way to sand away burrs, small glaze drips, and rough patches on pots, sculptures, or kiln shelves and posts. Made of industrial-grade diamonds embedded in plastic, these are available from a variety of manufacturers as either soft, flexible pads or semi-hard foam-backed pads. The foam backed are my favorite because they provide structure and support your hand, but the flexible pads are useful for sanding more complicated shapes. Available as sets or individual pads, my recommendation is to get four individual pads in the range of 50 grit, 100 grit, 200 grit, and maybe 400 grit.

The soft pads are available from Diamond Core Tools. The foam backed pads are available from Diamond Core and other companies such as Stadea. Expect to spend $15 to $30 each for one pad, but if used just when needed (use sandpaper for more everyday tasks), they should last for some time, maybe even years.

Shop diamond sanding pads at Diamond Core Tools

Shop Stadea diamond sanding pads at Amazon


Gifts Under $100

Banding Wheel

Shimpo Banding Wheels are heavy duty and come in five different sizes.

Shimpo Banding Wheels are heavy duty and come in five different sizes.

Banding wheels are very useful studio tools for coil building, sculpting, and decorating. And a high-quality design such as Shimpo banding wheels will last for decades or longer. Made of cast iron with sealed bearings, the Shimpo banding wheels are the best on the market. 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 $60 to about $120. For more info, read our complete review of banding wheels, but of the options on the market, there is no doubt that these are the best.

Handheld Extruder

The Nidec Shimpo Handheld Extruder

The Nidec Shimpo Handheld Extruder

A handheld extruder is one of the best ways to make handles or other shapes in a quick, efficient way. Basically a specialized version of a caulking gun, soft clay is inserted in the 2” wide barrel, a die is placed at the end, the cap screwed on, and you can pull the trigger and the plunger begins pushing clay through the die. You can also use hollow dies to make small forms that would be almost impossible to make by hand. Until I used one, I was skeptical that this was a useful tool but now I’m a convert—It’s my favorite way to make handles that are uniform and easy to use. For clean up, the whole tool can be plunged under water if necessary.

There are a variety of handheld extruders, which are all about the same, but the Nidec Shimpo Handheld Extruder is compact and well built. The key is getting dies that work for. In addition to the basic dies, my favorite add on is the Scott Creek Handle Die kit, which should match up with any small handheld extruder. The Shimpo Handheld Extruder is usually around $60 and extra die kits generally cost around $40.

MudTools Essentials Kit

The MudTools 9-piece Essentials Starter Kit

The MudTools 9-piece Essentials Starter Kit

MudTools makes innovative tools such as their beloved flexible plastic ribs, and this Essential Starter Kit includes nine of their most popular tools in one kit. A great gift for pottery beginners, experienced potters will also appreciate this kit. Included are three flexible polymer ribs, the Mudshark cutting tool, a cut-off wire with polymer handles, a long plastic scraper/rib, a sponge, the MudTools all-in-one trimming tool, and the MudTools shredder. At around $70, this is a great gift option for every potter. For more info, read our guide here on beginner pottery tools here.

Note: Some marketing describes this as a 10-piece kit, but I would classify the plastic holder as a “tool.”

Other Gift Ideas

Pottery Wheels

Thinking of getting a new wheel as a gift? Check out our guide to table top wheels here, and our guide to full-size wheels here.

Cordless Drill

A drill is a functional, useful tool and a new one can make a great gift. Check out our buyer’s guide to cordless drills or corded drills.

We’ve got a lot of ideas in our various tool guides. Other ideas for gifts include scales for glaze mixing, accessories for glaze mixing, or maybe even tools that can be used in the kitchen or the studio.

Other Gift Ideas:

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 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

Check out these posts:

2022 Gift Guide for Potters and Ceramic Artist

Gift Guide for Young Artist and Creative Kids

Gift Guide for Artists Who Paint and Draw

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Table Top Pottery Wheel Buyer's Guide

The Speedball Artista table top wheel.

The Speedball Artista table top wheel.

The Shimpo Aspire table top wheel.

The Shimpo Aspire table top wheel.

NOTE: For an updated version of this guide, click here.

If you need a lightweight, compact pottery wheel your best option is a table top or portable wheel. These are especially popular for classrooms, at-home use, or if you need to put your wheel away on a shelf or closet. You can still 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.

For portable wheels, there are basically two options:

Speedball Artista: A lightweight wheel with an 11” wheelhead and 1/3 HP motor (Shop Artista at Blick)

Shimpo Aspire: A lightweight wheel with a 7” wheelhead and 1/3 HP motor (Shop Aspire at Blick)

For full size wheels that can easily be converted to table top wheels, there are another two options:

Brent IE models: an entry-level full sized wheel that without legs is just 13” tall and can be used on a table top. (Shop IE at Blick) (Note: The IE models appear to have been discontinued as of 2021)

Shimpo VL-Whisper: Our top pick for a full size wheel, the VL-Whisper has a unique magnetic motor design that allows it to be used without legs as a table top wheel. (Shop VL-Whisper at Blick)

This guide will cover each of these models to help you make the decision that is right for you.

Table of Contents

  1. Speedball Artist Portable Wheel

  2. Shimpo Aspire Portable Wheel

  3. Brent IE Wheel

  4. Shimpo VL-Whisper

  5. Other Table Top Options

  6. Comparison Chart

  7. Summary

Speedball Artista Table Top Wheel

The Speedball Artista wheel is designed for table top use but has optional leg attachments.

The Speedball Artista wheel is designed for table top use.

The Speedball Artista is a popular table top pottery wheel that has optional foot pedal and leg attachments. It has a 1/3 horse power motor, an 11” wheelhead, can center up to 25 lbs of clay, and weighs just 26 pounds. The wheelhead, which has standard 10” bat pins, sits just 3 5/8” above whatever surface you set this on. That’s a lot of options in a small package that usually costs around $450 to $500.

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 optional legs and foot pedal will add about another $200 to the cost, giving you basically a full size pottery wheel. I wouldn’t recommend getting the Artista and all the attachments if what you really want is a full-size wheel (Check out the Speedball Clay Boss for that), 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 this is great option. It’s also a great wheel for kids, hobbyists, or that you can add to the corner of a classroom or home studio.

Shimpo Aspire Table Top Wheel

The Shimpo Aspire pictured with the optional foot pedal.

The Shimpo Aspire pictured with the optional foot pedal.

The Aspire is 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 Aspire costs about the same as the Speedball Artista, generally around $480 to $530, but unlike the Artista, it is solely a table top wheel. It does not have optional legs, but there is an optional foot pedal for an extra $60. The wheel head is small, but adequate for the amount of clay it can handle. And there are a variety of bats that will fit the 6” bat pin spacing.

The decision here is a bit simpler than with the Artista because it is a dedicated table top machine that is lightweight and dependable. Aside from the optional foot pedal, it doesn’t have a lot of bells and whistles but it’s a quality Shimpo machine that might be the right wheel for your situation.

Brent IE Pottery Wheel

The Brent IE-X, the upgraded 1/3 HP version of Brent’s entry-level wheel.

The Brent IE-X, the upgraded 1/3 HP version of Brent’s entry-level wheel.

Note: as of spring 2021, the IE wheels are no longer listed on Brent’s website and appear to have been discontinued. You may still find them at some suppliers, or used.
The IE is the entry-level wheel from Brent, and while not exactly a portable wheel, it does feature adjustable legs that allow it to be easily used as a table top wheel. In this configuration, the wheelhead sits 13” above the surface it is placed on. The IE weighs around 90 lbs so once it is placed on a table top, you’re probably not going to want to move it that often.

The IE has a 1/4 horse power motor, a 12” wheelhead, a 75 lb centering capacity, a top speed of 240 RPM, and the legs are adjustable from 20 high to 25” high. The base IE model can be upgraded to the same features with a reversing switch (the IE-R model), or the IE-X features a 1/3 HP motor with a 14” wheelhead.

The IE will give you the same dependable quality that Brent is known for, but to me, it’s a model that doesn’t really fill a niche. With a base price of around $1200 to $1300, it is a LOT more expensive than an entry-level budget wheel such as the Speedball Clay Boss. And it’s not too much cheaper than a really great, more powerful wheel found in the Brent line or other manufacturers.

Where the IE does shine is the flexibility for table top use. If you want a full-size table top wheel and you prefer Brent wheels, than this is the wheel for you.

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 not only our top-rated full-size wheel, it is also a great option for table top use. With the virtually silent, magnet-driven wheel, the VL-Whisper has a flat design that can sit on a table top when the legs are removed. Like the IE, the wheelhead does sit relatively high off the table top, but 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 (or 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. At a typically price of $1350–$1450, it hits that sweet spot of great performance and options, while being in about the middle of the price range for full size wheels.

While it can be a table top wheel, the VL-Whisper is certainly not portable or that easy to move and put away. But if you are comparing it to the IE, it’s got a lot more options for just a bit more money. It’s a great wheel.

Other Table Top Wheel Options

US Art table top wheel.jpg

Another option is the U.S. Art Supply 3/4 HP Table Top pottery wheel. It has a stronger motor than other table top options, an 11” wheelhead with proprietary 3-pin bats, can go forward and reverse, tops out at 300 rpm, has a foot pedal, and weighs around 43 lbs.

They have really packed a lot of features into this table top wheel and it is in the same price range as the Artista and Aspire—around $500, though it is heavier.

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 Artista or Aspire. And for around $200 more, you could get a full-size wheel like the Speedball Clay Boss.

In addition to the U.S. Art Supply table top wheel, there are a variety of generic wheels for sale. They range anywhere in price from $150 to $500, so they seem like a great budget option. But you may end up with a machine that breaks down quickly and is not well built. In general, I would go with the trusted pottery wheel manufacturers that provide a 2, 5, or even 10 year warranty on their wheels. The last thing you want is to buy a junky machine, so go with a wheel that will stand the test of time.

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 $459–$567 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 $480–$565 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 $500 3/4 HP 11" Custom 3 pin design Yes, switch 17 x 26 x 13" 42.3 lbs 0-300 1 year 25 lbs
Brent IE $1,198–$1,475 1/4 HP 12" 10" Optional upgrade 21 x 26 x 13" high or 20-25 with legs" 93 lbs 0-240 5 years 75 lbs
Brent IE-X $1,348–$1,685 1/3 HP 14" 10" Yes, switch 21 x 26 x 13" high or 20-25 with legs" 93 lbs 0-240 5 years 100 lbs
VL-Whisper $1,250–$1,550 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. Portable wheels work for kids, classrooms, home use, or if you need to bring a wheel for a demo. If you just want table top wheels, you can also easily modify a few heavier full-size wheels to use on table tops. The wheels covered in this post are all well-built, dependable options for table top use, and a few are light enough to be truly portable. Given the choice, I would recommend a full-size wheel such as the VL-Whisper, but if you are going for your first wheel or need a lightweight, portable option, dropping $500 on the Shimpo Aspire or Speedball Artista will get you a wheel that will hold up under years of use.

What table top pottery wheels do you prefer? Let us know in the comments.

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