Getting started: Essential Tools in the Beginning

When I first got into pottery, I was eager to dive in with just my hands and a block of clay. And while there’s a certain freedom to creating with just the basics, I quickly realized that a few trusty tools can make a world of difference. If you’re starting your hand-building journey, here’s a guide to the must-have tools that helped me turn lumps of clay into (mostly) recognizable shapes.

1. Clay -- First things first, you need clay—the star of the show. In my first class, we were introduced to 5 different types of clay.  They all had their positives and negatives, but once class was over, I decided to focus on learning with a basic earthenware clay because it’s forgiving and great for beginners, then graduating to stoneware clays. You can find clay at your local art supply store or pottery studio.

2. Rolling Pin -- A rolling pin isn’t just for baking cookies. It’s a hand-builder’s best friend for flattening slabs of clay. Any sturdy rolling pin will do, but if you want to get fancy, you can find ones specifically designed for pottery, often with adjustable thickness guides.

3. Wooden Slats or Guides -- Speaking of thickness, consistency is key. Wooden slats help you roll out perfectly even slabs. They’re like training wheels for hand-building—super handy when you’re starting out.  My first slats were sticks of basswood that were ¼”, 5/16” and 3/8” thick.  Just remember, buy two of each thickness.

4. Needle Tool -- This little guy is a lifesaver for cutting, scoring, and adding fine details. Think of it as the Swiss Army knife of pottery. You’ll use it more than you realize.

5. Sponge -- A sponge is essential for smoothing and adding moisture to your clay. It’s like giving your clay a mini spa treatment. Keep one handy to clean up surfaces and your hands, too.  You can never have too many sponges and are about the cheapest supply you can buy.

6. Wooden Rib and Metal Rib -- Ribs help you shape and smooth your pieces. Wooden ribs are great for larger surfaces, while metal ribs give you a super smooth finish. They’re simple, effective, and oddly satisfying to use.  I’ll talk at a later time about how I discovered rubber ribs, and have never looked back.

7. Wire Cutter -- A wire cutter is essential for slicing through clay blocks with ease. It’s also great for cutting slabs and portions, ensuring you don’t overdo it with your clay allotment.

With these tools in your arsenal, you’re well on your way to creating hand-built pottery masterpieces. Remember, practice makes progress, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Feel free to leave any comments in the box provided below. Happy building!