6 tools

Clay & Preparation

Everything that happens before the wheel turns: choosing a body, wedging out the air, reclaiming scraps and getting moisture even.

Good pots start in the clay bin. This category covers the bodies, boards, machines and storage that turn a block of raw material into a consistent, workable mass. Wedging removes air pockets and evens out moisture; a pug mill does the same job at volume; damp boxes hold work at the leather-hard stage so you can come back tomorrow.

Wedging

Stoneware Clay

A durable, mid-to-high-fire clay body that throws well, takes glaze predictably and survives thermal shock in everyday use.

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Wedging

Wedging Board

A plaster-topped table that absorbs excess water and anchors the clay during kneading, so air pockets and soft spots get worked out before throwing.

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Wedging

Pug Mill

A hopper, an auger and a vacuum pump: the pug mill wedges, blends and de-airs hundreds of kilograms of clay far faster than hands can.

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Wedging

Plaster Bat

A plaster disc used instead of a plastic bat when you want the base of a form to dry from underneath, so wide or fragile pieces release without distorting.

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Wedging

Damp Box

A lidded bin that keeps the air around a pot at high humidity, so a piece can be left at the leather-hard stage until you have time to trim it.

Clay Prep Read →
Wedging

Slip

A creamy suspension of clay and water used to join parts, lubricate the wheel, cast in moulds and decorate greenware.

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