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Ceramics and Pottery

Getting Started in Ceramics

So how do I start?

Depending on where you live, you may choose a college class, a community workshop, or a private teacher. Many areas have experienced artists willing to hold private classes. If these resources are unavailable to you, check the nearest library for self-teaching videotapes and books. While these may be very good, one-on-one instruction is much better.

What tools will I need?

Until you’re sure of your commitment to this art form, don’t worry about expensive equipment. The best tool to start with is an inexpensive rolling pin! With this simple instrument, you can hand-build many beautiful pieces and satisfy your creativity.
The Potter’s Wheel—New or Used?

If you decide to invest in a wheel, consider a new one. Used wheels are in short supply and are unpredictable with problems --such as annoying noise and uneven throwing--that increase your time, expense, and frustration. A new wheel is a better investment because it eliminates these problems and should last for years. 

What about the kiln?

Many aspiring artists lose interest, or are forced to give up this craft rather quickly, so before you buy a kiln, check out community resources or private studios where you can fire your work. Most supply shops can put you in touch with a studio willing to allow you to use their kiln. Additionally, you can check our kiln timesharing list to see if there is a kiln owner near you who is willing to rent you space. This is an excellent option until you decide that buying your own kiln will be worth the expense. Most cost more than $1000. A smaller kiln costs less and is quite adequate for jewelry and other small pieces. Like any good piece of equipment, more money buys more automated, fool-proof features such as one-button firing.

Reasons To Set Up Your Own Ceramics Studio

Only in your own studio can you achieve the level of attention, consistency, and creativity necessary for a higher quality, more satisfying work!

In your own studio, you’ll avoid the problems common in a group setting: no control of your work, tools, equipment, firing temperatures, and glazing; breakage and/or smeared glazes from others’ handling your work; unwanted mixing of glazes; wax and glaze brushes being interchanged; inadequate supply and maintenance of equipment; and having your personal tools and supplies getting stolen.

Also, in creating ceramics, many forms such as hand-building, texturing, trimming and complicated pieces require tedious, constant attention in checking the clay for the proper degree of dryness to determine if it’s too dry, needs to be dampened more, ready to be worked, etc.. This amount of attention is difficult and often impossible in a group studio. It’s extremely difficult to give the degree of attention, consistency, and creativity required for truly good work.