So, you’ve decided to take the plunge into the ancient and oddly satisfying world of pottery. Whether it was that charming Instagram post of a perfectly imperfect mug or a deep-seated desire to feel the earth between your fingers (minus the dirt under your nails), you’re here. Welcome!
Now, let’s get you set up with the minimum gear you need to start turning lumps of clay into Instagram-worthy creations.
If you’re a beginner, consider starting with hand-building pottery techniques like pinch pots or slab building. These methods don’t require a pottery wheel and can help you understand the clay body and how it reacts.
But if you are ready to go all in and do some wheel-throwing, keep on reading!
First thing’s first, you need clay. But not just any clay...
While digging up dirt in your backyard might seem rustic and adventurous, it’s probably not the best starting point. Head to a local craft store and grab some basic pottery clay. Trust me, it's better this way in the beginning.
Explore different types of clay, like earthenware stoneware, and find what suits you the most. Air-drying clay is a good option for people without a kiln. It doesn't need the high temperatures of traditional pottery.
Where to buy:
Alright, this might sound fancy, but you don’t need a top-of-the-line wheel to start. In fact, many beginner potters start with a simple, kick wheel or even a tabletop wheel. If that still sounds like too much commitment, you can always roll (pun intended) with hand-building techniques first.
But let’s be honest, nothing beats the drama of a spinning wheel!
Where to buy:
You don’t need a hundred different tools to start. A basic pottery toolkit usually includes:
Where to buy:
The firing process is essential for hardening your pieces and here’s the kicker – kilns can be pricey and bulky. But, don’t fret! Many communities have shared studios where you can rent kiln space.
Alternatively, you can look for local pottery clubs. They’re like book clubs but with more mud. And if all else fails, there's always the bonfire method, but that’s a whole other blog post.
Don't forget the finishing touches. Applying a pottery glaze to your creations will add color and a waterproof finish.
Where to buy:
You’ll need a sturdy table. Not your dining table unless you enjoy eating crunchy bits of dried clay with your dinner. A wooden table or even an old desk works great.
Expect to get messy. Like, really messy. An apron or some old clothes will save you from looking like a walking clay sculpture. Embrace the mess; it's part of the charm.
Water is essential for keeping your clay moist and workable. A small bowl will do the trick. And remember, pottery is thirsty work. Keep a separate drink for yourself unless you like the taste of muddy water.
Store your clay in plastic bags to prevent drying out. Plastic bags are also handy for covering pieces in progress. Think of them as the Tupperware of the pottery world.
Okay, so you can’t buy these at the store, but they’re crucial. Pottery takes time to master. Your first piece might look more like a squished potato than a vase, but that’s okay. Every lopsided bowl is a step towards greatness.
If you find yourself in Larnaca, Cyprus, don’t miss out on our beginner-friendly pottery workshops at Bloody Pottery studio. Located in the heart of Larnaca, our studio offers hands-on guidance and a creative environment to explore the art of pottery.
There you have it—your minimalist guide to starting pottery. With these basics, you’re ready to dive into the mud-slinging, wheel-spinning world of ceramics. Remember, the goal is to have fun and create something uniquely yours, even if it’s a bit wonky.
So, get your hands dirty, embrace the chaos, and who knows? Maybe your next masterpiece will be the talk of the town. Happy potting!
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