I promised some of my students that I would list the basic tools they should have in their kit. One woman I know had trimming tools that were so dull- she may as well have been using a butter knife. Sometimes students use only communal studio tools and never realize or know just how much easier it is to use good , sharp, appropriate toos.
First - my disclaimer. This is not a complete list , not a comprehensive list. It is meant to be a start for the serious beginner or intermediate student. Pin tool, wire, towel, gum - all that goes without saying.
Tools are very personal and as you develop as a potter you find the ones you love and hate. I Like tools that feel good in the hand and do a good job. I am a Bison fan and a Bamboo fan.
TRIMMING
- Loop
- Double tipped - small round and triangle
- Triangle
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All Ceramic Supplies sell these |
This is totally helpful for getting the bottom of a pot really flat. Love this - Bambootools.com |
SPONGES
- Get a big Grout Sponge and cut it into 2" and 1" squares and triangles.
- I also like a few round ones
- I always keep the very small, tight pore makeup triangles that you can buy in the drug store.
RIBS- Ribs come in a variety if firmness. There are really rigid ones and there are floppy ones. Have some of each. I like the ones with the holes for your fingers- easy to grip for newbies.
- Rubber
- Wood
- Bamboo
Kemper and Lots of other companies make rubber ribs. |
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Great shape for bowls and rounded things and makes a nice chubby rim. My favorite |
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These are great all around for cleaning up and never get water logged. | Another favorite. Bambootools.com |
OTHER
LOVE THESE
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Metal rib that is serated all around. Fantastic for scoring stuff. |
ALL TIME FAVORITE for hand building. The YUMI from bamboo tools. This one I keep several of because I use it so often. Afraid I will misplace it and freak out:) |
LASTLY
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