Pottery can be a rewarding hobby that doesn’t necessarily have to break your bank account. A bit of savvy shopping and MacGyver-inspired creativity can help keep your pottery supplies costs down.
A basic set of clay tools can be found for less than $30. You can also buy a complete kit of pottery tools for a little more money, but these are usually used by potters who use the wheel.
Online Suppliers
The main items needed for pottery are clay and a way to heat it. Pottery wheels and kilns are a significant investment that may be beyond the budget of some new potters. However, they are essential tools for sculpting and shaping clay.
Another option is to buy used equipment. Many online marketplaces and local pottery shops offer gently used kilns, wheels and other equipment at a fraction of the price of new ones. Another way to save money is to prioritize essential equipment over accessories or novelty items. Once a beginner has the basic essentials, they can expand their equipment gradually as their skills and knowledge grow.
Other essential pottery supplies include a kiln, which is a furnace or oven used to fire clay and glazes. Its firing temperature and duration can significantly impact the final appearance and strength of a piece.
A wheel-thrown piece of pottery requires a tool called a bat, which is the flat surface that supports it while it’s being shaped on the potter’s wheel. A wire clay cutter is a flat tool with a length of wire held between two handles, which can be used to cut large blocks of clay or remove wheel-thrown pieces from the bat.
Other essential pottery tools include a sponge, which can be used to moisten clay, smooth surfaces or clean up slip. Oxides and stains are paint-like pigments that can be added to glazes, slips or clay bodies to add color.
Local Clay Communities
Pottery can be a rewarding hobby that doesn’t necessarily have to break your bank account. A bit of savvy shopping and MacGyver-inspired creativity can help keep your pottery supplies costs down.
Many communities are working to break down the barriers to clay, including the cost of materials and equipment. For example, a community clay studio designed for ceramicists by ceramicists can offer access to a variety of different tools at a fraction of the cost of purchasing them individually.
Other initiatives such as the Clayground mass-making events have helped to reclaim the centre of cities for making and shared imagining. These events, which have been held across the world, are also a powerful way of introducing people to the art form and giving them confidence in their own creative ability.
Even if the basics are covered, there can still be significant out-of-pocket costs for those who want to take their pottery skills to a higher level. Pottery wheels and kilns, for instance, can be quite costly. One option to alleviate this problem is for potters to start with cheap pottery supplies and gradually upgrade to higher quality gear as they gain experience and expertise. This can be a great way to keep pottery fun and affordable for any hobbyist.
Second-Hand Equipment
Pottery is often considered one of the more expensive hobbies to get into. While it’s true that a kiln and pottery wheel are substantial investments, there are ways to save money on the supplies you need to get started. Taking advantage of sales and discounts, shopping around for the best deals, and focusing on essential equipment can all help make pottery an affordable hobby for anyone.
Another great way to save money on pottery supplies is to purchase second hand equipment. Several online marketplaces and local pottery stores offer gently used kilns, wheels, and tools for a fraction of the cost of new items. Purchasing used equipment can also be a great way to try out different styles of pottery before investing in a permanent set up.
Having plenty of storage space in your home pottery studio is essential for keeping all of your tools, materials, and finished pieces organized and easy to find. This will also allow you to create a dedicated area for pottery that helps foster creativity and inspiration.
Having a dedicated pottery space can really transform the way you work. It provides a sanctuary to work in that is free from distractions and allows you to fully immerse yourself in the creative process. In addition, it will give you a place to share your love of pottery with others in a fun and exciting way.
Clay and Glazes
Pottery is a fun and rewarding hobby that doesn’t have to break the bank. A little savvy shopping and recycling will help you get started for less. Once you’ve landed on the bare necessities, you can add to your studio over time as your budget allows.
Clay and glazes are not cheap, but there are ways to minimize the costs by prioritizing essential equipment over luxury items. You can also save by buying used kilns and pottery wheels, as well as second-hand tools from online marketplaces and local potter’s swap meets. Purchasing pre-fired clay is another great way to cut costs for newcomers.
There are many different types of clays available on the market, and each one has its own advantages and disadvantages. If you’re just starting out, it’s best to stick with a basic, food-safe clay, as it will be easier for you to work with at first.
Glazes are also expensive, but there are some great ways to save money by shopping for them in bulk. These Amaco glaze sets, for example, come with one pint of Ironstone, Chun Plum, Saturation Gold, Seaweed, and Textured Turquoise, and are a fantastic value.
For quality supplies at affordable prices, check out Midsouth Ceramics (midsouthceramics.com). They offer a wide range of clay, tools, and equipment perfect for both beginners and seasoned potters alike. Whether you’re in need of clay, glazes, or essential tools, Midsouth Ceramics has you covered. Happy potting!
