How to Begin Making Earthenware Pottery at Home: Tools and Essentials

Making earthenware pottery at home can be a rewarding hobby or a serene art form. While you can certainly start without a pottery wheel or clay, there are several essential tools and steps you need to know to get started. This guide will cover everything you need to know to begin your pottery journey.

Essential Tools and Equipment

To get started making earthenware pottery at home, you'll need a few key tools and pieces of equipment. While a wheel is not mandatory, it can make the process faster and easier, especially if you're interested in throwing rather than building.

Kiln or Alternative Firing Methods

A kiln is the most common and ideal way to fire your pottery, as it ensures even heat distribution and consistent results. Kilns come in various types, including gas and electric, and can range from small home models to large professional kilns. If a kiln is out of your budget, some low-fire earthenware clay can be fired in a wood-burning kiln, and some potters even use a wood fire method, using natural materials like a corncob for smoothing and a tin can to retain heat.

Basic Tools and Equipment

Here are the essential tools you'll need to get started:

Kneading bench: A surface for kneading and shaping the clay. Wire: A wire cutter to section off ‘new’ clay. Stool: A comfortable stool for sitting at the wheel. Throwing tools: A set of basic tools, including a wire rib, turning bat, and sponge. Water bowl: A container for keeping your hands and tools moist. Removing tools: A wire to safely remove the finished piece from the wheel. Drying shelves: Racks to air-dry your pieces as they harden.

Exploring Pottery Classes and Resources

While you can learn a lot from books and online resources, taking classes can be incredibly helpful. Pottery classes are often offered at local community colleges, museums, and adult education centers. These classes not only teach practical techniques but also provide guidance on specific equipment and clay types. Many potters are warm and welcoming, creating a supportive community.

Additional Considerations and Benefits

Once you've fired and shaped your pottery, you may want to glaze your pieces. Glazing adds a protective layer and enhances the aesthetic appeal of your work. You can purchase or formulate glazes and learn techniques for waxing your pieces before glazing. Taking pottery classes can provide the necessary knowledge to achieve the best results.

Starting with a beginner's set or enrolling in a pottery class can provide you with the foundational skills needed to create beautiful earthenware pottery. Whether you're placing an order online or attending a local class, there are many options to get started with pottery. Enjoy the creative journey and the satisfaction of your handmade creations.