Starting your journey in ceramics is exciting — but when you begin shopping for tools, the options can be overwhelming. From sponges and ribs to wire cutters and trimming tools, where do you start? Which tools are essential, and which can wait?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the 10 most useful tools for beginners. These are the items that will make your first experiences with clay easier, more enjoyable, and more productive.
Whether you’re hand-building or throwing on the wheel, having the right tools can make a huge difference.
1. Potter’s Rib
The rib is a flat, curved tool used for smoothing, shaping, and compressing clay. It comes in different materials — wood, rubber, or metal — each with its own texture and flexibility. Wooden ribs are great for shaping bowls and plates, while rubber ribs are ideal for smoothing surfaces.
A rib might seem simple, but it’s one of the most used tools in a ceramicist’s toolkit.
2. Needle Tool
This sharp, pointed tool is used to trim edges, score pieces before joining, pop air bubbles, or test thickness. It’s a precision instrument that helps with detail work — like leveling the rim of a pot on the wheel.
Don’t confuse it with a pin — this tool is sturdy and built for clay.
3. Wire Clay Cutter
Usually made with two wooden handles connected by a length of wire, this tool is essential for cutting clay from a block or removing a finished piece from the wheel. It creates a clean, even cut and is surprisingly satisfying to use.
Pro tip: Always keep one nearby — you’ll use it more than you think.
4. Sponge
Simplicity meets utility. Sponges are used to add or remove water, smooth surfaces, and clean tools. Natural sea sponges are especially soft and effective, but synthetic ones work well too.
Use one in your throwing hand when working on the wheel — it helps maintain moisture and control.
5. Loop Tools
Loop tools have metal loops on the ends and are used for carving, hollowing, or trimming excess clay. They come in various sizes, and some are double-ended for added versatility. These are essential for trimming the foot of a pot or sculpting details in hand-built forms.
Start with a medium-size loop — it’s the most versatile.
6. Wooden Modeling Tools
These come in many shapes and are great for hand-building, detailing, and refining your form. While they can be used on the wheel, they shine when working with slabs or coils.
Each shape has its own specialty — experiment to find your favorites.
7. Wire Brush or Scoring Tool
When joining two pieces of clay (like a handle to a mug), scoring is essential. A wire brush or a serrated rib can roughen the surface to help the pieces bond securely.
Combine scoring with slip (a water-and-clay mixture) to ensure a strong connection.
8. Trimming Tools
Often confused with loop tools, trimming tools are sharper and made specifically for carving and refining leather-hard clay. They’re most useful when shaping the base or foot of a thrown pot.
Some beginners avoid trimming early on, but learning it gives your pieces a professional finish.
9. Banding Wheel or Turntable
Even if you’re not using a full pottery wheel, a small turntable or banding wheel makes hand-building easier. It allows you to rotate your piece as you work, helping with symmetry and detail work.
It’s especially useful for painting, glazing, or carving patterns evenly.
10. A Reliable Apron and Towel
Ceramics is messy — and that’s part of the fun. But keeping yourself and your workspace manageable makes for a better experience. A sturdy apron and a few clean towels will help you stay comfortable and focused.