Published 23 May 2023
Starting out as a new potter | Tips, tricks and things to avoid!
Ceramics has grown exponentially in popularity over the past few years, namely through the sultry tiktok videos and Instagram reels of potters on their wheels sending all their viewers into hypnotic states.
This may have brought out the potter in you but maybe you’re at a loss as to where to start. Follow some of our helpful pointers to get you into the ceramic rhythm.
Initially and cheaply, you can try out simple techniques at home by using air-dry clay which doesn’t require professional firing. You can find this kind of clay in all craft shops along with some basic tools.
Pinch pots and slab construction techniques can easily be applied to this type of clay and, once finished, you can decorate your piece with acrylic paint that can act as your desired glaze.
Find Your Pottery Community
Go find your local pottery community and sign up for a few sessions. In most towns and cities there will be pottery classes that you will be able to join.
Once you start, you will no doubt be hooked by the process and catch the ceramic bug.
Use Free Learning Resources
Youtube has a wealth of information with hundreds of free videos that can guide you through every stage of your ceramic career and fascination.
This will be a useful tool for the self-taught and at-home potters who don’t have access to pottery classes.
Take It Slowly
It’s a marathon and by no means a sprint, everything takes time and deserves patience.
Pinterest is the antithesis of inspiration for aspiring potters. Popular images found on Pinterest are from practitioners that have been working with ceramics for years - don’t expect to make something so elaborate on your first few tries.
Despite how tiktok makes it look, the wheel is not as easy as it may first seem. It’s a battle of forces that deserves patience and time, lots of time, so take it easy and listen to your instructor.
Most of all, have fun. It’s a wonderful skill to have under your belt and once you’ve got the hang of it, you will be sorted for birthday gifts for friends and family for life.