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Ikea Genomsnitt Scale

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  There are a few tools which seem to be more versatile in the ceramics business than a scale. I originally purchased this scale from Ikea  so I could weigh my clay in an attempt to make pieces more similar in shape. Starting with the same size ball of clay has done wonders for my craft; possibly even a borderline superstitious obsession but, has no doubt assisted me in improving my technique over time. By taking the same amount of clay and seeing how far you can stretch the walls up without making them too thin, or working on making sure the clay makes its way from the bottom to the top in nice even lines. It's all part of the craft and can be both magical and defeating.  I did however, end up using my scale for many more things including weighting out glazing materials, weighing my finished pots for online sales/shipping costs. I also used my scale to take measures for pricing out my pottery by documenting the amount of glaze and clay each piece takes. This particular m...
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Shimpo VL-Whisper Potters Wheel with Leg Extenders

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I got my first taste of throwing on a wheel through an introductory pottery class offered by the local city arts and culture services programs. I remember the instructor telling us the wheel could spin either way, and then confusing myself about which direction was the best direction for me.  Like many new potters I sent clay flying because I had way too much water in all the wrong places. I made all the rookie mistakes, but I loved every second I spent in the studio. The instructor took us through a variety of techniques, and my passion for wheel throwing bloomed. There were a variety of wheels to test drive, which was great for determining what kind of features I wanted in a wheel of my own.  Ultimately, I realized I preferred standing to sitting, in much the same way I prefer to work at a standing computer desk rather than sitting. When I decided I was investing in a wheel of my own, I opted for this model and I have zero regrets about waiting for her to arrive, or paying e...
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Skutt Kiln KM-1027

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  Let me preface this post by saying my knowledge of kilns is, well, lacking. Acquiring a kiln, in my mind, is one of those rights of passage as a potter that takes you from a hobbyist to something a bit more serious. Don't get me wrong, I am sure there are plenty of potters who have a successful business who do not fire their own pieces and I am certain there are plenty of kilns collecting dust in garages or basements somewhere, but for me it means just a little bit more to have one of my very own.  Having the ability to fire my own pieces, on my own terms, has been a dream of mine since I first started to play with clay and I am just so grateful.  These things reach temperatures of well over 2500F. It's intimidating, space occupying, and frankly a luxury.  I was fortunate enough to find my Skutt KM1027 used, and she's been good to me.  I really couldn't tell you if its the best or most versatile or whatever, but I can tell you I am extremely proud.  ...
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