Getting Started in Pottery by Kristen Cozart

Setting Up Your Kiln

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Loading Your Kiln

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Resources for the Emerging Potter

kmcozart — 2025-03-20 15:28:34 UTC

A collection of resources to help jumpstart your newfound interest in pottery!

What is Pottery?

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What tools do I need?

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An explanation of each tool needed in pottery.

Choosing a Pottery Wheel

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Wheels are not cheap, so consider searching for a used pottery wheel for starters!

Selecting Your Clay

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It is recommended to reach out to your local pottery studio or supplier to purchase clay, but here is a great place to order online and take a look at the variety.

Step 1: Wedging Your Clay

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Improperly wedged clay will result in heartbreaking wheel errors!

Step 2: Centering Clay on the Wheel

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Centering your clay is a must in order to achieve symmetry and balance.

Seagrove: North Carolina's Pottery Highway

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Learn about North Carolina's rich pottery culture!

Step 3: Opening Your Clay

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Step 4: Pulling For Beginners

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A Budget-Friendly Starter Tool Kit

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As always, consider shopping at a local pottery studio or art supplier. If not, you can find affordable options online.

Find a Class Near You!

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It is highly recommended to start your pottery journey with formal, in-person instruction. What better way to support the local art community while also learning a new skill! Also, many community colleges offer pottery classes and are usually more affordable options.

Kiln Share

kmcozart — 2025-03-20 16:33:42 UTC

Not ready to own a kiln? Check out Kiln Share and connect with local kiln owners so you can fire your beautiful pieces!

Choosing a Kiln

kmcozart — 2025-03-20 16:35:10 UTC

Kilns are not just plug-and-play appliances! It is important that you study, observe, and do your own research before introducing a kiln into your living space.

Creating Your Pottery Space

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Drying Your Pieces

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Understanding the Drying Stages

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Make Your First Mug

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Make Your First Bowl

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Make Your First Plate

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Time to Glaze! (What does that mean?)

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Glazing Techniques

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Don't forget to trim!

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Trimming takes places during the drying process, when your clay is leather hard. This is how you trim any excess clay and add final touches before going in the kiln.

Making Handles

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Trimming Tools Explained

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A Clean Wheel is a Happy Wheel

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Storing Your Clay

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Recycling Your Clay

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Build Your Glaze Library

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Sell Your Creations!

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Have a pottery collection that is starting to take up space? Share it with the world!

Reddit Pottery Community

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Pottery Events in North Carolina

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