Top 5 Tools Every Potter Should Own

Common causes of collapsed pots and how to strengthen your throwing technique.

When you’re starting out in ceramics, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the walls of tools in any supply shop. But the truth is, you only need a handful of essentials to begin your journey in clay.

Here are our top five pottery tools every beginner should own:

1. Needle Tool
Perfect for scoring, trimming rims, or checking thickness. It’s one of the simplest, most versatile tools in your kit.

2. Wooden or Rubber Rib
Used to compress, smooth, and shape your pots. Ribs help refine form and reduce cracking. Keep a couple in different shapes.

3. Wire Cutter
Used to slice clay from a block and remove pots from the wheel. Look for one with wooden handles and stainless wire — it’ll last longer.

4. Loop Tool
Great for trimming bases and carving surface designs. Essential when you start refining foot rings or shaping forms post-throwing.

5. Sponge
Sounds simple, but it’s key. A small natural or synthetic sponge helps manage water and smooth surfaces while throwing.

Final Tip
Quality matters more than quantity. Start with the basics and let your toolkit grow with your skills.

Want to put these tools to use? Explore our Courses or join a Studio Access session to practise.