What Is The Best Thing To Roll Clay On?

Clay is a soft, pliable material made up of minerals and organic compounds that can be molded when wet and hardened by heating. It has been used for centuries to create pottery, sculpture, bricks, and tiles. Properly rolling clay is an essential step in working with clay to achieve an even thickness and smooth surface.¹

When rolling out clay, it is pressed and flattened using a rolling pin or slab roller. Having a proper prepared surface underneath is crucial to prevent the clay from sticking and allow it to be rolled uniformly. The surface must be smooth, durable, and nonporous. It should also withstand some water exposure when working with wetter clay.

Wood

Wood is a common material used as a rolling surface for clay. Some of the advantages of wood include its availability and low cost. Solid wood boards and bamboo boards can easily be found at craft stores or hardware stores for an affordable price. Wood also provides enough grip to prevent slippage when rolling out clay.

However, wood does have some disadvantages as a clay rolling surface. The absorbent nature of wood can draw moisture out of the clay, causing it to dry and crack. Wood can also develop grooves and divots over time which then get imprinted into the clay. Oils from clay may also stain and discolor the wood. Treating the wood with mineral oil minimizes these issues but requires reapplication over time.

Canvas

Canvas is another popular surface for rolling out clay slabs (The Ceramic Shop). Canvas has some benefits over other surfaces:

Canvas is absorbent, so it won’t cause the clay to stick while rolling. However, the canvas needs to be tightly woven and stretched tight on the slab roller to prevent absorption of water from the clay (Bailey Pottery). If the canvas absorbs too much water, it can dry out the clay. Tightly woven canvas with an even weave helps prevent this.

Properly stretched canvas gives an even, smooth rolling surface. Canvas also tends to be cheaper than other options like glass or marble. It’s easy to cut custom sizes as needed for different slab roller widths.

Tempered Glass

Tempered glass is a very common surface for rolling out clay. It provides an extremely smooth and nonporous surface that allows the clay to glide easily without sticking. The glass is an inert material that will not react with or discolor polymer clays ([Tempered Glass vs Ceramic glass – Differences, Pros, …](https://www.fabglassandmirror.com/blog/tempered-glss-vs-ceramic-glass/)).

However, tempered glass sheets designed for clay work can be quite expensive. Standard glass also tends to scratch more easily over time with repeated use. These scratches will make the surface less perfectly smooth. Using soft pads under the clay as it’s rolled can help minimize scratching ([As Clear as Glass: The Pros and Cons of Glass Restaurant …](https://www.gofoodservice.com/blog/as-clear-as-glass-the-pros-and-cons-of-glass-restaurant-dinnerware)).

Tempered glass is an excellent option for clay work if you don’t mind the higher upfront cost. Just be sure to care for the glass properly to maximize its longevity. Using a glass surface will provide very smooth, nonstick action when rolling out conditioned clay.

Marble

Marble is a popular choice for rolling out clay thanks to its naturally very smooth and cold surface. The smoothness prevents the clay from sticking while the cold temperature helps keep the clay firm as you work (Source). Because marble is heavier than other options, it offers a sturdy, stable surface that won’t shift as you roll out the clay.

However, marble can scratch or stain quite easily, especially compared to surfaces like glass or acrylic. Acidic substances are particularly problematic and can damage or discolor the marble over time. Marble is also relatively heavy, so large slabs may not be portable. Still, many potters appreciate marble’s naturally smooth cold surface for keeping clay from sticking while rolling out clay (Source). With some care and maintenance, marble makes an excellent surface for rolling and conditioning clay.

Plexiglass

Plexiglass, also known as acrylic glass, is a good option for rolling out polymer clay. Plexiglass provides a smooth, nonporous surface that clay won’t stick to. This makes plexiglass ideal for achieving an even thickness when rolling out clay. Plexiglass sheets are also relatively affordable and easy to find.

One downside is that plexiglass can scratch more easily over time compared to glass or marble. The scratches can then transfer to the clay. To help minimize scratches, consider using a plexiglass sheet dedicated just for clay rolling rather than a multi-purpose sheet.

Silicone

Silicone mats provide a flexible, nonstick surface that makes clay rolling easy. The pliable silicone allows you to bend the mat to fit on any work surface and prevents clay from sticking as you roll. Silicone mats like the Aves Studio Clay Mat are a popular choice for polymer clay artists.

However, silicone mats need replacing frequently. The soft surface can become damaged over time from exposure to oven temperatures, and clay particles can get embedded in the pores. Frequent kneading and rolling causes silicone mats to warp and degrade faster than other materials. Expect to replace a silicone clay mat every 6-12 months with regular use.

Comparison

When choosing the best surface for rolling clay, there are pros and cons to consider for each option:

Wood: Wood provides a smooth, non-sticky surface and is easy to clean. However, it can warp over time with clay use. Fine dust from sanding can also get stuck in the clay (The Pottery Wheel).

Canvas: Canvas is inexpensive, portable, and provides good texture for rolling. But canvas can absorb water from clay leading to sticking. Rough canvas textures may also imprint on soft clay (Reddit).

Tempered Glass: Glass gives an ultra-smooth surface and is easy to clean thoroughly. However it can be heavy, slippery, and prone to scratching over time.

Marble: Marble stays cool while rolling clay and provides a smooth texture. But it is very heavy and needs extra surface area for stability.

Plexiglass: Plexiglass is lightweight, smooth, and easy to transport. However, it can warp with exposure to clay over time.

Silicone: Silicone mats are flexible and prevent sticking. But they tend to be smaller and not ideal for large projects.

For small projects, silicone mats provide the best non-stick surface. For rolling out slabs, large sheets of tempered glass offer an ultra-smooth studio option. Canvas is great for traveling clay workshops. Wood boards work nicely for general at home use.

Tips for Rolling Clay

When rolling out clay, it’s important to take care of your work surface properly. Here are some tips:

Make sure to clean your work surface thoroughly before and after working with clay. Clay can leave behind residues that can affect future projects. Use warm water and a mild detergent to wash off any clay. Allow the surface to fully dry before rolling again.

To keep clay from sticking while you’re rolling, lightly mist the surface with water. You can also dust it with cornstarch or a light coating of cornstarch mixed with water. The cornstarch helps absorb moisture and prevents sticking. Just go lightly on the cornstarch, as too much can leave a chalky residue on your clay.

Avoid pressing down too firmly when rolling or your clay may stick. Use only as much pressure as needed to flatten and smooth the clay. Rolling too aggressively can also unintentionally thin the clay.

Take breaks while rolling large pieces of clay. Fold the clay in half and rub the folds together to keep it pliable, then resume rolling. This prevents cracking from overworking the clay.

Keep your hands and rolling tool clean by wiping them down periodically with a damp cloth. Built up clay residue can mar the surface of your clay.

Conclusion

Preparing your work surface properly is one of the most important steps before starting any clay project. Taking the time to choose the right foundation that suits your needs will ensure smooth rolling and shaping, prevent sticking and warping, and lead to a successful end result.

When it comes to the best all-around material for rolling out clay, tempered glass and plexiglass sheets offer the ideal combination of a smooth, non-porous surface that won’t bond with clay, is easy to clean, and provides a perfectly flat base. Marble is another great choice, although it can be heavy and more difficult to transport. Canvas and wood sheets are more affordable options but require extra preparation and maintenance to prevent sticking.

With the right rolling surface and tools, you’ll be ready to start crafting stunning clay creations in no time. Taking care of your work area will lead to a satisfying clay rolling experience from start to finish.