What Do You Wear To Throw Clay?

Throwing clay on a pottery wheel is the process of shaping clay into pots, vases, bowls, and other vessels using a spinning circular disk called a potter’s wheel. As the wheel spins, the potter uses their hands to mold a lump of soft clay that has been centered on the wheel into the desired shape. Throwing clay requires practice and skill to center the clay properly and achieve an even form.

Throwing is one of the most popular techniques in pottery and ceramics. By using the centrifugal force of the spinning clay, potters can quickly shape fluid, symmetrical forms that would be difficult to achieve by handbuilding techniques like coiling, slabbing, or pinching. While simple shapes like cylinders and bowls are common first projects, experienced throwers can create intricate decorative forms, handles, and spouts using a combination of throwing techniques.

Top Considerations

When choosing what to wear for throwing pottery, there are three key factors to consider – comfort, mobility, and protection from mess.

Comfort is crucial, as you may be sitting at the wheel for an extended period.Tight or restrictive clothing can become uncomfortable over time. Opt for loose, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Baggy shirts or pants can get in the way, so aim for a comfortable fit that isn’t overly snug or loose ¹.

You’ll need full mobility and range of motion when working with clay, so avoid anything too confining. Long sleeves or pants that can catch on the wheel are not ideal. Leggings or tights allow flexion without getting in the way ².

Protect your clothes from mess by wearing an apron or clothes you don’t mind getting some clay or water on. Many potters keep old t-shirts or pants specifically for throwing sessions ¹.

Tops

When choosing a top to wear for throwing clay, you’ll want to avoid loose or dangling pieces that could get in the way. Look for tops made of breathable, natural fibers that won’t cause you to overheat while working at the wheel or handling clay. Some good options include:

• Fitted t-shirts or tank tops made of cotton or bamboo. Stay away from low cut necklines if you don’t want to flash any cleavage when leaning over the wheel.

• Close-fitting short sleeve shirts that won’t drag through the clay. Roll up long sleeves or secure them with arm garters.

• Snug sports bras or camisoles layered under loose tops to keep them contained.

• Avoid baggy sweatshirts, scarves, ties, dangling jewelry or embellishments that could dip into the clay and make a mess.

The key is finding breathable tops that fit close to your body and won’t flap around or come untucked when throwing. Synthetic fabrics that don’t breathe well can cause you to sweat excessively at the wheel.

Bottoms

When choosing bottoms for throwing clay, opt for stretchy pants that are form-fitting but not too tight. Loose, baggy pants can get in the way when working on the pottery wheel. Stretchy leggings, yoga pants, skinny jeans, or slim fit sweatpants are recommended by potters (Reddit, 2023). The stretchiness allows for full range of motion while bending and turning on the wheel. However, pants that are too tight and cling to your legs can limit mobility as well. Find bottoms that are just snug enough without restricting movement.

Avoid loose harem pants or anything too baggy, as the excess fabric can get twisted up or stuck while kicking the wheel or wedging clay. The material of your pants matters too – choose something that is comfortable, breathable, and washes easily since clay can stain clothes. Avoid jeans or pants with thick seams that may irritate you while sitting at the wheel for long periods of time. Opt for a soft, stretchy athleisure material that allows flexibility and wicks moisture (The Pottery Wheel, 2023). Your bottom half is just as important as your top half when it comes to having the right range of motion for throwing clay!

Footwear

When selecting footwear for throwing clay, you’ll want shoes that offer good support and traction to keep you steady at the wheel. The soles should have grip to prevent slipping on damp clay splatter on the floor. Many potters recommend shoes like Crocs, Birkenstocks, or athletic sneakers with good treads (Source). Avoid slippery materials like leather, and opt for footwear with straps or laces to keep shoes securely on your feet.

Since clay, water, and glazes can stain or damage shoes, choose a style that is easy to clean and wash off. Some good options are shoes with removable footbeds that can be tossed in the washing machine. Canvas shoes tend to wash up nicely. Consider wearing an older pair that you don’t mind getting messy in the studio. Avoid open-toed shoes which offer less protection from falling clay and tools.

Aprons

When choosing an apron for throwing clay, look for one that is waterproof and offers full coverage to protect your clothes underneath (The Best Aprons for Pottery, Ceramics, and Art Studios). The apron should be made from a sturdy, non-porous material like vinyl, plastic, or rubber that can withstand getting wet and dirty.

Opt for an apron with adjustable straps that go over the shoulders as well as around the neck and waist. This will allow you to customize the fit and ensure maximum coverage of your torso, arms, and legs while throwing on the wheel (Pottery Apron on Amazon). Consider an apron with a split leg design to allow more freedom of movement and prevent the apron from getting tangled.

Look for an apron that is long enough to protect your lap and legs when sitting at the wheel. Waterproof smock style aprons in materials like rubber and vinyl provide great protection from splashes and spills (Pottery Aprons at Clay-King). An apron with pockets can also be useful for holding small tools and supplies while working.

Hair Ties

Unique Pottery Hairstyles for a Creative LookEncyclopedia of Pottery Hairstyles

When working with clay, it’s important to keep your hair out of the way. Loose hair can easily get coated in clay, which can be difficult to wash out. Ponytails or headbands are recommended to keep hair tidy and away from your face and work area.

Pulling your hair up into a bun or ponytail on top of your head is a practical option. This keeps nearly all of your hair contained so you don’t have to worry about it hanging in your face. Wrapping a bandana or headband around your head to cover your hairline will catch any shorter loose strands.

If your hair is too short for a ponytail, a headband can help keep it back. Look for wider headbands that will cover more of your hair. You may want to use bobby pins or hair clips to secure any shorter front pieces.

Having your hair tied back neatly will allow you to fully focus on the clay without distraction. It will also keep your hair clean and free of drying clay that could be difficult to wash out later.

Jewelry

When working on the pottery wheel, it’s best to avoid wearing bulky jewelry pieces that could catch clay while throwing. Rings can collect clay underneath, which many find annoying. Bracelets, necklaces, and dangling earrings could all get in the way or even get caught in spinning clay

Opt for minimal, close-fitting jewelry when throwing. Small stud earrings are unlikely to interfere with wheel work. Rings may be worn if you don’t mind getting them dirty and clay-caked. But those who want to keep their jewelry clean and clay-free may prefer removing rings and bracelets before throwing.

Some potters don’t mind throwing with their jewelry on, while others find it frustrating. There are no strict rules. Decide what works best for your comfort and preferences.

“You’re mostly using your fingertips and maybe a knuckle to throw so, apart from getting your rings muddy with clay, it shouldn’t be a problem.” (source)

Glasses

When throwing clay on a pottery wheel, it’s a good idea to wear glasses or protective eyewear. Clay spinning at high speeds can fling tiny particles and splatter water droplets that may get in your eyes. To prevent this, look for glasses or goggles that have:

• Straps that wrap behind your head to keep them securely on
• Lenses with splash protection, safety shields, or side covers

Regular prescription eyeglasses usually don’t provide adequate protection on their own. But you can purchase removable shields that clip onto your glasses for extra coverage. Or look for sports glasses or flexible goggles designed for activities like swimming that will shield your eyes from all angles.

The pottery studio should have protective eyewear you can borrow. But it’s ideal to invest in your own pair that fits comfortably. This ensures good vision and keeps clay from irritating your eyes as you work on the wheel.

Conclusion

When throwing clay, wearing the proper attire is extremely important for comfort, safety, and cleanliness. Focus on tops and bottoms made from natural fibers that can withstand splatters and stains. Protect your feet with shoes that offer traction and ankle support. Tie back long hair and avoid loose jewelry that could get in the way or contaminate the clay. Glasses help protect your eyes from flying debris. Finally, wear an apron to keep your clothing protected. Following these recommendations will allow you to fully focus on your pottery rather than worrying about your clothes.