What Is A Cheap Alternative To A Pottery Wheel?

A pottery wheel is a machine used in the shaping process of ceramic material. It allows potters to quickly produce uniform pieces with an even wall thickness. The wheel head spins as the potter uses their hands and tools to center and shape clay. Quality wheels provide smooth, consistent, variable speed rotation. This enables precise control during throwing and forming of clay bodies.

While pottery wheels are essential equipment, they can be quite expensive. Quality manufacturers like Brent, Shimpo, and Soldner sell wheels ranging from $400 up to several thousand dollars. Many schools and professional studios invest in this type of commercial-grade equipment.

For beginner potters, students, or hobbyists on a budget, there are some cheaper alternatives to purchasing a professional pottery wheel. The following sections will explore manual, DIY, and used options that provide adequate functionality at a lower price point.

Manual Pottery Wheels

Manual kick wheels are a cheaper alternative to electric pottery wheels. They consist of a rotating wheel head that spins when the potter repeatedly presses on a foot pedal. This kinetic energy from the potter’s leg provides the power to turn the wheel. Manual kick wheels require more physical exertion than electric wheels, but allow the potter to control the speed entirely through the pressure applied on the kick wheel pedal.

Some benefits of manual kick wheels are that they are very affordable, with basic models starting around $100. They are also portable and don’t require any electricity. However, a downside is that it takes practice and leg strength to keep manual wheels spinning smoothly. The wheel speed also varies based on how fast the potter can pump the foot pedal.

Popular manual pottery wheel models include the Brent Model C Kick Wheel, which costs around $235, and the Shimpo Aspire, which costs around $300. Both provide smooth spinning and adjustable seat height for user comfort. Overall, manual kick wheels are a budget-friendly way to start wheel throwing without investing in an expensive electric wheel. They provide sufficient functionality for beginners learning the basics of working with clay on a wheel.

Spindle Pottery Wheels

Spindle pottery wheels are a simple, low-cost alternative to expensive electric pottery wheels. They consist of a spinning rod or “spindle” that sits vertically in a frame or stand. The potter uses their feet to pump a pedal that turns the spindle. This rotates the clay attached to the top of the spindle, allowing the potter to shape it with their hands.

Pros:

• Very affordable, with DIY versions possible under $50
• Don’t require electricity
• Provide good speed control with pedal
• Portable and space-saving

Cons:

• Require more physical effort from the potter
• Only rotate in one direction
• Limited stability and centering ability
• Not suitable for large or very heavy pieces

To make a DIY spindle wheel, you will need:

• Metal rod or threaded bolt, at least 24″ long
• Ball bearings
• Wood board for the base
• Bicycle pedal and crankset
• Frame/stand materials like wood or metal
• Hardware to attach spindle and pedal

With basic tools and materials from a hardware store, you can build a functional spindle wheel for $30-50. The spindle mounts vertically through holes in the wood base. Ball bearings allow it to spin smoothly when pedaled. Attach a clay mounting disk to the top spindle to get started shaping pots!

Bowl Turning Methods

There are several techniques to create ceramic bowls without a pottery wheel. These methods allow you to handbuild bowls and do not require any expensive equipment.

Coil Building

Coil building involves rolling out “snakes” of clay into long coils, then stacking the coils on top of each other to build up the bowl shape. Start with a clay base and build up the coils around the edges, blending and smoothing between layers. This method works well for deep, rounded bowls.

Paddle and Anvil

The paddle and anvil technique uses a wooden paddle or club to shape the clay on a flat surface or “anvil.” Form a lump of clay into a rough bowl shape. Place it on the anvil and use the paddle to tap and shape the clay into a smooth hollow bowl form. Rotate and tilt the clay as you paddle to get an even thickness.

Slab Building

Slab building uses flat sheets or “slabs” of rolled clay to construct a bowl. Roll out several clay slabs of uniform thickness. Cut and stack the slabs in a circle, overlapping the edges slightly. Blend the seams together, then refine the shape. Add a bottom slab for support. Slab building works well for shallow, geometric bowls.

Lazy Susans

A lazy susan is a rotating tray that can be used as a makeshift pottery wheel. Here’s how:

Place a lazy susan on a sturdy, stable surface. Make sure it spins smoothly. Load it with clay and begin shaping your piece while slowly spinning the lazy susan with one hand. Use your other hand to mold the clay. Turn the lazy susan by hand to steadily rotate the clay as you work.

For stability, you may want to secure the lazy susan to the table using museum wax or non-slip mats. This lets you spin and shape the clay with both hands. Apply gentle pressure while shaping to keep good contact between the clay and the lazy susan surface.

The main benefits of using a lazy susan are the cost (they can be purchased for $10-20) and availability. Most households already own one. The main limitations are less control and stability than a real pottery wheel. The hand-spinning can also get tiring for large projects. But for small bowls, cups, and plates, a lazy susan provides a very affordable introduction to wheel throwing.

Small Electric Wheels

Small, tabletop electric pottery wheels are more affordable options compared to full-size wheels. They range from about $100 to $300, whereas standard wheels are often $500 or more. These compact wheels take up less space and can easily fit on a tabletop or counter. They have smaller spinning plates, usually 8-12 inches across. This reduces their weight and power requirements compared to larger models.

While small electric wheels don’t have all the features or power of full-size versions, they can be great starter options for beginners. They provide powered spinning to center and shape clay. Speed is adjustable on most models. These wheels allow practicing wheel techniques without a large investment. Consider starting with a tabletop version to learn, then upgrading later as skills improve.

Popular small electric wheels are the Speedball Artista, Amaco Brent, and Shimpo Aspire. The Speedball is one of the most affordable at around $100. It offers variable speed control and a 12-inch spinning plate. The Amaco Brent provides more power for about $200. Shimpo is a top brand for pottery wheels, and their Aspire model runs around $300. It has a heavy-duty motor and smooth variable speed control. Small Shimpo, Brent or Speedball wheels can help beginners learn wheel skills on a budget.

Motorized DIY Wheels

One of the most creative ways to make an inexpensive pottery wheel is to build one yourself using household items. With a little bit of mechanical know-how, you can create a motorized wheel for under $50.

The main components needed are a motor, a power source, a platform, and something to use as the wheel itself. Here are some ideas for materials to use:

• Motor – small electric motor, drill motor, treadmill motor
• Power source – battery pack, power supply, variable speed control
• Platform – plywood, thick plastic sheet, metal baking sheet
• Wheel – lazy susan, small turntable, plastic bucket lid

For a basic design, mount the motor underneath the platform secured with brackets. Attach the wheel component centered on top. Connect the motor to the power source through an on/off switch. Use washers and attachments to raise or lower the wheel height as needed.

More advanced builds can include a variable speed foot pedal for controlling the rotation. Or mount the motor sideways and transfer power via a belt or gears. Take safety precautions like guarding moving parts and wearing protective eyewear.

If buying all new materials, this project would cost $30-50. But with scrapped and repurposed parts, you can likely build a DIY wheel for under $20. It takes some mechanical aptitude but results in an inexpensive, customizable pottery wheel.

Used Wheels

Used wheels can be a great budget-friendly option for beginner potters or those looking to get their feet wet in wheel throwing without a large upfront investment. Check local secondhand stores, garage sales, craigslist, Facebook Marketplace or other online classifieds for used wheels being sold by potters, art schools, or studios that are upgrading equipment.

When inspecting a used wheel, test that it spins smoothly without excessive wobbling. Examine the wheelhead for scratches or grooves that could affect throwing. Plug it in to ensure the motor and speed control are functioning properly. Wiggle the pedal to check for looseness. Look for rust or other signs of neglect. Consider if replacement parts may be needed and factor that into the purchase price.

While used wheels come with some risk and often lack warranties, they can offer big savings over new models. With some diligent searching and inspection, used wheels can be a practical way for beginners to start wheel throwing on a budget.

Wheel Rentals

Renting time on a pottery wheel is a great option for beginners who want to try working on a real wheel before investing in their own equipment. Many local pottery studios and community art centers offer wheel rental options. Prices and policies vary, but expect to pay an hourly rate, often between $5-$15 per hour. Some places require you to book time slots in advance, while others allow you to drop in and pay for time as you go.

When renting a studio wheel, all the required tools and mess containment are provided. Studios have trained assistants available to help you learn the basics. It’s a safe, nurturing environment ideal for trying the pottery wheel experience before purchasing your own equipment. Plus, renting avoids the hassle of setting up and cleaning up afterwards.

Here are some highly rated studios known for wheel rentals in major cities across the US:

• Clay Art Center (NYC)
• Claytime Ceramic Studio (Chicago)
• Clayground Ceramic Supply and Studio (Los Angeles)
• Zen Clay Studio (Philadelphia)
• Mudworks Studio (Atlanta)
• Clay Café (Houston)

Renting studio time is an affordable way to try pottery wheel techniques. Experienced potters often rent wheels to test equipment or work without distractions. Consider rental options at local clay centers and pottery studios in your area.

Conclusion

To recap, there are a few viable cheaper alternatives to buying a traditional pottery wheel for home use:

Manual Pottery Wheels – These involve turning the wheel manually using a kick wheel or crank handle. They provide a good workout and full control, but can be tiring on longer projects. They are very affordable, with basic models starting under $100.

Spindle Wheels – Spindle wheels remove the need to turn the wheel manually, allowing continuous motion powered by a rotating rod. They are more expensive than kick wheels but provide effortless spinning. Models start around $200.

Bowl Turning Methods – Turning bowls by hand without a wheel takes practice but can produce unique shapes. Methods like using lazy susans allow for some wheel-like motion. Very cheap but requires skill.

Small Electric Wheels – Small tabletop electric wheels offer powered spinning in a compact form. They are good for smaller projects but can lack stability and strength. Prices start around $150.

Motorized DIY Wheels – Adding a motor to a manual wheel or lazy susan is a creative way to get powered spinning on the cheap. Requires technical skill for the setup.

Used/Rented Wheels – Looking for used pottery wheels or renting time on wheels can provide access for lower costs. Availability may be limited.

For hobbyists on a budget looking to try basic wheel throwing at home without a large investment, a manual kick wheel or small electric wheel can be a good option. Spindle wheels provide effortless spinning for a few hundred dollars more. Renting wheels periodically can also be a nice alternative for beginners. While not as ideal as a full-size pottery wheel, these cheaper alternatives allow aspiring ceramic artists to start gaining wheel experience on a budget.