5.1: Introduction to the Wheel
- Page ID
- 299293
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\(\newcommand{\avec}{\mathbf a}\) \(\newcommand{\bvec}{\mathbf b}\) \(\newcommand{\cvec}{\mathbf c}\) \(\newcommand{\dvec}{\mathbf d}\) \(\newcommand{\dtil}{\widetilde{\mathbf d}}\) \(\newcommand{\evec}{\mathbf e}\) \(\newcommand{\fvec}{\mathbf f}\) \(\newcommand{\nvec}{\mathbf n}\) \(\newcommand{\pvec}{\mathbf p}\) \(\newcommand{\qvec}{\mathbf q}\) \(\newcommand{\svec}{\mathbf s}\) \(\newcommand{\tvec}{\mathbf t}\) \(\newcommand{\uvec}{\mathbf u}\) \(\newcommand{\vvec}{\mathbf v}\) \(\newcommand{\wvec}{\mathbf w}\) \(\newcommand{\xvec}{\mathbf x}\) \(\newcommand{\yvec}{\mathbf y}\) \(\newcommand{\zvec}{\mathbf z}\) \(\newcommand{\rvec}{\mathbf r}\) \(\newcommand{\mvec}{\mathbf m}\) \(\newcommand{\zerovec}{\mathbf 0}\) \(\newcommand{\onevec}{\mathbf 1}\) \(\newcommand{\real}{\mathbb R}\) \(\newcommand{\twovec}[2]{\left[\begin{array}{r}#1 \\ #2 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\ctwovec}[2]{\left[\begin{array}{c}#1 \\ #2 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\threevec}[3]{\left[\begin{array}{r}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\cthreevec}[3]{\left[\begin{array}{c}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\fourvec}[4]{\left[\begin{array}{r}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \\ #4 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\cfourvec}[4]{\left[\begin{array}{c}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \\ #4 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\fivevec}[5]{\left[\begin{array}{r}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \\ #4 \\ #5 \\ \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\cfivevec}[5]{\left[\begin{array}{c}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \\ #4 \\ #5 \\ \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\mattwo}[4]{\left[\begin{array}{rr}#1 \amp #2 \\ #3 \amp #4 \\ \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\laspan}[1]{\text{Span}\{#1\}}\) \(\newcommand{\bcal}{\cal B}\) \(\newcommand{\ccal}{\cal C}\) \(\newcommand{\scal}{\cal S}\) \(\newcommand{\wcal}{\cal W}\) \(\newcommand{\ecal}{\cal E}\) \(\newcommand{\coords}[2]{\left\{#1\right\}_{#2}}\) \(\newcommand{\gray}[1]{\color{gray}{#1}}\) \(\newcommand{\lgray}[1]{\color{lightgray}{#1}}\) \(\newcommand{\rank}{\operatorname{rank}}\) \(\newcommand{\row}{\text{Row}}\) \(\newcommand{\col}{\text{Col}}\) \(\renewcommand{\row}{\text{Row}}\) \(\newcommand{\nul}{\text{Nul}}\) \(\newcommand{\var}{\text{Var}}\) \(\newcommand{\corr}{\text{corr}}\) \(\newcommand{\len}[1]{\left|#1\right|}\) \(\newcommand{\bbar}{\overline{\bvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\bhat}{\widehat{\bvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\bperp}{\bvec^\perp}\) \(\newcommand{\xhat}{\widehat{\xvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\vhat}{\widehat{\vvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\uhat}{\widehat{\uvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\what}{\widehat{\wvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\Sighat}{\widehat{\Sigma}}\) \(\newcommand{\lt}{<}\) \(\newcommand{\gt}{>}\) \(\newcommand{\amp}{&}\) \(\definecolor{fillinmathshade}{gray}{0.9}\)An overview of the potter's wheel, including its history, different types, and setting up the wheel-throwing environment. This section discusses selecting appropriate clay bodies for wheel throwing and introduces basic concepts and terminology. Ergonomics and correct body positioning are emphasized to prevent strain and improve efficiency.
History and Types of Potter’s Wheels
Historical Origins: The potter’s wheel dates back to approximately 3,000 BCE in Mesopotamia, marking a pivotal moment in ceramic history. Early wheels were manually operated by turning a horizontal disk, drastically increasing efficiency compared to hand-building. Over time, innovations like the kick wheel and electric wheel revolutionized pottery by offering greater speed and precision. Today’s potters can choose from a variety of wheels tailored to their needs, from traditional kick wheels to high-tech, motorized options.
Types of Wheels
- Kick Wheel: Powered by the potter’s foot, this wheel provides control over speed but requires physical effort.
- Electric Wheel: Operated by a motor, it allows for consistent speeds and is beginner-friendly.
- Hybrid Wheels: Combine kick and electric mechanisms, offering versatility for different throwing styles.
- Cultural Variations: Different regions have adapted wheels to suit local practices. For example, Japanese potters often use slower, traditional wheels for meticulous craftsmanship.
- Modern Wheels: Many electric wheels feature advanced controls, like adjustable speeds and reverse spinning, ideal for fine-tuning complex techniques.
Setting Up Your Wheel-Throwing Environment
- Space Considerations: A clean, well-organized space is critical for effective throwing. Ensure there’s enough room to move comfortably around the wheel and access tools and materials. Place your wheel near a water source for easy cleanup.
- Flooring: Use a non-slip mat or install rubber flooring to prevent accidents caused by water or clay spills.
- Lighting: Proper lighting helps you see the details of your work clearly. Position a lamp above the wheel or use natural light to illuminate the workspace.
- Tool Accessibility: Arrange essential tools (sponges, ribs, trimming tools) within arm’s reach of the wheel. Use a small shelf or tray for efficient organization.
Selecting Appropriate Clay Bodies for Wheel Throwing
- Clay Body Types: Not all clays are suitable for wheel throwing. Select clay with high plasticity, which makes it easier to shape and manipulate.
- Stoneware: A versatile, strong clay ideal for beginners and functional pottery.
- Porcelain: Smooth and delicate, but challenging due to its low plasticity.
- Earthenware: Easy to work with but less durable, often used for decorative pieces.
- Moisture Content: Properly hydrated clay is essential for smooth throwing. If clay is too dry, it can crack; if too wet, it will slump.
- Testing Clay: Wedge and throw a small amount of clay to evaluate its workability before committing to a large project.
- Recycling: Keep scraps of clay to recycle later, ensuring minimal waste in the studio.