Have you ever held a handmade mug and thought, "I want to make something like this!"? If so, you're not alone. Pottery is a beautiful, rewarding hobby that connects creativity with craftsmanship — and the good news is, getting started is easier than you might think.
At Sajo Ceramics, we're passionate about handmade artistry. Whether you dream of throwing pots on a wheel or hand-building little dishes at your kitchen table, here's your guide to beginning your ceramics journey!
What You Need to Get Started
1. Basic Tools
- Clay (stoneware is a great beginner choice)
- Wooden modeling tools
- Wire clay cutter
- Sponge and water bucket
- Rolling pin (for hand-building)
2. A Workspace Find a small, dedicated space where it's okay to get a little messy. Even a corner of your kitchen or garage will do!
3. Access to a Kiln Ceramic pieces must be fired in a kiln to become durable. You can:
- Find a local pottery studio that rents kiln space
- Join a ceramics class
- Invest in a small at-home kiln (eventually)
4. A Bit of Patience and Curiosity Like any craft, pottery takes time to master — but every lopsided cup or cracked plate teaches you something valuable.
Easy First Projects
Here are a few beginner-friendly projects you can try:
- Pinch Pots: Simple bowls made by pinching a ball of clay.
- Coil Pots: Rolling clay into "snakes" and stacking them into shapes.
- Slab Plates: Rolling clay flat and cutting shapes for plates or trays.
No pottery wheel? No problem! Many stunning pieces can be hand-built.
Why Handmade Matters
Working with clay connects you to something ancient and meaningful. Every thumbprint, every swirl of glaze, carries a piece of your story.
That's why at Sajo Ceramics, we celebrate handmade artistry — whether you're just starting or you're a seasoned pro.
When You're Ready for More
As you grow more confident, you might want to:
- Experiment with different clays and glazes
- Try throwing on a pottery wheel
- Explore advanced techniques like slip-casting or sgraffito
- Check out our pottery classes.
And of course, treat yourself to beautiful handmade inspiration from artists who have walked the same creative path!
Feeling inspired? Check out our selection of handmade ceramics here — and imagine what you might create next!