Want to purchase your own potters wheel but feeling overwhelmed by all the choices? Never fear, I have written this buyers guide to help you find the best wheel for your needs. After reading this post you’ll have all the info you need to make an informed and educated decision about which wheel is right for you.
There are many considerations that go into buying a potters wheel, here are mine.
1. Budget. Decide how much you can afford then only look at wheel in that price range. This can narrow the field considerably. For instance when I was starting out I had very little to spend on a wheel so I found one second hand for $300 and used it happily for many years. If your resources are limited then I highly encourage you to checkout the listings on craigslist or check with your local ceramic supplier, they often know who is selling pottery equipment in your area.
2. Kick wheel vs Electric Wheel. I first learned on a Lockerbie Kick wheel but when it came time to buy my first new wheel I chose an Bailey Pro 50R electric wheel. Kick wheels are great but they have a larger learning curve and all the kicking really wears on the body. If this is your first wheel I suggest going with an electric wheel and your knees will thank you for it!
3. Hobby vs Intermediate/Pro Wheel. Basically the difference besides cost is how much clay the wheel can center. Hobby wheels usually are 1/3hp – 1/2hp and center up to 50 lbs of clay. Intermediate/Pro Wheels are around 1hp and center 100lbs of clay or more.
4. Splash Pan or Enclosed Workspace. This was a huge part of my pottery wheel decision. I hate taking apart and cleaning two piece splash pans so I chose the Bailey Pro XL wheel. It has an enclosed splash pan and a center drain hole for the excess throwing water and trimming scraps can be swept out the removable side panel into a bucket. You can also get an optional counter that mounts on the front (as shown in the image) and leg extensions if you like throwing from a tall stool or standing up. Everything about this wheel makes my life so much easier.
5.Portability. Not an issue for most of us but if you plan on taking your wheel on the road you make want to look at smaller light weight models that travel well. I find that these types of wheel are not as sturdy and are not able to center much clay but if you must have a wheel for travel then check these out.
6. Noise. This can be the deal breaker for some when purchasing a wheel. Some wheel are just downright noisy which can be a distraction when you are trying to throw. If this sounds like you then the Shimpo VL Whisper is the answer to your prayers. It runs almost silent and its 1/2 hp motor can center up to 100lbs of clay.
7. Motor. Basically there are two kinds: Belt Drive or Direct Current Direct Drive motor. Basically the wheel is driven by either a belt or a belt-less electronically controlled motor.. This is all way too technical for me and from my point of view both are good.The main difference I can see is that the Direct Drive motors tend to be quieter.
8.Bat Pins. Bat pins are a must on your wheel head, I don’t even know why they would make a wheel without them. Bat pins hold your bats on the wheel and you want this because it is nearly impossible to remove plates and other large items from the wheel without distorting them. If you throw them on a bat then you just remove the bat with the pottery still on it, set it on a shelf, attach a new bat and throw you next piece! Voila!
9. Reversing Switch. If you are a lefty then you need this or you’ll have to conform and throw as if are right-handed. I say no! Don’t conform, throw with the dominant hand you were born to use and buy a wheel with a reversing switch. Crisis averted. You’re welcome.
10.Warranty. Last but certainly not least is the warranty. Buy a wheel that has at least a 5 year warranty. Most issues with a pottery wheel will happen in the first year or two. A wheel is a big investment so make sure your equipment and wallet are covered!
Here are some other great wheels:
Best Wheels on a budget: SpeedBall ClayBoss or the Shimpo VL Lite
Best Enclosed Pan Wheels: Thomas Stuart Pro Wheel or the Bailey Pro 50 or Bailey Pro XL
Best Two-Piece Splash Pan Wheels: Brent C, Shimpo VL Whisper or the Pacifica GT 400
These are just a few of the many wheels available. I suggest that in addition to reading this and doing your own researching online that you go to a local clay center or ceramic supplier and try out what they have before you buy. If you are still having difficulty deciding after that take heart in this: most people end up loving the wheel they have. So go with the one your heart tells you is right for you and I know you won’t have any regrets!