CALL US TODAY
How much does a pottery wheel cost?
Pottery is a timeless art form that has been practiced for centuries. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced potter, having the right tools is essential for creating beautiful pieces. One of the most important tools for pottery is a pottery wheel. But how much does a pottery wheel cost? In this article, we will explore the different factors that affect the cost of a pottery wheel and provide you with an estimate of how much you can expect to spend.
Types of Pottery Wheels
The first factor that affects the cost of a pottery wheel is the type of wheel. There are two main types of pottery wheels: electric and manual kick wheels.
Kick wheels are the most expensive option, with prices starting at £1500 and going up to £4000. These wheels are powered by the potter's foot and require a lot of skill to use.
Electric wheels, on the other hand, can be a little more affordable, with prices ranging from £700 to £2000. These wheels are powered by electricity and have a foot pedal for controlling the speed.
Electric vs Manual Kick Wheels
| Electric Pottery Wheel | Kickwheel | |
| Portability | Lighter and smaller in size, and therefore easy to move and travel with | Very heavy and therefore extremely difficult to move and travel with |
| Power Source | Rely on electricity to function | Typically rely on no electricity; powered by the artist’s foot |
| Noise Control | Especially cheaper models can be rather loud during throwing, emitting hums, squeals, grinding, or rumbling | Typically very quiet |
| Physical Demand | Since the motor creates the wheel’s momentum, very little physical effort is required to work it | Prolonged use may result in knee problems and aggravate arthritis because of the physical input required |
| Speed | Throwing is faster, and therefore better for production work, but inexperienced potters tend to increase rotational speed too quickly, adversely affecting their throw | Slower throwing process, but many come with motors to assist with increasing speed |
| Throwing Process | Centering clay is typically easier with a motor, and most models have pedals that allow for clockwise and counterclockwise rotation of the wheelhead for both right-handed and left-handed throwing | Easily allows for both clockwise and counterclockwise rotation of the wheelhead for both right-handed and left-handed throwing; can give the artist a better feel and control for the throwing process |
Brand and Quality
Another factor that affects the cost of a pottery wheel is the brand and quality. Just like with any other product, well-known brands tend to be more expensive. However, they also offer better quality and durability. Some popular brands for pottery wheels include Shimpo, Brent, and Skutt. These brands offer a range of options for different budgets, with prices starting at £750 and going up to £4000. It is important to do your research and read reviews to determine which brand and model will best suit your needs and budget.
Size and Features
The size and features of a pottery wheel also play a role in its cost. Larger wheels with more features will generally be more expensive. For example, a wheel with a larger wheel head and a more powerful motor will cost more than a smaller, basic wheel. Additionally, some wheels come with features such as adjustable height, removable splash pans, and built-in shelves, which can also increase the cost. The average cost for a pottery wheel with these features is around £1000 to £2000.
