The 6 Best Pottery Wheels for Beginners in 2024

The path from a lump of clay to a finely made item in the enthralling world of pottery is not just about imagination and technique; it also depends on having the correct tools. The pottery wheel is more than just a tool for beginners; it’s a gateway to the art form. However, entering this environment can be intimidating. The issue is not just mastering the wheel, but also selecting one that is appropriate for your embryonic talents and objectives.

Choosing the best pottery wheel entails navigating a maze of characteristics and factors, each of which is important in its own right. In this detailed guide, we delve into the complexities of selecting the best pottery wheel for beginners, taking into account important variables such as simplicity of use, cost-effectiveness, size and mobility, and customizable speeds. These elements are critical in providing a smooth, joyful learning curve and avoiding early dissatisfaction, which can diminish a prospective potter’s enthusiasm.

Furthermore, we understand that durability and construction quality are non-negotiable factors. A durable pottery wheel is not just an investment in your craft but also a companion on your creative journey. Along with this, we’ll look at the added value of accessories and extras, which are sometimes ignored yet have the ability to revolutionize the pottery experience for beginners.

We recognize the importance of after-sales assistance in addition to technical specifications. Excellent customer service and warranty conditions can have a huge impact on a beginner’s trust in the product as well as their pottery journey.

However, this guide is more than just technical details and specifications. We’ll look at real-world examples and explore the best options for various use cases. Our guide strives to address a variety of needs and tastes, whether it’s a compact wheel for small studio spaces, a budget-friendly option for the hobbyist, or a feature-rich wheel for those wishing to take their pottery abilities to the next level.

We have also compiled firsthand stories and tips from seasoned potters and educators to bring these insights to life. Their experience, gained over years of spinning the wheel, will provide you with unique viewpoints to help you make an informed decision.

Beginning a ceramic adventure may be both exciting and overwhelming. Our objective is to provide you with the knowledge and confidence to choose a pottery wheel that will not only fit your current needs but will also grow with you as you progress from a beginner to a competent craftsman. Let’s start this trip by delving into the art and science of selecting the best pottery wheel for beginners.

How much should one spend on a beginner’s pottery wheel?

One of the most urgent problems for beginners in the world of pottery is how much to invest in a pottery wheel. The answer, while not simple, is dependent on balancing budget concerns with the quality and features required for a satisfying pottery experience.

To begin with, it’s critical to understand that pottery as a pastime or a potential vocation entails more than just the initial expense of the wheel. Clay, tools, glazes, and maybe kiln access are all extra costs. As a result, your budget for the wheel should include these incidental charges.

Beginner pottery wheels range in price from a few hundred to a couple of thousand dollars. The cost variation reflects changes in construction quality, features, and longevity.

Basic types are available at the lower end of the price spectrum, ranging from $100 to $500. These wheels are great for beginners because they are small, portable, and simple to operate. They may, however, be limited in terms of power, speed control, and longevity.

Mid-range wheels, which cost between $500 and $1,000, strike a mix between quality and price. These versions often have higher build quality, more powerful motors, and additional features such as variable speeds and larger wheel-heads. They are appropriate for beginners who are serious about learning to make pottery and need a wheel that can support their improving talents.

Above $1,000, you’ll come across wheels meant for more advanced users. While these provide higher performance and durability, they may have complexity and nuances that beginners may not require.

Consider purchasing a pottery wheel as a long-term investment. A slightly greater initial cost might sometimes imply better quality and longevity, lowering the need for replacement sooner. However, if you’re interested in pottery as a pastime, an entry-level wheel may suffice, as it enables you to understand the fundamentals without making a large financial investment.

If you’re serious about studying pottery and consider it a long-term hobby, investing in a mid-range wheel is a good idea. These wheels provide an excellent value for money. If you want to professionalize your pottery talents, start with a mid-range model and plan to upgrade as you go.

The trick is to select a wheel that corresponds to your goals, budget, and level of dedication to pottery. Remember that the best investment is one that not only meets your immediate requirements but also helps you improve as a potter. Before making a buying decision, it’s also a good idea to read reviews, get suggestions from experienced potters, and even test out several wheels by visiting your local art studio if that’s an option in your area.

Selection Criteria for Top Pottery Wheel for Beginners 2024—Buying Guide

Pottery Wheels Overall Quality

When looking for a beginner pottery wheel, it is a good idea to evaluate the wheel’s overall construction. A solidly constructed wheel won’t wiggle or vibrate when you’re using it. So, it goes without saying that it is best to think about wheels constructed with high-quality materials if you value durability.

Type of Pottery Wheels

One of the most important decisions a beginner must make when purchasing a pottery wheel is whether to go with an electric or a manual (kick) wheel.

Electric wheels are powered by an electric motor, which provides steady speed and strength, which is especially useful for beginners because it allows for greater control and uniformity in their work. Their ease of use and ability to maintain a continuous pace without physical exertion make them more widespread in modern settings.

Manual wheels, often known as kick wheels, need physical effort to turn the wheel. They provide a more traditional, hands-on approach to pottery by employing a flywheel mechanism. While they require greater physical participation and can be more difficult to master, they also create a stronger sense of connection to the craft. Kick wheels are frequently lauded for their durability and unique experience, but they may be less appealing to beginners due to the physical effort and expertise required to maintain a consistent speed.

Wheel Head Diameter

The size of the circular surface that is used to shape clay is called the wheel head diameter. Beyond being a mere physical measurement, it opens doors to the size of work that can be completed. As it determines the maximum or minimum allowable size of the pots, this dimension is of paramount importance.

The sweet spot for a beginner’s wheel head diameter is typically somewhere between 11 and 14 inches. Small bowls, plates, and vases—the kind of things most beginners make—will fit snugly in there.

Motor Strength and Speed Control

You can control the wheel’s speed and how well it handles larger amounts of clay by adjusting the motor’s strength, which is measured in horsepower (hp). A motor ranging from ⅓ to ½ hp is typically more than enough for beginners.

An equally crucial feature is the speed control, which lets the user alter the wheel speed based on their skill level and the needs of the project. It is best to find wheels that let you quickly and easily adjust the speed for an easier shaping experience.

Noise Level

When using a pottery wheel in a domestic setting, the noise level can be an issue. For the sake of the learner’s comfort and everyone around them, wheels with less noisy motors are ideal.

Wheels Accessories

As an added benefit, some wheels also include pottery toolkits for beginners. In general, though, it is best to choose wheels with integrated workstations, tool storage, or bat pins to secure your tools within reach.

Taking these factors into account will help novice potters choose a wheel that is perfect for their needs right now while also allowing them to progress with their craft.

Top Product Recommendations for the Best Pottery Wheel for Beginners 2024

1. Best Overall Pottery Wheel for Beginners: YESMRO Pottery Wheel
2. Best Electric Pottery Wheel for Beginners: U.S. Art Supply Table Top Pottery Wheel
3. Best Manual Pottery Wheel for Beginners: US Art Supply Sculpting Wheel
4. Best Tabletop Pottery Wheel for Beginners: Speedball Artista Potter’s Wheel
5. Best Next-Level Pottery Wheel for Beginners: Speedball Clay Boss Pottery Wheel
6. Best Budget-Friendly Pottery Wheel for Beginners: VEVOR Pottery Wheel Machine

1. Best Overall Pottery Wheel for Beginners—YESMRO Pottery Wheel

Pottery Wheels Selection Criteria

• Type of Wheel – Electric pottery wheels
• Wheel Head Diameter – 11 inches
• Motor and Speed Control – 350W motor, variable speed control forward and reverse adjustable
• Noise Level – 9/10
• Wheels Accessories – 10/10

About The YESMRO Pottery Wheel

With its 11-inch wheel head and 350W motor, the YESMRO pottery wheel stands out as a great overall option for beginners in pottery. The wheel head’s size is great for a wide range of crafts, since it is suitable for both small and moderately sized creations up to 13.2 pounds, making it ideal for those just starting out. “I was pleased to find a wheel at this price that works well. I have gotten other inexpensive wheels, and they were not up to handling the real force of throwing a pot. I have thrown 5 lbs on it, but it has held up well to that amount. It is on the smaller side, perfect for mugs, cups, and bowls.” explained a happy buyer.

The 350-watt motor is another big plus, as it can provide sufficient power for most starting tasks while maintaining smooth and steady operation. “It is very similar to the professional ones we were using at the art school, it is built very solid and it is really heavy! The size is the same as the ones we were using in the classroom at the art school, and it has the same size and power of wheel, 350 watts.”

The addition of a comprehensive pottery toolset to the package offers great value, particularly for beginners. The kit includes 16 distinct clay tools, providing a wide range of options for shape, carving, and detailing, so you can experiment and learn diverse techniques right away.

A spray bottle is a sensible inclusion; it’s an important tool for keeping the clay at the proper moisture level during the shaping process. As the kit also includes clay, you can begin your pottery journey right away without the need for extra purchases. An apron is also included as a practical touch, keeping garments clean and clear of clay splatters.

One of the model’s standout features is the presence of a foot pedal for hands-free speed control. This is especially useful for beginners since it allows them to control the wheel speed naturally while focused on sculpting the clay with both hands. Controlling the speed using a foot pedal can considerably improve the learning experience, making it more manageable and pleasurable.

Furthermore, the existence of an LCD screen is a modern touch that not only improves the wheel’s aesthetic appeal but also provides useful information to beginners, such as the wheel’s speed, which can help them develop a better knowledge of how different speeds affect the clay. If you have created your piece of art and want to duplicate it, this feature is a lifesaver. Drawing from a long-term user who prefers the use of the LCD screen, “I see how using it and then recording the actual speeds used is helpful if you are throwing a collection of pots and want uniformity.”

Furthermore, the sturdy construction and clever design can sustain regular use and forgive beginners’ repeated mistakes, making this a long-lasting option for those looking for a wheel that will hold as they improve their skills. As a long-term user enthusiastically shared, “This wheel has been awesome and gets several hours of use daily from everyone in the family. Great speed adjustment and reversible rotation, so if you’re left-handed, that’ll work!”

Pros

• Great option as a first pottery wheel motor, as you can find it in almost any pottery class
• Good speed control, with the help of an LCD screen
• Lasts for long pottery sessions
• Affordable price point

Cons

• Lack of a removable splash pan, so cleaning up could be an issue
• Great tabletop wheel, but you might need a couple of concrete slabs to raise it to optimal height

2. Best Electric Pottery Wheel for Beginners—U.S. Art Supply Table Top Pottery Wheel

Pottery Wheels Selection Criteria

• Type of Wheel – Electric pottery wheels
• Wheel Head Diameter – 11 inches
• Motor and Speed Control – ¾ hp motor, variable reversible speed control
• Noise Level – 8/10
• Wheels Accessories – 7/10

About The U.S. Art Supply Table Top Pottery Wheel

Given its combination of power, functionality, and user-friendliness, the U.S. Art Supply electric model emerges as a good pottery wheel for beginners. This heavy-duty portable wheel is powered by a ¾ horsepower motor and can handle up to 25 pounds of clay. This is very useful for beginners who may be experimenting with different sizes and types of projects.

The 11-inch wheel head also provides enough area for a variety of pottery projects while staying manageable in size. A two-part splash pan is also included with the potter’s wheel, which can be great for keeping the working area clean and reducing clay splatter, but in this case, it was a little hard to keep in place; unless you are willing to drill holes as to keep it functional.

The LCD speed monitor, combined with an adjustable variable speed control knob, is a welcoming feature of this pottery wheel, as it enables exact speed adjustments, which are essential for beginners learning to use the wheel. Furthermore, the incorporation of a foot pedal for hands-free operation adds to the ease, allowing beginners to concentrate on molding and sculpting the clay. In case you want to automate it, however, a recent review explained that “if operated with the adjustable dial with the foot pedal not attached, you can set it at a constant speed. The foot pedal is not able to do that. If you take your foot pressure off of the pedal, it will stop the wheel.”

Another noteworthy feature is the wheel’s capacity to change the spin direction. As a result, it is appropriate for both left and right-handed users, offering versatility and comfort in use. A feature like this is especially useful in classroom settings or shared locations where numerous people with varied tastes may use the wheel. In the words of a happy buyer, “The big thing is that I am left-handed. So most pottery wheels you must order for EITHER a right or left-handed person. This spins both ways, and it is powerful.”

The unit’s appropriateness for all skill levels, as seen by its ease of use and robust performance, makes it more than just an entry-level tool; pros value it for its mobility and strength as well. “You usually can’t touch anything like this model for less than 1K. This is $500 and is very powerful. It’s a delight working on this wheel. Very responsive, reacts immediately when you need it.”

Not to mention that the addition of a user guide manual is the frosting on the cake, offering beginners vital assistance to help them get started on their pottery journey the moment they open the box.

Pros:

• Powerful electric wheel with ¾ hp motor power
• This wheel rotates in both directions, making it ideal for right and left-handers
• Detached foot pedal so that you can operate it with a dial for constant speed

Cons:

• Two-part splash pans are not sturdy, especially when using heavier weights
• Not many accessories come with this potter wheel

3. Best Manual Pottery Wheel for Beginners—US Art Supply Sculpting Wheel

Pottery Wheels Selection Criteria

• Type of Wheel – Manual pottery wheels
• Wheel Head Diameter – 12 inches
• Motor and Speed Control – Variable speed control
• Noise Level – 9/10
• Wheels Accessories – No accessories

About The US Art Supply Sculpting Wheel

The US Art Supply sculpting wheel is a great option not just for those beginning out in pottery but also for artists working in other mediums such as painting, sculpting, floral arranging, model-making, and cake designing.

The base and top are both made of high-quality, practically durable heavy-cast metal. This sturdy construction provides longevity and robustness, making it a dependable tool for beginners in the trade. The heavy-duty ball bearing that connects the top and the base of the wheel allows the top to spin smoothly and effortlessly, which is essential for manual wheel operation. According to a five-star review, these kick wheels are “extremely solid! Extremely smooth!”

As explained by a long-term user, this is a “great banding wheel for hand building, waxing, and whatever you need to do with a clay body. Heavy and big enough for your projects, “ as it can carry up to 50 pounds, and fit a wide range of crafts, from small, detailed designs to larger, heavier pieces. The wheel’s stability is further boosted by its non-skid rubber boot at the base. This ensures that the wheel stays firmly in place during use, eliminating the need to drill holes into the workstation and further increasing its ease of use and portability.

The wheel’s top has been meticulously built with concentric rings to aid in the easy centering of workpieces, like most professional pottery wheels. Furthermore, the rim is weighted, providing extra momentum when the wheel is spun, a characteristic that can be very useful for manual wheel operation as it helps maintain a constant rotation with less effort. However, “the clay can get stuck on the bottom, so place a piece of sheetrock to help it along.”

Despite its heavy-duty design, this wheel is light enough to be readily moved around as needed. This feature is very useful for beginners who are setting up their workstations or in educational situations where the wheel must be moved between multiple users or places.

Pros:

• Good pottery wheel for beginners who are looking for tabletop wheels
• Impressive centering capacity
• Right pottery wheel for big projects, as it can handle up to 50 pounds of wet clay

Cons:

• It does not come with accessories and a splash pan

4. Best Tabletop Pottery Wheel for Beginners—Speedball Artista Potter’s Wheel

Pottery Wheels Selection Criteria

• Type of Wheel – Electric pottery wheels
• Wheel Head Diameter – 11 inches
• Motor and Speed Control – ⅓ hp motor, variable speed control
• Noise Level – 9/10
• Wheels Accessories – 8/10

About The Speedball Artista Potter’s Wheel

The Speedball Artista potter’s wheel is an excellent choice for beginners searching for a portable, functional, and affordable pottery wheel. Its tabletop shape not only makes it easy to move but also a wonderful space saver, ideal for individuals with limited working area or who need to store their wheel while not in use.

In a glowing review, one happy buyer wrote, “I’m just starting out and have been using a much more expensive wheel before this, so I was worried. But after using it for a few weeks every day, I’m thrilled! It’s the perfect size for me, and it’s powerful and well-balanced! I absolutely love it! Ease of clean up is great too!”

This machine sports a smooth-running ⅓ HP motor that gives enough power for beginner projects and can hold up to 25 pounds of clay. A Micro V-Belt is used to control the variable speed control, which ranges from 0 to 220 rpm. This function enables beginners to quickly alter speed based on their comfort level and the individual needs of their projects. A two-part removable splash pan with space for two 2-½ pint buckets is another thoughtful addition that improves its usability, especially for beginners.

The Artista’s 11-inch diameter wheel head provides a generous working surface that is suited for a wide range of project sizes, while the centering capacity of 25 pounds is more than adequate for beginner-level work. The inclusion of two bats with the wheel adds value by providing beginners with the necessary tools to begin their pottery journey.

The wheel comes with a two-year warranty, which attests to its high quality and the manufacturer’s dedication to customer satisfaction. “My students love using these wheels. Very reliable and sturdy,” testified an art teacher and studio owner. Optional components such as a starter kit, static legs, and a foot pedal are offered separately and allow for customization based on individual needs and preferences.

Pros:

• The wheel comes with an integrated splash pan
• It is belt-driven for accurate and easy change of speed
• Popular among pottery classes
• Strong motor for a wide variety of tasks

Cons:

• High price point may not be a beginner’s cup of tea

5. Best Next-Level Pottery Wheel for Beginners—Speedball Clay Boss Pottery Wheel

Pottery Wheels Selection Criteria

• Type of Wheel – Electric pottery wheels
• Wheel Head Diameter – 14 inches
• Motor and Speed Control – ½ hp motor, variable speed control
• Noise Level – 10/10
• Wheels Accessories – No accessories

About The Speedball Clay Boss Pottery Wheel

If you’re a beginner looking to step up your pottery game, the Speedball Clay Boss pottery wheel is a great pick. If you have a good grasp of the fundamentals and are ready to move on to more difficult projects or bigger volumes of clay, this wheel is for you.

The Clay Boss can manage centering loads of up to 100 pounds because of its powerful ½ horsepower industrial motor. Beginners who are serious about improving their craft and want a wheel that can match their aspirations and abilities will love this one because of the substantial power boost compared to entry-level wheels. In the words of a happy customer, “Absolutely love it; my teacher uses this brand a lot. I fell in love with it the first week I got it; I threw clay forever.”

A two-piece splash pan and a polyethylene tabletop make up the wheel’s design, making it long-lasting and easy to clean. When first-timers start using their pottery wheel more frequently, this becomes a major factor to think about.

The 14-inch wheel head of the Clay Boss stands out since it’s bigger than the heads of many beginner wheels; making it ideal for beginners looking to broaden their skillset, as this larger wheel head provides more leeway in terms of project size and scope.

Equipped with a foot pedal that offers smooth and varied speed control (ranging from 0-240 rpm), users can precisely modify the wheel’s speed to suit the unique needs of each project. In order to master increasingly complex pottery techniques, this degree of control is necessary.

In addition, the wheel’s advanced load-sensing mechanism keeps the wheel head speed constant even when loads change. Important for more complex projects, this means the wheel can handle different amounts of clay without sacrificing performance. “It has worked very well…for both throwing and trimming. It was easy to put together and runs quietly and smoothly,” verified a long-term user.

Finally, we should mention here that this machine is covered by a 10-year warranty, with a twist. “While it does have a 10-year warranty, the one “but” is that if it needs service, you have to ship it back to the factory, which can be very expensive.”

Pros:

• Powerful motor can handle large amounts of clay
• Comes with foot pedals in the package, no need for extra accessories
• Great wheel for pottery hobby, but also for longer use – even after you have mastered the basics
• Very quiet direct drive

Cons:

• The 10-year warranty means that you will need to ship the whole machine back to the factory at your expense.
• Quite high price point

6. Best Budget-Friendly Pottery Wheel for Beginners— VEVOR Pottery Wheel Machine

Pottery Wheels Selection Criteria

• Type of Wheel – Electric pottery wheels
• Wheel Head Diameter – 11 inches
• Motor and Speed Control – 350W motor, variable speed control
• Noise Level – 9/10
• Wheels Accessories – 10/10

About The VEVOR Pottery Wheel Machine

For those just starting out with pottery, the VEVOR pottery wheel is a great, affordable option. For beginners seeking a dependable and inexpensive solution, its blend of key features, user-friendliness, and price makes it a great fit. “This machine is so smooth and easy to use. I have never done pottery before, and this makes it so easy!”

With an aluminum alloy turntable measuring 11 inches, this wheel is great as it works well for a variety of projects. The turntable’s construction makes it lightweight, resistant to corrosion, and long-lasting, all of which add to the wheel’s convenience and lifespan. “LOVE this little machine! I have used it every day for the last two weeks, and it is working great; fingers crossed, it lasts a long time. I love it! It’s pretty small, so I would recommend it for someone shorter than six feet,” added an enthusiastic customer.

Particularly for beginners who may find washing the wheel a chore, the wheel’s easy cleanup basin stands out. Eliminating the usual mess that comes with throwing is made much easier with the removable ABS water basin, which is specifically engineered to contain both clay and water.

You can easily change the speed and go forward or backward using the supplied foot pedal. This variable speed control (up to 300 rpm) is great for new users because it allows them greater leeway to experiment and discover the optimal pace for their tasks.

When making the VEVOR pottery wheel, safety was another priority. To make sure it works safely, it comes with an earth leak protection device and a single-phase, three-wire connector. Users in shared areas or home contexts will also appreciate the efficient 350w brushless motor’s reliable and quiet functioning.

Finally, despite its low price point, this electric pottery wheel comes with a carving kit of 16 pieces. With this supplementary shaping kit, beginners can enhance their pottery experience by trimming and refining their creations. An extra water-resistant apron is a nice touch that lets people get their hands dirty without preventing them from enjoying themselves. “Bought this for myself ’cause I didn’t wanna spend a thousand on a pottery wheel. I would recommend all beginners to start with this to see if they really want to get into pottery,” advised a satisfied user.

Pros:

• High-quality wheel, for beginners, at a low price point
• Great speed control, very easy to control, especially for a first-wheel
• Brushless motor makes this wheel very quiet

Cons:

• Customer support is not easy to reach

Conclusion

As a beginner, you may feel both excited and terrified to begin your pottery journey. To make your ceramics journey more fun and rewarding, the correct pottery wheel is an essential instrument. With the specific needs of beginners in mind, we have compiled this buying guide with a selection of pottery wheels that we believe will make learning the craft a breeze.

If you’re interested in pottery and are looking for a wheel, our guide has you covered, with options ranging from affordable wheels to those made for advanced potters.

With its 11-inch wheel head and 350-watt motor, the YESMRO pottery wheel offers the best overall pottery experience. It’s perfect for a variety of situations, including home DIY projects and pottery courses.

Yet, those who would rather have an exclusive electric model can find one with a sturdy motor and an easy-to-read LCD speed display on the U.S. Art Supply tabletop pottery wheel. The sturdy build and classic operation of the US Art Supply sculpting wheel, on the other hand, make it an attractive option for beginners looking for a manual wheel.

In terms of space-saving, portable, and reasonably priced tabletop options, the Speedball Artista potter’s wheel is hard to beat. Yet, with its strong motor and higher capacity, the Speedball Clay Boss pottery wheel is ideal for more difficult tasks as beginners progress.

Finally, the VEVOR pottery wheel is a great pick for individuals watching their budget as it strikes a good mix of price and usefulness.