F1#7 Pottery Rib, 11 cm. This is a very important basic tool for potters and ceramic work, both for throwing on the wheel and hand-building.
Primary Uses
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Shaping and Smoothing Vessel Surfaces: Used against the surface of a clay piece while it's spinning on the wheel to remove excess water, clear finger marks, and help shape the round or curved forms of vases, bowls, or cups into smooth, consistent shapes.
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Compressing Clay from the Inside: The curved edge of the wooden rib is used to press and push the clay wall from inside the vessel. This expels air bubbles, compacts the clay to an even density, and helps to expand the bulging shape of the piece without causing the clay to collapse or lose its form.
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Trimming Excess Material: The sharp, pointed, or straight edge is used to scrape away slurry or excess clay at the base of the piece before cutting it off the wheel.
Highlights
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Smooth Natural Wood Material: The rib is made from fine-grained hardwood. It is strong and does not warp under pressure, allowing for more stable and gentle control of the hand pressure when shaping clay compared to rubber or metal ribs.
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Ergonomic Design with a Central Hole: Designed with multiple curved angles on a single piece to accommodate various curves of pottery. The central circular hole allows fingers to grip securely, preventing slipping even when hands are wet with clay.