Pottery Wheel Speed Guide
The optimal wheel speed depends on three main factors: the diameter of the piece, the forming stage, and your skill level. Larger pieces need slower speeds to prevent wobbling and distortion, while smaller pieces can handle faster rotation.
General Speed Principles
- Centering: Fastest speed - you need momentum to move the clay
- Opening: Moderate-fast - maintain control while pressing down
- Pulling walls: Moderate - balance between lift and control
- Shaping: Slow-moderate - fine control for profiles
- Trimming: Moderate - fast enough for clean cuts, slow enough for control