5 Ceramic Studio Must-Haves

Do you want to pursue a career as a ceramic artist, or perhaps you have a passion for this hobby and would like to expand it? Either way, if you're going to be a success with ceramics, you need a designated space to create your projects. There are a few things to keep in mind when you set up your studio and several things that you need so that you can work effectively.

Power 

The first thing that you would need to address is a power source to run your equipment. Be familiar with the power and voltage that your chosen kiln needs to operate so that you don't overload a regular power source. You should also keep in mind that your project could be damaged if the kiln cycle is interrupted before it has completed, due to a power outage or interruption in service. An automatic transfer switch that can connect you to a backup power source with no gap in power flow can be a lifesaver in these situations.

Lighting and Plumbing

As with any creative venture, good quality lighting is an absolute necessity. Natural lighting is best, find a space with plenty of windows if at all possible. If this is not an option, have strong overhead lighting and a few lamps available that you can move around as needed.

Plumbing is another thing that will need to be addressed. Working with clay can be messy and you will frequently need to clean up your work surfaces. However, you don't want the clay to clog your drains so you need to have a system in place to dispose of excess materials and to clean up without putting the residue down your drain.

Ventilation

A ceramic artist works with a variety of glazes that can put off some unpleasant or even toxic fumes when fired using your kiln. Since the kiln is a huge part of a ceramic studio, you will need to properly ventilate the space that it is in. Open a door or window if possible and have a fan and exhaust system to draw out the fumes so you aren't breathing them in.

Equipment

You will obviously need to have all of the proper tools and equipment at your disposal if you want to be a ceramics artist. The types of projects that you specialize in will determine exactly what materials that you need. You will obviously need some work space and a storage area for your various tools and materials.

A comfortable chair is a good idea, or a cushioned mat if you prefer to work standing up so you don't cause yourself any pain.

Select your types of clays and glazes carefully. You will most likely be frequently mixing different glazes together, so you need a place to store any excess so it is not wasted.

The biggest pieces of equipment that you need is a pottery wheel for any vases and pots that you may be making, and a kiln. Do your research on these two pieces and invest in a high quality product that will last a long time and produce good results.

Drive

Finally, you will need the drive and determination to approach your work with joy and continue on even in the face of difficulty. Projects will break on occasion, or perhaps an idea you have will not work the way you want it to. If you want to be successful, you need to have the will and desire to make your venture work even in the face of setbacks.

A ceramic studio can be an excellent place to pursue a hobby or form a new business venture that can be profitable for you. This creative endeavor is a great way for you to relax and expand upon your natural talents. To be as successful as possible, put some thought into forming your studio so that you have everything that you need to meet your goals.