Töpferscheibe

Töpferscheibe, or potter’s wheel, is a machine used in pottery to form vessels on a rotating surface. Traditional wheels are kick wheels powered by the potter’s foot, while modern studios mostly employ electric wheels driven by a motor. A wheel typically comprises a wheel head mounted on a sturdy frame, a drive mechanism (pedal or motor), and a splash pan to catch water and clay.

The potter centers a lump of clay on the wheel. As the wheel turns, the potter centers the clay, opens it to create a hollow form, and shapes the walls by pulling with the fingers and using tools to control thickness and form. Finishing touches are made with ribs, needles, and trimming tools as the piece reaches leather-hard or bone-dry stages. The process requires coordination of speed, moisture, and finger pressure to maintain balance and symmetry.

The potter’s wheel has ancient origins, with early variants found in various cultures, including Mesopotamia. Its design was refined in Europe during the medieval period and later mechanized in the modern era. Electric wheels became standard in the 20th century, offering increased speed, precision, and consistency for both artistic pottery and mass production.

Common clay bodies include stoneware, porcelain, and earthenware. Wheels require maintenance such as belt replacement, bearing lubrication, and regular cleaning of the splash pan. Safety practices include keeping clothing and hair away from the rotating wheel, maintaining a clean workspace to prevent slipping, and turning off and unplugging the wheel during setup or repair.