Recommended Pottery Wheel Bats
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One of the most efficient ways to throw on the wheel is to use throwing bats. There are several reasons why I love bats. After trying out many, I want to share my favorites with you.
- It’s much easier to make your Pottery on a Bat, place it aside, grab another bat, and create another masterpiece.
What I love most is that you can go back to your piece, make alterations, and add the final touches while it is still securely stuck to the bat, which is a big plus. - Bats can be much easier to throw with than using nothing. It’s harder to get your pottery off the wheel right away without leaving any marks. You have to wait for it to dry a bit before attempting to get it off the wheel.
- Bats come in many different sizes, thicknesses, and materials. Sizes range from 7.5 inches (19cm) to 20 inches (50.8cm). The thickness is usually 1/4 inch (0.635 cm) and can go up to 1 inch (2.54cm). You can choose from many different materials: wooden, plastic, masonite, medex, even plaster or bisque bats.
My All-Around Pottery Wheel Bat Pick Is The Plasti-Bat
Durability
Amaco Plasti-Bats are made of high-impact plastic, which makes them hard to damage with a rough and smooth side. When properly cared for, these Bats don’t warp. I have not had any warping with the four Plasti-Bats I own. They also don’t shrink or swell.
Easy To Use
If your Bat is NOT too dry or too wet, the Clay sticks really well and will stay on the bat until you remove it. Most potters like to use the rough side. I also like to use the smooth side. You will find that your clay will stick well to either side. It’s nice to have a choice. Clean-up is fast. Even dried-on clay removes easily. Just wipe with a sponge, and you’re done.
Other Features
The Plasti-Bat has ten-inch bat holes, which are pretty standard. They fit most major pottery wheel brands, including Three of My Favorite Pottery Wheels. The Brent CXC, Shimpo RK Whisper, and Speedball Artista. If you throw a piece and don’t have time to design or alter it right away, these bats are great for altering a bit later.
The Runner-Up Is The Speedball Plastic Pottery Wheel Bat
Durability
With proper care, I found the Speedball bats also last a long time. They don’t shrink or swell. With proper care, they do not warp.
Easy To Use
The Clay sticks well to this Bat. With the ribbed design, the clay stays nicely on the bat. You still can’t have too much or too little water on your bat before throwing your clay on it.
Other Features
A nice feature is the ability to keep a piece of wet Pottery on the Bat for a while. With the wooden bats, you can’t leave your pottery on too long, or your bat will inevitably warp. There are many times that I have to cover my piece and finish it later. Having the ability to put it back on the wheel later is a big plus.
These Speedball Plastic Bats come in 3 different sizes: The Speedball 12-inch Round, The Speedball 14-inch Round, and The Speedball 7.5-inch Square. They are made to fit 9 and 10-inch bat pins. The molded plastic is very durable and holds its shape.
A few Differences With The Speedball Bat
- The Bat Holes don’t go through the Bat
Make sure to find the holes and line them up with the bat pins. This is a benefit if your clay covers the entire surface of your bat. - This Bat only has one side
There is no flipping over with this bat because it is made to fit all pottery wheels. - These Bats are made to fit 9 and 10-inch bat pins.
Bat Storage
I enjoy the longevity of plastic bats. Even though they last longer, they should still be properly cared for.
Your bats should always be cleaned and Stored Vertically after every use. This is a good habit to get into.
Keep Your Bat Secure With A BatMate
Bats may get loose over time or feel like they are not sticking to your Wheel the way they used to. For those reasons, I use the Xiem BatMate all the time. It works great. I have both sizes, the 12-inch (30.48cm) and 14-inch (35.56cm). When I’m at the studio, I use different wheels and different bats if I don’t bring my bats. But I don’t leave home without my BatMate. It helps keep any bat you use securely on the wheel.
All you have to do is get your BatMate wet, put it on your wheel, and then place your bat on top. You can rinse it off and let it dry, or place it in a plastic bag; it’s ready for your next use. Either way, where you store it is just fine. It’s up to you.
I hope this helps you make the right choice for your throwing needs. Have a great time throwing.
