Black Clay
Black clay provides ceramicists with a bold, expressive alternative to traditional clay. This clay provides dramatic contrast, texture, and signature elegance in every piece of pottery, whether you're producing functional tableware, decorative ceramic pieces, or sculptures. Our comprehensive range is curated to provide black stoneware blends that offer versatility and beauty. From smooth black clays ideal for precision modelling, to grogged textured clay suited for hand building, our range is designed to meet the needs of both hobbyists and professionals.
Black Clay in a Range of Shades
These distinctive clays are suitable for sculpting, rolling, or throwing forms with depth and character, and can provide beautiful colour and design once fired in a kiln, with or without glaze. Black clay is not just a single black colour, and our range spans a spectrum of deep, earthy tones, intense greys, and more.
Our selection of shades includes Onyx Black, richly organic Chocolate Black, and cool and versatile options like Berlin Grey or Rokk Grey. Each shade has unique characteristics when fired, and surfaces can be influenced by both glaze and temperature. For example, stoneware clay like Vulcan Black is formulated for strength and rich colour at high temperatures, resulting in a smooth, dense finish.
When paired with glaze, these clays offer subtle tonal differences and can offer end results that are glossy or matte.
Using Black Clay
When this clay is used to create tableware, it can bring a modern, minimal aesthetic or rustic charm. Each clay is carefully formulated to perform whether you're throwing at the wheel or hand building sculptures. They are suitable for shaping, coiling, or even slab building, and are compatible with most glazes and kilns.
For experienced hobbyists or professionals, high-firing options can be used to create strong, food-safe pots, bowls, and more.
When working with black clay bodies, pairing clay and glaze needs careful thought. As these clays fire to a deep, dark colour, light coloured slip can help to create contrast, while decorative coloured stains can also provide decorative layering against the dark black finish of the clay. Test combinations beforehand to ensure you don't ruin a batch of clay.
Why Choose Potclays?
At Potclays, we aim to meet the needs of every potter. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned professional, we provide a wide range of products, curated using over 90 years of experience and expertise to help you complete finished pieces. Find items like raw materials, tools, and accessories, and even kilns on our website.
Not sure about creating using black clay? We have a range of other clay colours available for your ceramics work.
Get in touch if you have any queries or bespoke requirements. We're happy to help.
