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Shimpo Wooden Tools
Shimpo Japanese style wooden tools are designed for precision and ease of use in wheel throwing and handbuilding. These pottery tools offer ergonomic designs and versatility to assist with a range of different throwing techniques, creating different textures, and trimming and shaping during the throwing process. Originating from traditional Japanese pottery practices, these potters' tools blend high-quality craftsmanship with functionality and provide a sense of authenticity and centuries-old finesse to modern practices. Each tool in the Shimpo range is designed to improve control and precision and is suitable for beginners and professionals across several ceramic techniques. Browse our range of Japanese style tools from Shimpo below.
Types of Shimpo Wooden Tools
There is a wide array of tools used to help shape, compress, and decorate clay thrown pieces. From Kigote tools like Hari Gata and Maru Gata to Gyubera ox-tongue options, these hardwood pieces of equipment are carefully selected for their ability to assist with sculpting, throwing, and trimming ceramics.
Learn more about these wooden tools:
Gyubera Ox-Tongue Tools
Gyubera's are traditional wooden ribs used as throwing tools for shaping and compressing the deep walls of clay vessels. With a broad surface that is ideal for refining curves and smoothing clay during the throwing process, these tools - named for their similarity to the shape of an ox's tongue - offer excellent control for potters. Available in a range of sizes and lengths, both large and small, Gyubera tools are particularly useful for the early stages and finishing stages of your creative work, before you trim or apply glaze.
Hari Gata Throwing Tools
The Hari gata is a curved throwing stick or shaping stick that is an essential tool for defining the internal curves of a vessel, or smoothing areas that hands can't access easily. They are elongated and designed to reach into narrow or closed forms, and can be used to improve surface quality before the finished piece is fired in a kiln. These throwing sticks are available in small, medium, and large sizes.
Maru Gata Turning Tools
The Maru gata is a flat disc-shaped tool used during the throwing process to help shape clay bases. With an even surface able to distribute consistent pressure, this tool helps to create stable foundations before the final shaping and building process. They are otherwise known as throwing discs.
Kigushi Combing Tools
A Kigushi is a traditional Japanese combing tool that is perfect for texturing the surface of the clay material before it dries. Dragging the comb through moist clay can help potters create functional scoring to improve the adhesion of glaze, or decorative patterns for design purposes. They are available in a range of sizes, including small, medium, and large, and can be used at any skill level.
Why Choose Potclays?
At Potclays, we don't just stock tools from Shimpo - we have a wide range of tools and accessories to suit any need or requirement. We're a one-stop shop for pottery equipment and materials, from kilns to machinery, for beginners, intermediates, and professionals. No matter your skill level, there's something to suit your pottery style at Potclays.
If you're looking for Japanese-style pottery tools or need advice on which tool can best meet your needs, our expert team is on hand to help. Get in touch for expert advice and support today.
