About Us

A number of years ago, as a beginning potter, and coming from a background of woodworking, I was faced with the need for more varied throwing tools. Generic ones didn’t really match my needs or my esthetic, so I chose to make my own. When I first brought my new ribs and other tools to the studio, so much interest was generated that I went home to my shop and began to make them for sale to my fellow clay artists. A period of development based on shape, size, and utility, led me to where I am today: a full-time toolmaker and aspiring ceramic artist.

I am excited currently to be able not only earn money doing something I love, but also share my success. I have a strong social conscience and believe in service and charity. I currently donate 10% of my Gross Proceeds to charity; 5% to Habitat for Humanity and 5% to Meals on Wheels. As my business grows, I hope to be able increase those percentages and add to my list of recipients. Ten cents on every dollar you spend is going to charity, so know you are helping people out as you are buying these tools. Thank you for making it possible.

My ribs were designed to be both functional and pleasing to the eye. Smooth curves and a finely sanded surface make them pleasing to hold as well. Each rib’s outside curve inscribes a perfect radius, and the rib number corresponds to the diameter of bowl for which it was designed. The rib ends are different radii, adding to the versatility of its use. Using multiple ribs of graduating sizes makes it easy to execute a series of nesting bowls. I offer ribs in eight sizes: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, and 14, for ease in producing pieces ranging from a tea bowl to a giant platter.

I make two throwing sticks. The Compression Stick has great utility in its feathered flat end, which is used to compress cylinder bottoms and to clean up that rounded bottom inside corner prior to raising the wall higher. The Throwing Stick is indispensable for those who enjoy throwing a narrow-necked vase, but have large hands like me making internal shaping difficult, and enables the user to reach deeply into a piece, expand and shape the wall, and also be able to create a nice shoulder, due to its offset end and 17” length. Material for both sticks is selected for their grain to ensure strength under stress.

My standard tools are made from poplar, a hardwood which I found to be both workable and durable under regular use in contact with clay and water. Finishing with three coats of polyurethane assures a long life. I also offer a limited line made from exotic hardwoods such as wenge, chechen, purple heart, lacewood, and quarter-sawn oak. While I use a laser to cut and engrave the poplar tools, the exotic hardwoods are cut and shaped by hand, and finished to a higher standard for beauty