The Clay Ruler – Usage Guide
What is a Clay Ruler?
You’re halfway through throwing a piece, its going really well… Then you stop. You pick up a ruler, measure your work, put the ruler back down, pick the rib back up and try to get back into the flow again. But your rhythm is broken by all of the stop-starting, making throwing feel like a chore. This is the exact problem the Clay Ruler Rib was designed to solve.
At its core, the Clay Ruler Rib incredibly simple tool. It is a wooden rib with laser engraved measurements along its edge. It behaves just like a normal rib, supports and shapes the clay but it also tells you exactly what size you’re making. This means you are both shaping and measuring in the same movement, without breaking your rhythm!
Why this Matters, Alot!
When you’re throwing, it’s very rare that you will be making just one piece, you typically want to make a set. Whether this is mugs, bowls or plates or whether they’re for use at home or for selling to customers consistency is key to getting the high quality ceramics every time.
For example, if you wanted to throw a mug with a:
- 100mm diameter
- 120mm height
You need to hit those numbers consistently. The Clay Ruler Rib allows you to check the height whilst you’re pulling the wall, check the diameter as you’re shaping and make adjustments instantly mid-flow.
How to Use a Clay Rib Ruler
Now that you know all about the advantages of using the Clay Ruler Rib, lets learn how to apply this in practice. Here are the key steps:
- Place it against the outside wall of the clay
- Use it to support and guide your shape
- Glance at your measurement markings whilst you throw
- Adjust pressure or position as needed
It’s as simple as that! Use it as you would any other rib, and it will become part of your process – rather than an add-on. You can also watch the video below from @mae.ceramics on instagram, if you would like to see it in action!
What Size Should I pick?
The Clay Ruler Rib comes in multiple sizes, so make sure to select the one that best matches how you work. Here’s a break down of each option available:
Sizes:
- 15 cm
- 6 inch
- 30 cm
- 12 inch
Orientation:
- Left-handed
- Right-handed
The sizes are very simple, if you typically work with ceramics that are 15cm/6″ or under in height or diameter choose these. For bigger size ceramics, choose the 30cm/12″ options. Then, you should choose your measurement unit depending on what you’re most comfortable with. Typically reference to your pottery in imperial inches? Then choose inches! This same logic can then be applied for metric units.
The orientation determines what side of the rib your measurements are on. This is very important, as if you order the wrong one you’ll end up twisting your body or adjusting your position just to read it. Over time, that will become frustrating. The key decision maker here is whether you typically hold your ribs in your right hand or left hand. Once you know this, just select the orientation that matches your preference!
Why the Hartley & Noble Clay Ruler Rib?
The Hartley & Noble Clay Ruler Rib is a premium, wooden rib with laser engraved graduations. Here’s a summary of some of its key advantages:
- Our premium MDF wood allows for a smooth, controlled contact with the clay
- It provides enough rigidity to support the wall of your clay
- Gives a natural feel that doesn’t fight against your hands
- The engraved graduations are permanent – they don’t wear off like printed scales
If you would like to purchase one of your own, Click Here to go to our product page!
