Pottery wheels can be a great way to help your little ones explore their creativity.
Pottery wheels can be used for more than self-expression, though. They can also encourage your child to work through any sensory issues and encourage tactile experiences. This can help your little one reach all the expected developmental milestones.
There are loads of pottery wheels created for kids out there, but we wanted to hunt down the best. Let’s take a look at what we found.
- Great for beginners
- Includes projects and supplies
- Built-in tool keepers
- Great for experienced potters
- Easy hands free operation
- Includes accessories
- Realistic accessories
- Multiple spin speeds
- Includes project materials
- Lots of accessories included
- Affordable
- Air dry clay, no baking necessary
- Battery-powered
- Complete set
- No baking required
- Great price point
- Suitable for younger children
- Creates real pottery
- Left-handed function
- Foot pedal
- Includes tools and instructions
The Best Pottery Wheels for Kids of 2023
Here are our favorite potter wheels for kids to consider.
1. Cool Maker Pottery Studio
Best Starter Kit
If you want to hit the ground running, consider this kit that comes with everything you need to begin learning pottery. It includes supplies for six different projects, including a jewelry holder and a smartphone holder.
This pottery studio also includes two sculpting tools, two coring tools, two sleeves, and a paintbrush. Ten different metallic colored paints and an instruction guide also come with the set. You’ll receive 2 pounds of non-toxic air-drying clay to craft whatever your heart desires.
This wheel runs on four C batteries (not included) and is intended for children ages 6 and up. There’s no pedal, but you have a choice of two speeds. Overall, it’s a simple-to-use unit that’s great for a first-time pottery experience.
Pros
- Great for beginners.
- Includes projects and supplies.
- Built-in tool keepers.
Cons
- No foot pedal.
- Runs exclusively on batteries.
Product Specs
Dimensions | 4 inches x 14 inches x 11.1 inches |
Weight | 5.2 pounds |
Power Source | C batteries |
Operating Mechanism | Switch |
Package Includes | Studio, spray bottle, tool holder, clay, tools, paint, instruction book |
2. Faber-Castell Pottery Studio
Best for Budding Artists
Have a child who shows a natural aptitude for art? If you think your kid will be interested in pottery for some time, you may want something they can grow with. This pottery studio features a foot-pedal operation that suits both beginners and established potters.
The kit comes with everything your child needs to get started: 3 pounds of clay, a six-piece toolset, an apron, and a table cover. An instruction manual and additional supplies are also included.
This unit runs on four C batteries, which aren’t included. The clay is air-dry and meets current safety standards so that it won’t harbor bacteria. For ages 8+.
Pros
- Great for experienced potters.
- Foot pedal.
- Includes accessories.
Cons
- Spins slowly.
- Runs exclusively on batteries.
Product Specs
Dimensions | 12.5 inches x 8.3 inches x 3.6 inches |
Weight | 1 pound |
Power Source | C batteries |
Operating Mechanism | Foot pedal |
Package Includes | Studio, toolset, clay, paint, instruction book, apron, table cover, glaze, sponge |
3. IAmGlobal Pottery Wheel
Great for Inspiring Creativity
This unit is battery-operated and features a switch. Batteries are not included, so make sure you have them on hand. This wheel doesn’t have an AC adapter option, either.
In addition to the pottery wheel, this set comes with pottery tools and paint. You’ll also receive some air-drying clay so your little one can get straight to creating works of art. They can choose from two different speeds to fine-tune their skills.
Replacement clay is available, but any type of clay can be used. For best results, though, you’ll want to make sure it’s a moist clay that’s easy to work with. Designed for children 8 years and older.
Pros
- Realistic accessories.
- Multiple spin speeds.
- Includes project materials.
Cons
- Exclusively runs on batteries.
Product Specs
Dimensions | 13.3 inches x 9.6 inches x 3.3 inches |
Weight | 3 pounds |
Power Source | Batteries |
Operating Mechanism | Switch |
Package Includes | Pottery wheel, sculpting tools, clay, paint, paintbrushes, cutting wire, paint tray. |
4. Made By Me Pottery Wheel Kit
Most Realistic Pottery Wheel for Kids
If your child wants to feel like they’re doing authentic pottery, this kit is one of the best options. It comes with a foot pedal to power up the motorized wheel, so they’ll be practicing for the real craft!
It also comes with a range of handy tools to make the most amazing crafts. Gifts for the neighbors? Family? Classmates? This is a beneficial product to have nearby! Cure hours of boredom, too. You can use the tools to sculpt artistic designs. Plus, there are a few paint pots so your little one can design their creation however they like.
This is designed for ages six and up but it will require parent supervision to learn to use it. It’s not the easiest hobby to get the hang of, so make sure you’re nearby to help your little one as they learn the ropes.
Pros
- Feels like the real thing.
- Lots of accessories included such as paint, brush and foot pedal.
- Affordable.
- Air dry clay; no baking necessary.
Cons
- Hard for kids to use.
- Clay is hard and difficult to shape.
Product Specs
Dimensions | 15.5 inches by 7 inches by 12.5 inches |
Weight | 4.1 pounds |
Power Source | Battery powered |
Operating Mechanism | Foot pedal |
Package Includes | Motorized pottery wheel, foot pedal, air-dry clay, pottery making tools, clay tools, paints, cutting cord |
5. Insnug Pottery Wheel
Great for Small Projects
This brightly colored pottery wheel from Insnug is great for a coordinated child. It’s designed to help your kid create symmetrical pieces even when they’re still mastering their skills.
This features hand operation and needs three C batteries.
You get air-drying clay and a nice paint and glaze kit. No need for baking pots! Other tools include 12 paint colors, paintbrushes, sculpting tools, a sponge, and 2 air dry clays. Colorful stickers are also included so your little artist can enjoy embellishing their beautiful works.
This set also comes with an instructional book with useful ideas on how to get your wheel up and running. Best for children aged 8 and over.
Pros
- Battery-powered.
- Complete set.
- No baking required.
Cons
- Exclusively battery operated.
Product Specs
Dimensions | 14.8 inches x 9.57 inches x 3.46 inches |
Weight | 3.61 pounds |
Power Source | C batteries |
Operating Mechanism | Switch |
Package Includes | Pottery wheel, foot pedal, clay, tools, paint, instruction book |
6. Cra-Z-Art Pottery Wheel
Best Budget Pottery Wheel for Kids
If you’re searching for a budget-friendly pottery wheel kit for your child, take a look at this great option. It comes with all the accessories needed to get started on projects.
It’s a foot-pedal design and needs C batteries to operate, which aren’t included. There’s an “on/off” switch in addition to the foot pedal. You’ll need to set the switch to “on” to engage the foot pedal and activate the spinning mechanism.
This unit is intended for younger children and suits kids up to 8 years of age. As with most kits, some clay is included, but if you run out, replacements are available. Or use whatever clay you have on hand!
Pros
- Great price point.
- Suitable for younger children.
- Foot pedal.
Cons
- Batteries required.
- Loud.
Product Specs
Dimensions | 12.2 inches x 11.2 inches x 13.2 inches |
Weight | 2.2 pounds |
Power Source | C batteries |
Operating Mechanism | Foot pedal |
Package Includes | Pottery wheel, foot pedal, clay, tools, paint, instruction book |
7. MindWare Pottery Wheel
Great for Left Handed Users
If you have a left-handed child, you know left-handed handicrafts can be difficult. This wheel from MindWare allows left-handed children to enjoy pottery because a simple switch changes the direction and speed it spins.
Though there’s a switch, there’s also a foot pedal. It also runs off of an AC adapter instead of batteries, which makes it more affordable to operate. Tools and an instructional book are included, along with a little clay to get your child started.
An interesting feature is the “safety stop” which pauses the rotation if too much pressure is applied, helping your child better understand how to work with clay. For children aged 7 and up.
Pros
- Left-handed function.
- Foot pedal.
- AC adapter.
- Includes tools and instructions.
Cons
- Loud.
- Motor is not very strong.
Product Specs
Dimensions | 15 inches x 16 inches x 3 inches |
Weight | 1 pound |
Power Source | AC adapter |
Operating Mechanism | Foot pedal, switch |
Package Includes | Pottery wheel, AC adapter, clay, tools, paint, instruction book |
Product | Award | Dimensions | Weight | Power Source | Mechanism |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Cool Maker | Best Starter Kit | 4″ x 14″ x 11.1″ | 5.2 lbs | C-batt | Switch |
Faber-Castell | Best For Budding Artists | 12.5″ x 8.3″ x 3.6″ | 1 lb | C-batt | Foot pedal |
IAmGlobal | Great For Creativity | 13.3″ x 9.6″ x 3.3″ | 3 lbs | Batteries | Switch |
Made By Me Pottery Kit | Most Realistic | 15.5″ x 7″ x 12.5″ | 4.1 lbs | Batteries | Foot pedal |
Insnug Pottery | Great For Small Projects | 14.8″ x 9.57″ x 3.46″ | 3.61 lbs | C-batt | Switch |
Cra-Z-Art | Best Budget Pick | 12.2″ x 11.2″ x 13.2″ | 2.2 lbs | C-batt | Foot pedal |
MindWare | Great For Left Handed | 15″ x 16″ x 3″ | 1 lb | AC adapter | Foot pedal, switch |
What Is a Pottery Wheel?
A pottery wheel is a tool that helps you mold your masterpieces. The wheel spins, freeing your hands to shape the wet clay. Once it’s reached the desired shape and size, it can be baked or finished, according to the clay you’re using.
On the fence about getting a pottery wheel because you’re afraid of the mess? It may help to know that using one comes with a host of benefits. It improves hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills and encourages what many consider an unpleasant tactile sensation.
A pottery wheel gives your little one a positive sensory experience, a creative outlet, and a sense of skill and accomplishment.
Types of Pottery Wheels
Generally speaking, pottery wheels differ in how the spinning mechanism operates, with most of them spinning mechanically. Two main types are foot pedal and switch operated, each with its pros and cons.
Foot Pedal Operated
A foot pedal pottery wheel operates a bit like a sewing machine. Simply apply pressure to the pedal with your foot while it sits on the floor. This engages the spinning mechanism and allows the pottery wheel to turn.
A foot pedal can give you much more control, but it requires a little more focus and coordination. Your child will need to use both the foot pedal and shape the clay with their hands simultaneously.
This kind of wheel is a great long-term option for an older child. It may be too complicated for a younger child to use easily, though. Great for ages 8+.
Pros
- Great for more nuanced control.
- Leaves user hands-free to attend to the clay.
Cons
- It can require more coordination.
- May be difficult for young children.
Switch Operated
Pottery wheels that are switch-operated have an “on” switch that triggers the spinning mechanism. This kind of pottery wheel may be equipped with multiple speed options.
Switch-operated pottery wheels don’t offer the kind of control a foot pedal pottery wheel does. They do, however, allow you to focus entirely on your hands and shaping the clay. This makes it a great option for young children (6+) who are just learning to work with clay.
Pros
- Allows the user to focus on the clay.
- Simple to use.
Cons
- Doesn’t allow for precise control.
- Offers limited speeds.
How to Choose the Best Pottery Wheel
When shopping for a pottery wheel for your child, keep the following considerations in mind.
- How long do you plan to use it? Are you looking for a wheel to grow with your child? Invest in something larger with more features.
- How do you want it to operate? Think about which spinning mechanism will best suit your child.
- How old is your child? More sophisticated pottery wheels can be difficult for young children to use, so choose appropriately.
- What’s your budget? Pottery wheels range in price, so make sure you have a firm idea of what you’re willing to spend before you start shopping.
Creating with the Perfect Pottery Wheel
Pottery wheels can add a new level of fun to your child’s arts and crafts experiences. Whatever pottery wheel you decide is best for your little one, you’re sure to enjoy seeing the joy it brings them. You’ll love getting to hold on to their works of art as well.
Have you made pottery with your kids before? We’d love to hear the good and the bad — and what you feel is a must-have in a pottery wheel. Leave us a note below in the comment section.