For this semester, you’ll need to purchase a beginning toolkit from Kentucky Mudworks (link below) in addition to several items from the hardware store, some of which you might already own.
1) Toolkit from Kentucky Mudworks. Most of the clay-specific tools will be included in the IUS Ceramics Toolkit, which you will need to purchase from Kentucky Mudworks (link below). We will have the kits in the studio during the first week, so just go to the link and pay for the toolkit, then you’ll be able to pick it up from the studio.
2) The remaining tools can be purchased at any hardware store, and many can be sourced around your house, apartment, or dorm.
IUS Ceramics Toolkit
This toolkit is made for IUS Ceramics by Kentucky Mudworks in Louisville. Pay for it online and you will be able to pick it up at the IUS Ceramics studio. Buy it HERE
Fork & Spoon
Your everyday fork and spoon. Super handy for clay working, and if you heat up your spaghetti leftovers and forgot your fork? You’re covered.
Small bucket
It doesn’t have to be purple, but find a small bucket for you to use to have water with you while you’re working, and to store your tools in when you’re not working.
Large sponge
Grab a large sponge to use while cleaning and wiping down your work area. Most hardware stores have these in the tile working section.
Shurform
This is a great tool for shaping and fine-tuning your object. It can be found in the hardware store, in the tools section. It’s made by Stanely and it should be about 6 bucks
Plastic bags
You’ll need plastic bags to cover your work to keep it from drying too fast. Shopping bags do not work. Clear bags are best so you can see how your object is positioned underneat the plastic.
Hand towel
Grab a small hand towel to clean and dry your hands off while you’re working. It doesn’t have to be new, so this is a good opportunity to recycle an old one you might have laying around your place.
Things for texturing
Spend a day looking around for good textures on small objects and you’ll find tons of good stuff. Grab an assortment of about 10 small objects that can be used to press into the clay to make cool textures!
Small padlock
Find a small padlock for your locker at school. Please don’t use a big lock, just a small one will suffice.
N95 mask
Normally this would be essential, but this semester (Fall 2020), don’t worry about getting one. They are sold out everywhere so we have changed the course so you will not need one.
Apron
This is optional, but its a good idea to wear an apron while you’re working in clay. It will help the dust off your clothes and is safer for you walking around the rest of the day!
Sketchbook
You can use an existing sketchbook, or start a new one, but you’ll need a place to organize your ideas and notes for the course. You will submit images of your sketches for each project.