Description

A Soft Rubber Kidney (or pottery rib) is used to compress, shape, and smooth wet clay on the pottery wheel or during hand-building. Its flexible, pliable nature makes it the ideal finishing tool for delicate polishing and contouring.  Does not leave harsh scrape marks or alter the overall form. Consider also Pottery Rib Set.

Key Uses in Clay Works for a Soft Rubber Kidney:

• Surface Smoothing: It is perfect for removing throwing lines, fingerprints, or minor surface imperfections. By gently flexing the rubber against the clay, you can compress the surface and create an ultra-smooth, polished finish.
• Clay Compression: Compress clay walls by using a rib helps align the clay particles. It increases the structural integrity of your piece and reduces the risk of cracking or warping as it dries.
• Shaping and Contouring: Because the rubber bends, you can use it to maintain, refine, or alter the subtle curves of bowls, vases, or plates.
• Slurry Management: Wipe away excess water and “slurry” (liquefied clay) from surfaces while wheel throwing.  Achieve this without digging into or distorting the wall.

How to Use It Effectively:

The trick to using a soft rubber kidney is gentle pressure. Avoid digging the corners or flat edge directly into the clay, which can leave gouge marks. Instead, gently rest the kidney against the spinning or stationary clay and apply even, smooth pressure as you move it across the surface

Rubber Kidneys are finishing rubbers moulded from pliable rubber.  Use for smoothing, shaping and finishing clay pieces.