Know What You Are Looking For
When looking for a commercial moist clay, you will want to already have a good idea of what characteristics you are looking for. If you are new to pottery, check out
Most commercially available moist clays have been rigorously tested and their characteristics are well documented. The manufacturer or supplier should have data available to you on the clay body's maturation or firing range, the color it is when fired in oxidation and in reduction, total shrinkage, absorption rate, and possibly information about its plasticity and its strength when it is still green.
How to Find Moist Clays
Thanks to the Internet, we can find all sorts of things right at our fingertips, including clays. Be aware, though, that even small amounts of moist clay weigh a lot. That can translate into hefty freighting fees.
Your best bet is to find the pottery or ceramic supplier nearest to you that carries a clay body that you want to work with. Some of the major moist clay manufacturers that you will run across are
- Standard Clay Company
- Laguna Clay Company
- Aardvark Clay: see a chart of their clays
- AMACO (American Art Clay Company): see a chart of their clays
Many pottery suppliers also sell their own moist clay bodies. Check with your supplier.
Commerical Custom-Mixed Clay Bodies
What if you want to use your own clay body recipe, but you don't have the equipment? Check with your pottery supplier. Some suppliers can mix custom clays following your own particular recipe.
Look before you leap, though. Not only will there be a charge per pound for the finished moist clay, but there usually an additional set-up charge and a minimum order amount. Your order may take more time, as well. Producing custom-orders often has to wait until regular production has been completed.
Also, results from the clay body will not be guaranteed at all. It will be assumed that you have already tested the clay body in regards to your own particular needs.
