Sieving glazes is probably not at the top of most potters' lists of their favorite parts of the ceramic process. But it is a necessary step if you mix your glazes. That's why I was so excited about Brett Wulc's Quick Tip in the February 2025 issue of Ceramics Monthly.
In this post, Brett shares how he uses an inexpensive, readily available auto-detailing drill attachment to make quick work of glaze sieving! Genius! –Jennifer Poellot Harnetty, editor
As potters, I feel like we’re always trying to create our own tools as a workaround to the real deal. Some things you’re better off buying from the source, say a wheel or even a loop tool. Yet, there’s a good chance you’d rather
throw a chuck than buy a centering tool or pour your own plaster slabs rather than buy a wedging table.
After working as a studio tech throughout college, one of the tools I miss most is a rotary glaze sieve (I feel like a pugmill goes without saying). I can’t tell you how many days I’ve spent bent over a 5-gallon bucket with my rubber rib and
80-mesh sieve. Slowly passing glaze, ladle after ladle. That’s until a buddy William Duvall (@williamspottery) said I needed to stop messing
around and buy a car wash drill attachment. I couldn’t believe my eyes! For a mere $10, you can turn any drill into a rotary tool to use with a standard sieve (1).
You can find these kits just about anywhere on the internet, and each brush fits a variety of drills (mine is for an impact drill). The trigger on my drill is super sensitive, so I’ll pour a few cups of glaze into my 80-mesh sieve and slowly spin
the drill brush until all the glaze passes through (2). Save some time, your back, and most importantly your wallet. Thanks again, Will!
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Published Feb 17, 2025
As potters, I feel like we’re always trying to create our own tools as a workaround to the real deal. Some things you’re better off buying from the source, say a wheel or even a loop tool. Yet, there’s a good chance you’d rather throw a chuck than buy a centering tool or pour your own plaster slabs rather than buy a wedging table.
After working as a studio tech throughout college, one of the tools I miss most is a rotary glaze sieve (I feel like a pugmill goes without saying). I can’t tell you how many days I’ve spent bent over a 5-gallon bucket with my rubber rib and 80-mesh sieve. Slowly passing glaze, ladle after ladle. That’s until a buddy William Duvall (@williamspottery) said I needed to stop messing around and buy a car wash drill attachment. I couldn’t believe my eyes! For a mere $10, you can turn any drill into a rotary tool to use with a standard sieve (1).
You can find these kits just about anywhere on the internet, and each brush fits a variety of drills (mine is for an impact drill). The trigger on my drill is super sensitive, so I’ll pour a few cups of glaze into my 80-mesh sieve and slowly spin the drill brush until all the glaze passes through (2). Save some time, your back, and most importantly your wallet. Thanks again, Will!
Unfamiliar with any terms in this article? Browse our glossary of pottery terms!
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