Wheel Thrower (Ceramics Manufacturing)
ろくろせいけいこう（とうじきせいぞう）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Potters who rotate clay on a hand-turned or electric potter's wheel and shape ceramics using hands or tools. They handle the process from forming to drying, playing a crucial role in determining product quality.
Description
Wheel throwers are technicians in the initial stage of ceramics manufacturing who rotate clay on a hand wheel or electric wheel and use hands, wooden spatulas, or metal tools to form objects with uniform thickness and beautiful forms. They employ techniques such as centering, rim forming, body shaping, and trimming, and also manage to prevent cracking or warping during drying. After forming, they pass the work to the next processes of glazing and firing, contributing to the completion of the final product. They are valued in a wide range of fields, from traditional crafts to everyday tableware and contemporary artist works.
Future Outlook
Due to the aging population and overseas production, demand is gradually declining, but stable demand is expected in fields such as high-value-added products, custom-made ceramics, and inheritance of traditional techniques.
Personality Traits
Attentive to details / Dexterous with hands, good at fine work / High concentration / Patient
Work Style
Factory Work / Individual Workshop / Traditional Craft Facility Work
Career Path
Apprentice Forming Worker → Skilled Forming Worker → Supervisor Forming Worker → Manufacturing Department Leader → Independence / Potter
Required Skills
Centering Technique / Clay Handling / Drying Management / Thin-walled Forming / Wheel Throwing Technique
Recommended Skills
Basic Glaze Knowledge / Decoration Techniques / Firing Temperature Management / Traditional Craft Techniques
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | High attention to detail is required to maintain uniform thickness and shape. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Physical stamina is necessary to endure long hours of standing work and repetitive tasks. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Since dimension management is done with basic measuring instruments, advanced mathematical analysis is not required. |
Related Qualifications
- Ceramics Manufacturing Technician Grade 1
- Ceramics Manufacturing Technician Grade 2
- Traditional Craftsman
Aliases
- Ceramics Forming Technician
- Ceramics Wheel Potter
Related Jobs
- Ceramics Finisher
- Glaze Applicator
- Kiln Firing Worker
- Potter