Paper Clay

Paper clay is a highly versatile clay body known for its exceptional flexibility and strength, making it ideal for creating intricate details and complex forms that can be difficult to achieve with traditional clay. At Potterycrafts, our range of paper clays is popular with artists and ceramic makers who require a material that offers both creative freedom and structural reliability.

Paper clay is a unique type of clay that is known for its incredible flexibility and strength. It is a favourite among artists and crafters for its ability to create intricate details and textures that are not always possible with traditional clay. It is ideal for intricate work, for pottery wheels, and all firing techniques. It is important to note that paper clay is not suitable for firing in a kiln like traditional clay, as the
cellulose fibres would burn away.

Paper clay is made by mixing clay with paper pulp or cellulose fibres, resulting in a lightweight yet robust material that dries evenly and resists cracking. This makes it particularly well suited to larger ceramic pieces, sculptural work and detailed surface textures. Depending on the specific formulation, paper clay can be used across a range of making techniques including hand building and wheel work. During firing, the paper fibres burn out, leaving a strong ceramic structure while helping to reduce stress and warping during the drying and firing process.

Paper clay at a glance

Highly flexible and strong ideal for detailed work
Lightweight structure suited to large or complex forms
Even moisture transfer helps reduce cracking
Uses: sculptural work hand building wheel work and ceramics

Paper Clay

Amaco Claycrete Paper Mache

Potterycrafts ES200 Smooth Body Paper Clay

Potterycrafts ES300 Grogged Body Paper Clay