Simple Pottery Foot Thickness Gauge

This tool is designed to provide a quick and intuitive way to measure the thickness of a vessel's base during throwing, allowing you to accurately estimate the amount of clay remaining for final shaping and refinement.

How to Use:

1. Place the base of the gauge on the wheel bat or any flat, stable surface.
2. Gently lower the rod until it touches the bottom of the pot.
3. The number just above the contact point indicates the base thickness.

Key Features:

• Easy to use
• Allows for quick thickness checks without interrupting the throwing process.
• Helps manage the amount of clay left, ensuring enough material for refinement.
• Measures base thickness between 1 and 3 cm; if less than 1 cm, consider rethrowing; if more than 1 cm, continue lowering the base.

Printing Notes:

• Designed to be printed on a standard 3D printer bed (e.g., Prusa).
• Both the main gauge and the v2 version (for smaller wheels) can be printed on a single build plate.
• To make the numbers and marks more visible, they are recessed. Use a light-colored marker (e.g., Posca) to highlight them.

Improvements in v2:

The updated "v2" version is designed for use with slightly smaller wheels or for narrower vessels.

If you require a gauge for taller pots, feel free to reach out and I will be happy to assist you in creating a customized version.