Honoring Your Hands: A Potter’s Guide to Gentle Care  

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In our studio, we often say that clay meets us where we are—and our hands are the first point of contact. They shape, smooth, carve, and hold. But clay also asks something of them: resilience. Over time, the very things that make pottery so tactile—water, abrasion, repeated washing—can leave hands dry, nails brittle, and skin sensitive.

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This isn’t a flaw—it’s part of the journey. And just as we reclaim clay with care, we can tend to our hands with equal intention.

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Why Clay Dries Out Skin  

It’s not just “dirt.” Three quiet forces are at work:  

1. Water draws out natural oils—especially during long throwing sessions.  
2. Clay is naturally abrasive, even when smooth. Grogged clay (with added fired particles) is especially exfoliating, but all clay gently wears on skin over time.  
3. Tiny clay particles linger after washing, continuing to wick moisture away long after you’ve left the studio.

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The good news? With a few mindful habits, you can keep your hands strong, supple, and ready for your next creation.

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Simple, Studio-Tested Ways to Care for Your Hands  

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1. Start with a barrier  

Before you begin, rub a light layer of moisturizer or balm into your hands, then gently wipe off excess. This creates a subtle shield without compromising your grip.

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2. Add a drop of oil to your throwing water  

A few drops of olive, almond, or even baby oil in your splash pan nourishes your skin with every dip. Don’t worry—the oil burns off cleanly in the kiln.

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3. Choose warmth when you can  

Cold water tightens skin and reduces circulation. If your studio runs cool, warm (not hot) water helps keep hands flexible and comfortable.

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4. Rinse often—but gently  

Wipe or rinse clay off your hands during your session instead of letting it cake and dry. Afterward, wash with a mild, pH-balanced soap. Many of us love African Black Soap for its gentle cleansing and soothing properties.

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5. Restore your skin’s balance  

Clay is alkaline; healthy skin is slightly acidic. Some potters swear by a quick vinegar rinse (diluted apple cider vinegar, followed by moisturizer) to rebalance pH and soothe irritation.

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6. Moisturize like you mean it  

Look for rich, healing balms—not just lotions. Classics like Bag Balm, Udderly Smooth, or Aquaphor have stood the test of time in studios (and farms!) because they truly repair. Apply after washing, and again before bed.

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7. Try overnight healing  

Slather on balm or oil, then slip on lightweight cotton gloves while you sleep. The warmth helps absorption, and you’ll wake up with noticeably softer skin.

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8. Nourish from within  

Hydration and healthy fats (avocados, nuts, olive oil) support skin resilience from the inside out.

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9. Listen to your nails  

As one of our students shared: *“OPI Repair Mode—applied twice daily for 10 days, no polish—really strengthens nails by rebuilding bonds. OPI Nail Envy works too as a protective film.”* If your nails split or peel, this kind of targeted care can make a big difference.

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10. Gloves? Yes—if they serve you  

While bare hands offer the best feel, if you have eczema, sensitivities, or cracked skin, thin nitrile gloves can be a lifeline. Some potters size down for a snug fit to maintain sensitivity. It’s not “cheating”—it’s stewardship.

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A Final Thought  

Your hands tell your story. They carry calluses from coils, faint lines from carving, maybe a nick from trimming—but also the quiet pride of making something real. Caring for them isn’t vanity; it’s respect—for your craft, your body, and your ability to keep creating.

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So tonight, take an extra minute. Rub in that balm. Slip on those gloves. Let your hands rest, heal, and dream of tomorrow’s clay.

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You’ve earned it.

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*With care,  

Your Studio Community*

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