Clay Studio Series – YouTube Video Review: DIY Stoneware Plates

If you’ve ever dreamed of making your own dinnerware but thought you needed fancy tools or a pottery wheel, this YouTube tutorial by Jana Storm is a must-watch. In this video, Jana walks us through the process of creating handmade stoneware plates using simple methods and beginner-friendly tips.

Jana shows how to shape and form plates using stoneware clay with 25% chamotte in white. What makes this tutorial so appealing is that she proves you don’t need a wheel to create functional, food-safe ceramics. She also shares tips for pottering at home and reassures beginners that even without a full studio setup, you can still make beautiful pieces.

Why We Love It

Accessible: No wheel required, just basic hand-building techniques.
Practical: The plates are food-safe and even dishwasher-friendly after firing.
Educational: Jana explains firing at 1250°C and where to find kilns if you don’t own one (check out kilnshare.com or your local pottery studio).
Inspiring: With her calm approach, she makes the art of ceramics feel doable for everyone.

Materials and Glazes Used

To finish the plates, Jana uses liquid glazes from BOTZ:

Green Granite
Beige Granite
Grey Basalt

She also works with a simple pottery tool starter set, showing that you don’t need an expensive kit to get started.

Craft Gossip’s Take

This video is a perfect entry point for anyone curious about ceramics. The tutorial is well-paced, easy to follow, and practical for home hobbyists. While it does require kiln access, Jana gives great advice for finding one nearby. The finished plates are not only beautiful but also functional — making this tutorial both inspiring and useful.

If you’ve been thinking about trying your hand at DIY stoneware pottery, this is the video to start with.

Next Polymer Clay Idea:

DIY Metal Clay: How to Make Your Own Silver and…

What Type of Clay Should I Use? Comparing Three Stoneware Bodies

If there’s one question that potters—especially beginners—ask over and over again, it’s this: “What type of clay should I use?” With so many options available, from smooth white bodies to gritty, speckled stonewares, the choice can feel overwhelming. In this Clay Studio Series feature, we’re reviewing a video that takes the guesswork out by throwing, trimming, and comparing three distinct stoneware clays side by side.

Why This Video Stands Out

Instead of just talking about clay in theory, the potter works directly with three clay bodies and shows the differences in real time. You can see how each clay reacts on the wheel, how it trims when leather-hard, and what kinds of issues may arise depending on the body you choose. This hands-on comparison makes it far easier to understand than simply reading product labels.

The video also tackles a common curiosity: the pink-toned ES80 stoneware, often admired for its warm coloring. The creator points out that this clay is manufactured for reduction firing and won’t give the same results in oxidation, a detail that often gets overlooked by beginners.

Key Lessons for Beginners

Not All Clay is Equal: Some clay bodies are far more forgiving for new potters, while others require more experience to manage.
Know Your Firing Method: Certain clays, like ES80, are formulated specifically for reduction kilns. Using them in an electric oxidation kiln may leave you disappointed.
Texture & Plasticity Matter: Smooth clays can be easier to throw but may slump when trimming. Grittier bodies hold structure but can be harder on your hands.
There’s No Single “Best” Clay: Each clay has its pros and cons — the trick is matching your choice to your skill level and the project you have in mind.

Why We Recommend Watching

For beginners, choosing the right clay can mean the difference between frustration and success. This video demystifies the process by giving a clear visual comparison of three popular stoneware options. By the end, you’ll have a better idea of what qualities to look for in a clay body and which ones might fit your needs best.

For intermediate and advanced potters, the insights are still valuable. Even if you’ve been working with one clay for years, seeing how others handle could inspire you to experiment with something new.

This review proves that clay choice is less about finding a universal “best” and more about learning what works for you. Whether you want smooth, easy-to-handle clay for your first mugs or a robust, grogged body for sculptural pieces, this video is a fantastic guide to help you make a confident decision.

Watch the full video here: What Type of Clay Should I Use?