Handbuilding a sponge holder is achievable for any new potter
When you’re learning pottery, it’s exciting to create pieces that are both practical and beautiful. One of the simplest and most satisfying beginner projects is the Potterings sponge holder. Not only is it quick to make, but it also makes a wonderful handmade gift that friends and family will actually use every single day.
Why a Sponge Holder?
At first glance, a sponge holder might seem like a small project, but it packs a lot of benefits:
- Practical: Keeps your sponge upright so it dries quickly and doesn’t turn slimy.
- Space-saving: Sits neatly by the sink, freeing up counter space.
- Gift-worthy: A handmade sponge holder is thoughtful, functional, and something most people wouldn’t think to buy for themselves.
Materials You’ll Need
- Clay (stoneware is durable for kitchen use)
- Potter’s needle or cutting tool
- A small slab roller or rolling pin
- Wooden rib or scraper
- A sponge (yes, the same kind you’ll use in the holder—great for sizing!)
Step 1: Prepare the Clay
Roll out a slab about ¼ inch thick. Try to keep the thickness even—too thin and the holder may chip, too thick and it may crack during firing.
Step 2: Shape the Base
Cut a rectangle or oval about the size of your sponge, plus a little extra room on the sides. This will be the bottom of your holder. Smooth the edges with a rib so it feels nice to touch.
Step 3: Add the Walls
- Cut one curved piece of clay to form the front and back walls. The front wall should be shorter, leaving space for the sponge to peek out.
- Score and slip the edges before attaching the walls to the base.
- Blend and smooth the seams inside and out for strength.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
- Use your actual sponge to test the fit—adjust as needed while the clay is still damp.
- Add drainage by cutting a small hole and a spout in the wall base.
- Decorate with stamps, textures, or a carved pattern.
Step 5: Dry, Fire, and Glaze
Dry the sponge holder slowly and evenly to prevent warping. Once bisque fired, glaze with a food-safe, easy-to-clean glaze—shiny glazes work especially well in the kitchen because they wipe down easily.
Creative Ways to Use a Sponge Holder
While it’s designed for the kitchen sink, a sponge holder is more versatile than you might think:
- Bathroom: Hold a soap bar or reusable cotton rounds.
- Crafts: Store sponges, trimming tools, or brushes.
- Office: Use it as a business card holder or desk organizer.
Why It Makes a Great Gift
A sponge holder is the perfect combination of useful and thoughtful. Unlike mugs or bowls, people don’t usually own more than one or two, so it’s unlikely to get lost in a cupboard. Every time the recipient uses it, they’ll think of you. Plus, it’s small and easy to ship or wrap, making it an ideal gift for holidays, housewarmings, or even a “just because” surprise.
Final Thoughts
Making a pottery sponge holder is a rewarding project for beginners. It teaches slab construction, simple joining, and decorative finishing while resulting in a highly functional piece. And best of all, whether you keep it by your own sink or gift it to someone special, it’s a daily reminder of the joy that handmade pottery brings into everyday life. You can make a sponge holder during any of the Potterings Open Studio sessions on Wednesdays, 6-8 PM. In September, we’ll be focusing on this project. Register here for a Potterings Open Studio session.