How to use a pottery profile template
A profile template (also called a rib or throwing guide) is a physical cut-out that matches the intended internal or external curve of a pottery form. When pressed lightly against a rotating piece on the wheel, it transfers the curve to the clay.
- Design your profile shape in the tool above. The live preview shows the curve at screen scale.
- Download the PDF and print at 100% / Actual Size. Do not scale to fit.
- Verify the calibration bar printed at the correct physical length before cutting.
- Cut along the profile line with scissors or a craft knife.
- Use the template as a throwing rib or profile guide on the wheel or hand-building surface.
Curve types
- Circular arc — a consistent radius curve, good for simple bowl profiles and wide cylinder shoulders.
- Elliptical — a flatter arc at the top that curves more steeply at the sides, useful for wide low bowls.
- S-curve — an inflection curve, used for forms that swell outward then taper back in, or for classical vessel shoulders.
- Tapered wall — a straight angled line, useful for open plates and platters with consistent wall angle.
Materials for making the template
Print onto card stock (200–300 gsm) for a template that handles repeated contact with wet clay. Laminating with a self-adhesive film before cutting extends the template's life significantly. Thin craft foam or styrene sheet can also be used for a more rigid template.