The 8 Best Banding Wheels

This wiki has been updated 17 times since it was first published in July of 2019. Whether you're an amateur or an expert potter, a banding wheel is one of the best tools you can add to your studio. They're great for decorating and putting the finishing touches on any piece, and their smooth rotation helps to create clean, even lines. From affordable options for beginners to higher-end models suitable for professionals, there's something on our list for everyone. When users buy our independently chosen editorial choices, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

This wiki has been updated 17 times since it was first published in July of 2019. Whether you're an amateur or an expert potter, a banding wheel is one of the best tools you can add to your studio. They're great for decorating and putting the finishing touches on any piece, and their smooth rotation helps to create clean, even lines. From affordable options for beginners to higher-end models suitable for professionals, there's something on our list for everyone. When users buy our independently chosen editorial recommendations, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

1. New Mexico Clay Shimpo-Nidec

Weighing in at a hefty 28 pounds, the New Mexico Clay Shimpo-Nidec (about $121) will spin for much longer than lighter wheels. It's made from nearly indestructible cast iron and equipped with sealed ball bearings, so it can stand up to heavy-duty use.

Coated with rust-resistant paint
Vibrant blue color
Used by many professionals

2. US Art Supply Heavy Duty

Boasting an all-metal construction, the US Art Supply Heavy Duty (around $35) is sturdy and durable, but still light enough to move around easily. It stands over five inches tall, giving you plenty of space to fit your hand beneath to rotate it while you work.

Generous 12-inch diameter
Anti-skid rubber base
Holds up to 50 pounds

3. Creative Hobbies Professional

Perfect for sculpting, carving, and cake decorating, the Creative Hobbies Professional (appx. $45) has a weighted top that adds momentum and allows it to spin longer using its own inertia. It turns smoothly with very little noise and has a rust-resistant coating.

7-inch diameter
Heavier than similarly-sized models
Won't come apart when lifted

4. Darice Sculptor Number 30

The Darice Sculptor Number 30 (appx. $34) has a textured top that provides a good grip, and its heavy base makes it stable and prevents it from tipping over. A rubber plate on the bottom holds it in place and ensures it won't scratch delicate surfaces.

Grooves for easy centering
Over five inches tall
Doesn't wobble while spinning

5. National Artcraft Formica

Compact and portable, the National Artcraft Formica (appx. $57) is only two inches tall and weighs just over five pounds. It's comprised of two 12-inch discs made from pressed hardwoods, and both sides are finished with a laminate surface that's easy to clean.

Moisture-resistant
Heavy-duty rotor
Also good for flower arranging

6. Evwoge Rotating Stand

Great for large projects, the Evwoge Rotating Stand (appx. $39) has a 12-inch diameter and a wide base for stability. There is a nonslip surface on the top to hold your work in place, and a silicone pad on the bottom provides a firm grip on your table or countertop.

Aluminum alloy construction
Stainless steel ball bearings
Good value for the cost

7. National Artcraft 7-Inch

The National Artcraft 7-Inch (about $40) is made from high-grade cast metal and fitted with heavy-duty ball bearings that allow for easy spinning. A non-skid rubber boot on the bottom holds it in place without requiring you to attach it permanently to your work surface.

Weighs just five pounds
Affordably priced
Has a strong chemical smell at first

8. Amaco Turntable

Made from lightweight aluminum, the Amaco Turntable (appx. $39) rotates nearly effortlessly, and the top is marked with concentric circles to help make sure your work is centered. It has a grooved wheel shank that can accommodate a belt for mechanization.

Drilled extensions for mounting
Head can be removed for cleaning
Finish is a bit rough

Last updated by Gabrielle Taylor

Originally from a tiny town in Virginia, Gabrielle moved to Los Angeles for a marketing internship at a well-known Hollywood public relations firm and was shocked to find that she loves the West Coast. She spent two years as a writer and editor for a large DIY/tutorial startup, where she wrote extensively about technology, security, lifestyle, and home improvement. A self-professed skincare nerd, she’s well-versed in numerous ingredients and methods, including both Western and Asian products. She is an avid home cook who has whiled away thousands of hours cooking and obsessively researching all things related to food and food science. Her time in the kitchen has also had the curious side effect of making her an expert at fending off attempted food thievery by her lazy boxer dog.

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