Calipers

What, exactly, are Calipers?
Many potters and crafters find calipers to be one of the most needed tools of their trade. Calipers are needed for measuring openings in jars and other forms. They are also used to take the measurements of parts that fit into openings as well. Potters can use calipers to measure the depression in a saucer so that a matching cup will fit it.

Steel Calipers

Price: $7

These steel calipers are lightweight steel instruments for accurate inside or outside measuring.

Measuring a Pots with Lids
Many potters design pots with lids. They must measure the opening of each pot to ensure that the lid will fit properly. Lids usually fit down into the pot; therefore, the opening diameter will need to be taken. In the following, there are some simple instructions on using calipers for this task.

• For easy movement of caliper arms, loosen wing nut. Do not over loosen as this will make calipers friction free.
• Arms of calipers should be allowed to slide until they are outwardly pointed. Manipulate arms until they are as near opening edges as possible without cutting into clay.
• Make sure calipers are exactly across the middle of opening.
• Tighten wing nut in order to make sure that arms of caliper will not shift. Be sure to re-check measurements.