Sparano Arts

I’ve been slowly using more and more Xiem tools recently. They are good quality and affordable priced. The retractable scoring tool is my go to now. I love their glaze brush and (in my opinion) their wood knife/foot shaper is second only to the Garrity T1 wood knife. Here are a few of the aforementioned tools, plus some other favorites and a couple I want to get,:

As I said, I use this constantly and consistently for attachments. It is my go to now.

The Xiem retractable scoring tool provides an ergonomic solution to scoring and storing.
The 6 sharp tines ensure depth and precision of scoring marks with little pressure.
Tines are efficiently retracted back into the plastic sheath for safety when not in use.
Designed in the USA by Kevin Nguyen.
Xiem Tools are the new essentials and the premier choice for clay artists.

This glaze brush is one of the best I’ve ever used. It feels great in the hand, delivers nice even coats, and is easy to control.

Xiem Short Cut Glaze Brushes are hand crafted of superior soft quality goat tail hair for maximum glaze absorbency and German Birch wood handle.
Xiem Short Cut Glaze Brush delivers excellent controlled stroke flow for an even application of ceramic glazes, underglazes, engobes, and slips.
Short cut handle is easy to hold and designed to fit in most toolbox or bag.
Xiem Short Cut Glaze Brushes are not limited to just ceramic glazes, underglazes, engobes, and slips. It is also great for liquid inks and watercolor washes on canvas or paper.

Below are links to other sizes:

I’ve worked with several styles of wood knives/J tools/modeling tools in my career. This one is at the top of my list. It has good heft/hand feel. Cuts and shapes the clay well and the foot shaper on the second half is a great accessory. Below are other styles/variations:

Great for tall pots/narrow necked pots when your got to get that water off the bottom or need to push the body out just a little more.

X-Sponge 3 Telescoping Sponge Stick – smaller sponge
Use to remove the water beyond your reach
Perfect for removing excess water/slip from tall narrow pieces
Extends up to 23 inches tall
Designed in California

These are good quality carving/sculpting tools. I’ve included other sets below. If you’ve bought the other carving tools featured on the previous page and want to upgrade, but don’t feel ready or want to spend the money for Diamondcore yet, these are a good investment.