Put down, plug in and get throwing. Anywhere.
The Shimpo RK-5T tabletop is the smallest pottery wheel from Shimpo. It is designed with compactness and portability as the main goal.
You’re probably thinking that this means that the RK-5T lacks quality. You couldn’t be more wrong.
The Shimpo RK5T Aspire tabletop potter’s throwing wheels hugely versatile, offering high performance in a tiny package. This tabletop potter’s wheel can handle a lot.
Its lightweight, compact design allows you to pick it up, plug it in and get throwing anywhere, yet its 10kg centring capability makes it a permanent addition to any studio or classroom.
The included electronic controller will maintain your desired speed at all times.
Available with hand lever or foot pedal control.
Check out this review for more information.
You can also have a look at this video and this video.
Features:
Specifications
Motor Power: 100 W (⅛ HP) DC motor with brushes
→ Compact, smooth-running motor ideal for small projects and teaching use. Quiet and reliable for light to medium work.
Centring Capacity: 9 kg (20 lb) manufacturer rated
→ Suitable for everyday studio pieces like mugs, bowls, and plates. In real use, you’d comfortably throw up to around 6–7 kg of clay.
| Type of piece |
Approx height |
Clay used (wet weight) |
Notes |
| Mug |
9–10 cm |
400–500 g |
Typical beginner practice weight |
| Bowl |
15–18 cm |
1–2 kg |
Everyday throwing size |
| Dinner plate |
25–28 cm |
2–3 kg |
Wide diameter, moderate depth |
| Medium vase |
25–30 cm |
3–5 kg |
Needs a stable wheel and good torque |
| Large vase |
35–45 cm |
6–10 kg |
What most people mean by “large” — a tall form with some girth |
| Extra-large planter / urn |
50 cm + |
12–20 kg
|
Commercial/industrial territory — heavy, two-piece throwing or coil-build |
Speed Control: Lever control
→ Simple and direct — perfect for trimming, demos, and fine speed adjustments.
Speed Range: 0 – 230 rpm
Wheel-head Direction: Clockwise / Counter-clockwise
Wheel-head: 178 mm (7 in) light-alloy casting.
Drive System: DC motor with brush
→ Delivers reliable torque with low noise and minimal maintenance.
Dimensions: 365 mm (W) × 515 mm (D) × 230 mm (H)
→ Compact desktop footprint - perfect for home studios or mobile teaching setups.
Weight: 12 kg (shipping)
→ Lightweight and portable while still stable for small-scale throwing.
🧱 In real use
You can comfortably throw:
A portable, quiet wheel for beginners or travelling potters — stable, compact, and easy to store.
This lever-controlled wheelhead is designed for precision and ease of use in pottery and clay work, with a powerful 1/8 HP motor and versatile speed control. The light alloy casting ensures durability and stability, while the included plastic bats provide convenience for your pottery projects.
Shimpo RK-5T User manual
Perfect for:
This wheel is perfect for people on a tighter budget, with limited space or people who like to move their pottery wheel around.
Delivery:
Delivery is free, takes 5-7 days and will be delivered kerbside.
All Shimpo Potter's Wheels come with a 2-year full warranty.
