I received this rib as part of the clayshare combo… Admittedly, I would have probably only gotten this rib if it were as part of a promo because, after all, it IS just another wood rib, right? The price seemed really steep for such a basic thing that potters use as staple… I WAS SO WRONG— this TOOL IS AMAZING!!!!
Of all the Diamond Core products I have (which are quite a few now), this simple little ingeniously designed piece of wood is my favorite!
Why?
First, it feels nice to hold— it feels like an extension of your fingers. It has a very slight arch when you grip it and is almost “ergonomic” in a way (if ribs can be ergonomic). I throw with a sponge — generally not with a rib… but this feels so good to use, that I enjoy opening and throwing with this rib in-hand.
Second, the thicker, well rounded edge is PERFECT for seamlessly opening centered clay— so much so, that even if you have a few air pockets in the center, it still squeezes them out and makes a beautiful, even surface to open with. Again, I open clay with a sponge— this is WAY BETTER!!
And finally, it just makes beautiful shapes when you throw— the bevel cleans and smooths nicely, the rounded end compresses well, and the whole thing feels like an extension of your fingers.
So … piece of wood worth the price? — DEFINITELY YES! It is a WELL-DESIGNED AND ENGINEERED UBIQUITOUS TOOL