Do I need to use bats on my pottery wheel or can I do pottery without them?

Question:
I can't find any websites that tell me whether or not I do. All I can find are links telling me about all the different types of bats that I COULD buy. If you could tell me that you be GREAT! Thank you for your time!

Answer:
Great question! Technically, no, you don't need a removable bat on your pottery wheel head to throw a pot. I have thrown a LOT of pots directly on the wheel head.

Here are some things to consider though:
- It's easier to get your pot off the wheel with a bat
- Theoretically, using a bat will save wear and tear on your wheel head

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