The Nerikomi X1 is the worlds first automated machine that accurately cuts shapes into clay. 2D digital designs are sent to the machine from a computer, which instructs the machine to move the cutting wire in different directions. By doing and it can cut intricate designs that would be difficult or impossible to do by hand. These shapes of clay can be removed from the machine, stacked and layered together to create colourful patterns which are formed into unique ceramic vessels.
This machine is the automation of a traditional ceramic crafts called nerikomi and agateware, which In 2019 were named by heritage crafts UK, as endangered crafts. This means that there are very few people who practice these crafts and are in danger of becoming extinct. By automating the challenging and time consuming slicing process of nerikomi and agateware, I hope to make these viable crafts that would otherwise be too labour intensive to manufacture commercially.
