Let’s start a list: where are great places in the region to buy materials? They could be lumber, metal, fabric, electronics, whatever - as long as they’re in our region (no online only places)
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For pottery glazes and tools I’ve been going to Minneapolis to purchase at Continental Clay most schools and pottery centers get their clay here
I’ve recently heard that Minnesota Clay has much more available when it comes to tools and equipment. I’m going there this week to check it out.
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For odd stuff and inspirational junk I love the University of MN ReUse warehouse. Worth a trip to see some interesting stuff the labs and facilities are getting rid of.
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For lumber:
Berger Hardwoods LLC
307 Emery St, Fairchild, WI 54741
They deliver to this region every week.
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Another lumber source, with an emphasis on less common or more exotic species:
Ocooch Hardwoods
14860 County Hwy E
Viola, WI 54664
Mon through Fri: 8:00am - 5:00pm CST
Email: ocoochhardwoods@gmail.com
Phone: (608) 466 6470
Toll Free: 888-322-2432
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Great tips, thank you @AaronGesicki @aekstrom and @CommunityPotter ! Anyone else want to weigh in for where they get metal?
There’s an odd assortment of plate, sheet, and threaded rod at 7 Rivers Surplus in Hokah. There are some structural shapes too (perforated square tubing, Unistrut) but the selection is sparse. The south side of the east outbuilding holds most of what they have. Their fastener selection is very good and is in the main building.
I forgot about 7 Rivers Surplus, that place is kinda wild! I’ve found some great emergency stop buttons over the years there.
Did you ever make it out to Minnesota Clay? I’m curious your thoughts!
I did! And I apologize for the delay in responding. I wanted to wait to bring my tools home and take a picture to attach.
I spent way too much time there, but restrained myself from over buying!! It was fun just to look at everything. There were so many cool ribs (used to shape clay) and I ended up buying one very small wood rib and a small metal rib for fine detailing work and a large wood rib for plates or platters. I also replaced some old trimming tools and bought a few hole punches (for making holes in garlic jars, berry bowls and colanders) and a spinner with an integrated bubble level in it.
They also had a LOT of glazes but did not have the time to check those out on this visit maybe in the future
Picture had a mix of old and new tools and does not reflect all the tools I own
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