Giffin Grip

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Overview

Giffin Grip is a brand specializing in pottery trimming tools, primarily known for its quick-release centering devices that attach to potters' wheels to hold and center clay pieces during trimming. Produced by Giffin Tec Inc., a family-run business, it occupies a niche in the ceramics equipment market, valued for reducing trimming time in studio and production pottery settings.¹³⁴⁶

History

Giffin Tec Inc. was founded in 1978 by Brian Giffin, a production potter who invented the Giffin Grip in the early 1970s while studying ceramics at the University of Northern Colorado to improve his efficiency. He left school to develop the invention, which became widely adopted in pottery. The company remains family-operated, with Zack Giffin serving as General Manager involved in all business aspects.³⁶⁷

Product Lines

Product Line	Positioning	Price Range
Giffin Grip Model 10 (standard wheel grip)	Centering tool for standard potters wheels	$259
Giffin Grip Mini (compact grip)	Centering tool for smaller wheels	$208
Jumbo Platter Extender (large platter support)	Accessory for oversized platters	$129
Trim Guard (trimming shield)	Protective guard for trimming	$50
Lid Master (lid forming tool)	Tool for pottery lids	$18 - $30
Flex Sliders (wheel accessories)	Sliders for wheel adjustments	$40

Manufacturing

Products are manufactured by Giffin Tec Inc., a family-run business based in Lummi Island, Washington, United States. Specific details on in-house versus outsourced production are not specified, but the company handles operations from this location.¹²³

Notable Products

Giffin Grip Model 10 - Primary quick-snap centering device for potters wheels that holds pots securely during trimming.
Giffin Grip Mini - Compact version of the grip for smaller wheels.
Jumbo Platter Extender - Extender for handling large platters on wheels.
Trim Guard - Guard to contain trimmings during pottery trimming.
Lid Master - Tool for forming consistent pottery lids.

Reputation

Giffin Grip is regarded by potters as a reliable, time-saving essential for trimming, with strong recognition in ceramics communities for its durability and ease of use. Professionals and enthusiasts praise its innovation from a potter's perspective, though its niche focus limits broader awareness. No significant criticisms noted in available sources.³⁴

Sources (8)