As a keen mudman I am anxious to try clay for indoor fun. I have a couple of potteries close by where I could get materials or a lead as to where to go. But I know absolutely nothing about pottery and would be embarrassed to be quizzed about my needs. What sort of clay should I ask for? And, if asked, what's a credible thing to say I need it for?

When you ask for clay, you may want to ask for dry clay like OM4, which is used to make "grog". Here in the United States, most dry clay is either from Tennessee or Kentucky which is white clay. The red clay comes from Georgia. Look at the clay providers dry clay list. You should be able to tell which one is best for you.

I always ask for Kaolin or Tennesse ball clay, and if they ask what I need it for I say "I'm working on a project".

A cheap, less suspicious alternative is joint compound. Just be sure to get the non toxic stuff. Some of it has asbestos!