While porcelain remains the star of ceramic sculptures, artists rely on several supporting materials to achieve durability and aesthetic brilliance. High-quality kaolin clay often forms the sculpture's structural base, prized for its plasticity and heat resistance. Stoneware clays are frequently blended for added strength in large pieces. Mineral-rich glazes—composed of silica, fluxes, and metal oxides—create vibrant surfaces and waterproof finishes.

Many sculptors incorporate grog (pre-fired crushed clay) to reduce shrinkage during kiln firing. Modern creators sometimes mix porcelain with paper fibers for lightweight installations. The firing process itself utilizes kiln furniture like stilts and shelves made from refractory materials to support delicate pieces. These complementary materials work in harmony with porcelain to transform fragile clay into enduring artworks.