Handbuilding & Experimental Ceramics – Six Week Workshop

Over this 6-week Handbuilding & Experimental Ceramics course, you’ll explore a range of experimental approaches to working with clay. Each week we’ll build on core handbuilding techniques with a focus on texture, surface and playful experimentation.

Together we’ll explore how to include combustible materials into your clay forms (such as lentils and fibres), create sprigs (low relief motifs to add to the surfaces of your forms), make your own textures using slabs of clay and work with porcelain paperclay slip for dipping and ‘burn-out’ effects.

In week 5 you’ll get an introduction to the world of making and adjusting glaze recipes. In the final session, we’ll look at installation and display, giving you space to think about how your pieces can come together as a small playful arrangement or installation.

Who is the workshop for?
This workshop is ideal for anyone with some previous experience working with clay – though that experience can be minimal. If you’re unsure whether it’s the right fit, feel free to get in touch.

What will I learn?
Below is a breakdown of the classes week by week, but the main aim is to have a playful and experimental approach to working with clay and safely learning how to do this!

Course Content
Week 1 – Handbuilding Part 1 – Test tiles, texture & slabs
Week 2 – Handbuilding Part 2 – Coiling, pinching & combustible materials
Week 3 – Handbuilding Part 3 – Coiling continued & sprigs
Week 4 – Handbuilding Part 4 – Dipping/burning using porcelain paperclay slip
Week 5 – Introduction to glaze recipes
Week 6 – Installation & display of finished experiments

What is included?
All materials and firings are included in this workshop to a reasonable limit (eg if you’re making very large pieces then there will be an additional charge to cover costs). In week 5 we will be making glazes, I will provide a basic dust mask, however if you have your own filter face mask then I would recommend bringing one (or purchasing if you are going to continue making glazes in the future). There will be herbal tea & biscuits included on a tea break during the session.

Cancellation Policy
A full refund will be given with two weeks notice for the 6 week courses. Within two weeks of the course you will not be eligible for a refund unless someone can fill your spot. If you’re not able to make a session there may be an opportunity to come to the studio another time (during Casual Clay Fridays) but this will not be a fully taught session.

Studio Policy
Classes will finish 10/15 minutes before the class time stated to allow everyone time to clean up.
I aim to create a safe, inclusive and joyful space for all levels/backgrounds/experiences to enjoy working with clay. Please send me a message if you have any access needs or additional questions about the studio.

*Please note this 6 week workshop will run on Wednesday mornings over 7 weeks from 22 April to 3 June due to a one week break on 20 May.