Express yourself with clay
and make your own plates, mugs and dinner sets

During this course, we’ll cover the main handbuild techniques: pinch pot, coil and slab. We’ll also cover topics such as surface decoration, joining techniques how to make spouts and handles, using hump. slump and sprig moulds as well as surface decoration, using coloured slips and underglazes. No prior experience is needed.

Beyond the first few weeks, you will choose your own projects and you will be fully supported by your tutor to bring them to completion. You’ll work at your own pace, regardless of what other classmates are doing, and at the end of the course, you’ll have something to show for it! Your tutor is always available to answer any questions you may have or help you solve any difficulties you may be having. They will provide you with useful hints and tips regardless of your level of experience to help you improve and produce better-finished pieces. This is a relaxed course with no fixed agenda although all novice and beginner students will be guided, and you can expect to learn the following for the first few weeks

The course is open to a maximum of 12 students meaning each student gets the support they need.  Each session is two hours long and all materials and tools are provided, as are refreshments.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:

• Health and safety
• Tools and equipment
• Clay types
• How to properly prepare clay for hand building
• Main handbuild techniques: pinch, coil, slab and joining techniques
• Handles. spouts and footers
• Using hump, slump and sprig moulds
• Surface decoration and texturing techniques
• Using coloured slips and underglazes
• An overview of glazing techniques and kiln firing

Please note there is a £6/kg charge by dry weight of finished items for firing and glazing of pieces.