During your first class, you'll meet your instructor, who will walk you through studio procedures and get you working with clay immediately. You'll receive 12.5 pounds of clay to start, with the option to purchase additional clay if needed for your projects.
What you will learn:
- Session 1: Introduction and pinch pot techniques to understand basic hand-building
- Session 2: Coiling techniques for building larger vessels and sculptural forms
- Session 3: Slab roller, extruder, molds, and "cookie" basics for creating structured pieces
- Session 4: Glazing techniques to finish and protect your work
The first session focuses on centering techniques and creating simple forms such as cylinders on the potter's wheel. In the second session, you'll learn trimming methods for pieces from the first session while continuing to throw additional work. During the third session, you'll build on your throwing and trimming skills. Please note: this is the final day you may throw new pieces, as any work begun after this session will not be fired.
In the fourth session, you'll learn to glaze your bisque-fired pieces. All your work should be ready for glazing by this day.
Age requirements: You must be 18 or older to register independently. Participants 14 and older may attend with an accompanying adult who is either a class member or a student.
Preparation guidelines:
- Please arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to prepare and settle in
- Wear casual, comfortable clothing and shoes you don't mind getting soiled. Clay washes out of most fabrics with regular laundering, though some glazes and materials may be more difficult to remove
- Bring an apron and a towel if you have them, for extra protection
- Keep fingernails trimmed short, as long nails interfere with wheel throwing and clay shaping, limiting your ability to work effectively
- Leave jewelry at home, including rings, watches, and bracelets, as these create hazards when working with clay
- If you have long hair, bring an elastic or hair tie to secure it away from the wheel, which is essential for safety
