6 Week Hand Building Course
Levels
0 & 1
Join our 6 week hand building and decoration course for an exciting journey into the world of pottery! Each session lasts for 2.5 hours and is limited to just 10 students, ensuring plenty of personalised guidance and support throughout your experience. (16yrs+only)
Workshop Description
Throughout the course, you'll explore a variety of techniques, including pinch pots, slab building, coil construction, and creating textures. You'll also learn about sgraffito, glazing, and using slip to enhance your pieces. Practical, hands-on activities will allow you to develop your skills in hand building pottery, all while fostering your creativity.
The course includes:
Studio set-up & safety: Learn how to safely navigate the pottery studio.
Clay, tools, and equipment: Gain an understanding of the materials you’ll be working with.
Basic hand building techniques: Get comfortable creating unique forms using various methods.
Glazing: Discover the fundamentals of glazing to bring your pieces to life.
Show and tell evening: Conclude the course by showcasing your work and enjoying refreshments with fellow students!
Each 2.5hr session includes 15-20 minutes clean up which is crucial in the pottery world. It ensures students and team members can work in a safe and healthy studio)
If you finish earlier than expected you are welcome to continue working and using the space
Any pots that are kept will be charged at a rate of 10£ per kilo of work (weighed at pick up)
Your completed pieces will be ready for collection within 5-6 weeks, depending on the weather!
You can view our terms of service here.
Course Outline
Our 6 week Handbuilding & Decorating Course is designed to guide you through a comprehensive exploration of ceramic handbuilding techniques and surface decoration:
Weeks 1-2: Foundations of Hand building
Learn basic handbuilding techniques such as pinch, coil, and slab building. Explore form creation, incorporating surface textures, and basic decorating methods.
Weeks 3-4: Advanced Techniques & Functional Forms
Develop skills in creating more complex shapes, adding details, and combining forms. Experiment with surface decoration techniques including carving, stamping, and slip decorating.
Weeks 5-6: Personal Projects & Finishing
Design and create your own project using the techniques learned. Focus on finishing, glazing, and decorating to personalize your pieces. Receive individual guidance to complete your work.
Sessions are 2.5 hours each (some may be shorter depending on progress, but you’re welcome to continue using the space if this occurs. We always finish with at least 20 minutes for cleaning).
You can view our terms of service here.
Cost
Evening & Weekend Courses: £250 per person for 4 sessions (inc VAT)
Any pots that are kept & fired will be charged at a rate of 10£ per kilo of work (weighed at pick up)
We also have a Pay It Forward scheme to help make our courses accessible to everyone. If you're able to support this initiative, please consider making a donation via the TIP option at checkout, which helps us provide discounted spots.
We offer one subsidised spot per course at a 20% discount. To apply, please visit our pricing options page.
You can view our refund & rescheduling policy here.