Ideal for beginners as well as the intermediate potter.

During this 10 week course, you will be shown how to create using a variety of making methods including; slab building, coiling, pinching and throwing. You will also explore texture and colour through a variety of different ceramic surface decoration methods. This course is ideal for beginners as well as those with a little more experience. Beginners will be taken through a structured journey of exploration while those with a little more experience are encouraged to develop more autonomous design ideas to build on current making skills.

During this course you will:

Week 1 Be given a full induction into The Pottery. You will have an introduction into using slabs of clay to explore shape, texture, colour and possibilities. (You will have the opportunity to make about 3-4 items as well as test pieces to help you explore glazes in week 2)

Weeks 2 and 3– Taking slabs to the next level you will be taught how to use a template to enable you to build a tall 3D structure using slabs. (this can be either functional or purely abstract and should stand about 30cm tall). You will also be given an introduction into using glazes.

Week 4 – You will be taught the art of pinching and coiling (you will have the opportunity to start a large coil vessel). There will be time to complete your slab work (if needed) and/or develop existing work.

Week 5 and 6 – introduction to the wheel. You will be taught the art of centering and forming on the potter’s wheel. (you will be have the opportunity to keep your favourite 3 pieces).  You will also be shown how to wedge clay and recycle clay. Please note that this course only touches on throwing. For a more in-depth throwing course please refer to my 6 week Throwing course.

Week 6 and 7 – introduction to turning your pots, creating handles, spouts and feet. You will also glaze all work completed to date.

Week 7,8 and 9 – you will be encouraged to develop a personal project that will allow you to build on existing skills. During these weeks, you will work more independently to develop skills already learnt.

Week 10 – glazing all work.

All work will be fired and ready for collection within 2 weeks of the completion of the course.

Start date: Monday 15th April

Time: 5.45 till 8.45

Cost £350 Includes all oxides, glazes, slips, colours, firings as well as clay up to 7kg, but don’t worry if you like to make lots or very large items. The Pottery will make a small charge to help contribute towards the firing and glazing costs for anything over 7kg.

For beginners, this program has been designed to enable each participant to create about 11 pieces ranging from small to large without exceeding 7kg.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS - Please read before booking

• Unfortunately in the current climate I will be unable to offer a refund if you change your mind so please do not book unless you are sure that you can attend all sessions. However if you change your mind for any reason you can gift the whole course to a third party as long as they have pottery experience.