what to expect
Our wheel throwing course offers a focused introduction to working on the potter’s wheel using high-quality stoneware clay. Whether you are completely new to ceramics or looking to refine existing skills, the course is designed to provide both technical understanding and hands-on practice in a supportive studio environment. Wheel throwing is a process that requires patience, coordination, and repetition. During the session, you will be guided step by step through the core techniques that form the foundation of functional ceramics.
Drop-in class
The drop-in session is ideal for beginners or those wanting to try wheel throwing without committing to a longer course. You will receive an introduction to:
Preparing and centering clay on the wheel. Controlling speed and pressure. Pulling walls and shaping a simple form.
With guidance, you will complete a vessel suitable for a mug or bowl.
Because trimming requires the piece to dry to a leather-hard stage, we will trim and finish your work for you after the session. If you would like to learn trimming yourself, you are welcome to book a second session for this stage of the process.
4-week course
This course is structured to build strong foundational skills at the wheel. Each class develops specific techniques, giving you a clear understanding of process, control, and form. Here’s what a 4-week course might look like, if you join us as a beginner.
Class 1 – Preparing the Clay & Centering
Introduction to wedging, clay preparation, posture, and hand positioning. The main focus is learning to center the clay and build stability and control.
Class 2 – Pulling Even Walls & Shape Control
You will practice pulling walls with even pressure and improving consistency in thickness. We also work on throwing cylinders and discuss how to best utilise the clay.
Class 3 – The Cylinder & Thickness Mastery
Refining the cylinder as a foundational form. Focus on height, straight walls, rim compression, and maintaining consistent thickness throughout the piece. Once we can throw consistent cylinders, we will move on to throwing bowls or wider pieces.
Class 4 – Trimming & Bowl Forms
Introduction to trimming leather-hard pieces and refining foot rings. If time allows, we will also practice throwing bowls, focusing on controlled curves and form or you may glaze the pieces that have been bisque fired from previous weeks.
Participants with previous experience will receive individualized guidance and projects tailored to their skill level, allowing for continued development and refinement of technique. If you have already completed a 4-week course and would like to continue, we will adjust the classes or projects to fit and improve your skill level.
Trimming & Glazing Timeline
Due to drying and firing schedules, it may not be possible to trim or glaze all pieces within the 4-week period. Work made during Classes 3 and 4 may not be bisque fired in time.
You are welcome to book additional drop-in sessions or studio time to complete these pieces yourself. Alternatively, studio staff can glaze them using one of our standard studio glazes.
Materials & Practical Information
We work exclusively with durable stoneware clay.
All materials, glazing, and firings are included.
Pieces up to 27 cm in height or width are included in the course fee.
Larger works are charged at 10 kr per additional centimeter.
After bisque firing, pieces can be finished with one of our studio glazes, or you may glaze them yourself under guidance (depending on your course format).
Coffee and tea are available during all sessions.
Finished pieces are typically ready for pickup after 3–4 weeks.
