what to expect
Our handbuilding classes offer a structured introduction to working with clay without the use of a wheel. Suitable for beginners as well as those with prior experience, the courses focus on technique, craftsmanship, and material understanding.
We work exclusively with high-quality stoneware clay in a focused and supportive studio environment. Tea and coffee are included in all of our classes.
Drop-In Class (2.5 Hours)
The drop-in session provides a practical introduction to hand building, with a primary focus on the pinch technique.
You will learn:
- Preparing and handling stoneware clay
- Building form through controlled pinching
- Refining surfaces, edges, and details
With guidance, you will complete one functional or decorative piece. You are welcome to arrive with an idea, though beginners may be guided toward a project suited to their experience level and the timeframe.
If you have prior experience, you are not required to follow a specific exercise. We are happy to support you in developing a project of your choice within the session’s time and material limits.
Glazing Options
Underglazes are available during the session and can be applied directly to your freshly made piece.If you would like access to a wider range of glaze finishes, you are welcome to:Book an additional drop-in session to glaze your workBook studio time (available to those with prior glazing experience)Alternatively, studio staff can glaze your piece using one of our standard studio glazes.
Pieces will be ready for pick up 3-4 weeks after your drop in class.
4-Week Course
The 4-week course provides a thorough introduction to the three primary hand building techniques. Each session builds progressively, giving you both technical foundation and creative flexibility.
Week 1 – Pinch Technique
Introduction to clay preparation and pinch construction. Focus on form, thickness control, and structural stability.
Week 2 – Coil Building
Building height and volume using coil construction. Emphasis on compression, joining techniques, blending seams, and shaping more complex forms.
Week 3 – Slab Building
Working with rolled slabs to construct structured or geometric pieces. Focus on precision, reinforcement, and preventing cracking or warping.
Week 4 – Developing & Glazing
Having covered the three main hand building techniques, you may continue with your preferred method or combine techniques in a single project.
If available, you may glaze bisque-fired pieces from previous weeks during this session.
Participants with prior experience are not bound to a fixed curriculum.
Once familiar with the techniques, you are welcome to develop independent projects, and we will provide guidance appropriate to your level and goals.
Firing & Glazing Timeline
Due to drying and firing schedules, it is not always possible for all pieces created during the course to be bisque fired and glazed within the 4-week period. Work made in Weeks 3 and 4 may not be ready in time.
You are welcome to book additional drop-in sessions or studio time to complete glazing yourself. Alternatively, studio staff can finish and glaze pieces using one of our standard studio glazes.
