Class Overview

Take your pottery skills to the next level with this 5-week advanced pottery series, designed for potters looking to refine their techniques and explore new forms. You’ll work on building more advanced skills such as making projects from multiple pieces (thrown or hand built), altering forms, carving, various surface decoration techniques, and more. The class will largely be guided by what techniques students want to learn, so come with your big ideas and let’s figure out the skills you need to make them! We’ll also talk a little bit about project planning, and understanding what is really going on with your pots and glazes, to help you avoid problems and be able to fix them as they arise.

Each week, you’ll receive personalized instruction and guidance while working through advanced techniques, with plenty of time for hands-on practice. To support skill development, students will also receive one complimentary studio access day per week outside of class to continue working on their projects.

What You’ll Learn

• Personalized instruction based on student interests—throwing large, lidded forms, carving, slip techniques, and more

• Refining wheel-throwing skills with a focus on control, form, and balance

• Surface decoration techniques including sgraffito, carving, and texture applications

• Functional and sculptural considerations for more complex designs

• Studio best practices for drying, glazing, and firing larger or more intricate pieces

What’s Included

• One complimentary open studio session per week for extra practice (does not include clay)

• M340 Clay to practice and create your own pieces

• Tools for shaping and finishing.

• Glazes for finishing your pieces

• Bisque and glaze firing of your piece.

what to bring + Personal Safety

Please bring your own apron or clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. For your own personal safety during this class, please:

• Wear closed-toe shoes

• Ensure long hair is securely tied up and out of the way

• Remove all jewelry

• Do not wear loose clothing

Prerequisites

This course is for students with some pottery experience. You should be comfortable creating an even cylinder with 1-2 pounds of clay. Both hand builders and throwers are welcome. Lessons will often be based around a thrown form, but can be adapted to suit hand building if that’s your preference.