Clay Basics + more: handbuilding and surface decoration for beginners and continuing students (8 week class)

Join artist Bella Taylor for a hands-on exploration of clay and creativity. Whether you're a complete beginner or have some experience, this class offers a supportive environment to develop your skills and discover your personal style.

You’ll learn a wide range of techniques including hand-building, sculpting, jewellery making, and creating functional ware. Bella will also guide you through the fascinating world of glazes and firing methods, giving you a solid foundation in ceramic practices.

For continuing or more experienced students, Bella provides personalized support to help you get the most from your class

Tickets: Members $385, non-members $415

Material fees: Clay for sale at an extra cost. Firing at an extra cost calculated by weight.

Class size: 7 students

Class starts: Tuesday 15 Oct

Class ends: Tuesday 10th Dec

Class structure: 8 weeks, every Tuesday 2pm-5pm

Level: designed for beginner to intermediate levels

Wear: comfortable work clothes and enclosed shoes

Please bring: A basic pottery tool kit

Syllabus for 8 weeks term:

Week 1

- Introduction to clay, clay types and stages of making.

- Starting tool pack will be available and choice of 2 different earthen clays, a white or a terracotta red. 

- Making a pinch pot and a small sculpture.

- Using Kurinuki techniques to make organic bowls.

Week 2

- Introduction to joining clay and adding attachments.

- Making a coiled pot with handles or springs and bigger sculptures with coils. 

Week 3 & 4

- Introduction to slab making with texturing & slips with carving.

- Exploring sgraffito techniques.

- Making plates & vases. 

Week 6 & 7 & 8

- Introduction to glazes and underglaze colours. We are firing to Earthenware temperature (cone 06 1150deg).

- Understanding glazing overlays to create flowing decoration.

- Finishing work with colours  and glazes.