3. Ceramics 101 with Tracy

🏛️ CERAMICS 101: SCULPTURE & GLAZING SERIES

Texture & Tools: I will teach you how to use professional clay tools to create different surface textures and sculptural effects.

Water Control: We will discuss water management. It is vital not to use too much water with White Raku clay because it contains a high amount of “grog” (ground-up, pre-fired bisque clay that helps prevent cracking).

Joining Clay Safely: The Glue (Slip): You will use “slip” (liquid clay glue) from jars provided on your table to join pieces together.

The Score & Slip Method: You will learn to scuff/score both clay surfaces, apply a small amount of slip, and wipe off the excess. We will also cover using temporary tape or supports so heavy attachments do not sag or fall off. Welcome to our comprehensive ceramics program! This unique workshop is split into two distinct parts over a four-week cycle. You will learn the entire journey of clay—from raw sculpting to the final glossy firing.

Total Duration: 2 x 3-hour sessions (Week 1 and Week 2)

The Schedule: You will sculpt your pieces in your first workshop, wait two weeks for drying and bisque firing, and return on the third Saturday for your glazing session.

Collection: Your finished, glazed pieces will be ready for pickup in the church hall at the end of the 4-week cycle at 5:00 PM.

🧱 Part A: Ceramics 101 Clay Sculpture (Workshop 1)

Your journey begins at the sculpting table. We start the class by reviewing and signing a standard safety sheet and disclaimer before diving hands-on into the clay.

1. Understanding Your Materials & Space

1.The Clays: We will discuss and work with high-quality Raku Clay (White and Red) and JB3 Fine Clay. The difference between the two clays, pros and cons.

2.Your Firing Space: You will be given a designated rectangular firing space on your individual building board. All items you design must fit inside this template area. Our kiln is 30x30cm square.

3.Clay Recycling: You will receive a generous portion of clay to play with and sculpt. To keep our studio sustainable, all leftovers must go into the labelled scrap containers (“White Raku”, “Red Raku”, or “JB3”) for future recycling.

2. Mastering the Techniques Preparation: You will learn how to properly cut clay using a clay wire, followed by the essential processes of bashing and rolling clay slabs.

3.Sculpting Methods: Using our provided photocopy instruction guides and exact size gauges, you will be guided through various classic techniques. Some students will cut out flat pieces (similar to a dressmaking pattern), others will press clay. Or coil method or pinching pot method.

·        Texture & Tools: I will teach you how to use professional clay tools to create different surface textures and sculptural effects.

·        Water Control: We will discuss water management. It is vital not to use too much water with White Raku clay because it contains a high amount of "grog" (ground-up, pre-fired bisque clay that helps prevent cracking).

3. Joining Clay Safely

·        The Glue (Slip): You will use "slip" (liquid clay glue) from jars provided on your table to join pieces together.

·        The Score & Slip Method: You will learn to scuff/score both clay surfaces, apply a small amount of slip, and wipe off the excess. We will also cover using temporary tape or supports so heavy attachments do not sag or fall off.

·        Air Holes & Safety: You will be taught how to build proper air holes and manage drying times so your beautiful work does not crack or accidentally explode inside the kiln during firing.

4. Wrapping Up Session 1

·        Signing Your Work: Every student will use a pointy tool called a scriber to scratch their initials or name onto the bottom of their pieces.

·        Safe Storage: We will safely box your items. They will sit in storage to dry slowly for 2 weeks before undergoing their first "Bisque" firing.

Any extra work needing to be done can be arranged at a later date on your piece’s.