Learn the basics of wheel throwing or expand your current skills

This dynamic, mixed-level wheel-throwing course is designed to cater for beginners or those with a little experience. Our expert tutors bring enthusiasm and skill to every session and create a fun and relaxed environment. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your craft, our friendly and inclusive atmosphere fosters creativity on our brand-new Shimpo wheels.
Join us to enhance your techniques, explore new forms, and connect with a supportive community of fellow ceramic artists!
By the end, you will get to take home 4-6 pieces of beautiful ceramics you have made yourselves! Some of these will be available for collection a few weeks after the course finishes after firing.
Week 1: Introduction and Skill AssessmentObjective: Assess skill levels and establish a foundation for both beginners and intermediates.Activities:
- Introduction to Studio: Overview of equipment, safety, and studio procedures.
- Skill Assessment: Individual demonstrations by students to gauge their current level.
- Basic Techniques for Beginners: Centering, opening, and pulling up walls.
- Advanced Techniques for Intermediates: Review of advanced centering and throwing larger forms.
- Guided Practise: Beginners focus on basic techniques; intermediates practise larger forms or complex shapes.
Week 2: Form BuildingObjective: Develop form-building skills for both beginners and intermediates.Activities:
- Form Building: Beginners create basic bowls and cylinders; intermediates explore advanced shapes (e.g., vases).
- Guided Practise: Focus on form-building techniques, with individualised support based on skill level.
- Discussion: Tips on achieving consistent form and wall thickness.
Week 3: Surface Decoration and TextureObjective: Explore surface decoration techniques and texturing.Activities:
- Surface Decoration: Introduction to techniques such as slip trailing, sgraffito, and carving.
- Texture Creation: Experiment with adding textures using different tools and materials.
- Guided Practise: Beginners apply basic decoration techniques; intermediates explore more intricate designs and textures.
- Discussion: How surface decoration enhances form and function.
Week 4: Advanced Throwing TechniquesObjective: Refine throwing skills and explore advanced forms.Activities:
- Throwing Techniques: Demonstration of advanced throwing techniques such as throwing larger or more complex shapes.
- Guided Practise: Beginners refine their throwing techniques; intermediates explore advanced forms and larger pieces.
- Project Work: Focus on creating new pieces or improving existing ones based on skill level.
Week 5: Trimming, Surface Decoration & TextureObjective: Focus on trimming and applying surface decoration techniques.Activities:
- Trimming Techniques: Refine trimming skills, focusing on achieving a clean finish and functional base.
- Surface Decoration: Apply previously learned decoration techniques to finished forms.
- Guided Practise: Beginners trim and decorate their pieces; intermediates apply advanced trimming and decoration.
- Discussion: Tips on integrating decoration with form and function.
Week 6: Glazing and Final ProjectsObjective: Finish projects with glazing techniques and review course progress.Activities:
- Glazing Techniques: Demonstration of basic and advanced glazing techniques, including layering and resist methods.
- Guided Glazing: Apply glazes to final projects with instructor assistance, focusing on achieving desired effects.
- Final Project Completion: Finalise and prepare projects for firing.
- Wrap-Up and Critique: Group critique and discussion of completed pieces, focusing on technique and artistic growth.
- Celebration: Showcase of student work and a small gathering to celebrate achievements.
This course ensures that both beginners and intermediate students receive targeted instruction and support throughout the course.
Monday evenings 6pm to 8.30pm
Check dates and bookings on right
Wear clothes that you don’t mind getting a little dirty and covered shoes