Taster session

Course information

An ideal session for friends to enjoy together or as a date with a difference! This 2 hour taster session will allow you to experience how to prepare your clay for throwing and handbuilding. Wheel throwing: You will learn the steps of throwing a basic cylinder shape on the wheel to create a bowl that will be dip glazed for you to create a finished piece. The cylinder is a very important key shape that is used to make mugs, vases, jugs and even teapots!  Hand building: Explore using the coiling method to create a small textural bowl or use the slab method to make a handbuilt mug. If time permits you will be able to use stroke and coat glaze colours to develop further decoration to complete your master piece! What’s included? 2 hours of practical making and learning time followed by time to clean up and follow best H&S practice in a studio setting. Each step of the throwing and handbuilding journey will be explained as the lesson progresses and questions are welcomed! All tools, equipment, materials, and firing, as described below, are included. You will be provided with an apron, but it is advisable that you wear clothing that you don’t mind getting muddy! Please be advised that long nails or nail extensions can make wheel throwing tricky. You will be emailed when your work is ready for collection, this will be approximately 4-6 weeks after your class. With prior arrangement and payment of delivery fees work may be sent via courier or another mailing service. The firing and dying process takes time and can take longer when the weather is colder; Clay must be bone dry before going in the kiln for its bisque firing to 1000 degrees and then time is taken to glaze your piece before its final firing to 1220 degrees. Each firing takes 24hrs in total before the kiln can be opened. Where can it take you? With further lessons, you can go on to develop your throwing and building skills; developing more complex vessel shapes and also learn how to turn and finish the bases of your pots. If desired, you can even explore how to incorporate decoration and glaze to further enhance your pieces! Minimum participant age 16 years old. Please read the terms and conditions by following the link at the bottom of this page before booking.