Hand-Building & Sculpture Classes
Hand-building is a traditional way of making ceramics without using a pottery wheel. Instead, you’ll shape clay by hand using techniques such as coiling, slab building and pinching.
Our hand-building classes are suitable for beginners and mixed ability learners, we offer a relaxed, creative approach to working with clay. You can make anything from functional pieces to more sculptural, decorative forms with guidance from our tutors throughout.All materials, glazing and firings are included.
Hand-Built Vessels
Margarida Neves is a Portuguese ceramic artist inspired by organic forms and the natural qualities of clay. This weekend course runs on 4 x consecutive Saturdays you will be guided step by step and learn how to create a base, roll coils, join and mix different clays together. Shape your vessel into forms that reflect the quiet strength found in nature. All materials and firing included.
Figurative Sculpture
This course will equip you with creative and innovative techniques for sculpting and carving clay. Learn to sculpt from a solid clay, hollow out the leather-hard form, carve and sculpt the figure in a representational or abstract form. All materials are provided and included.
4 Week Course & 8 Week Course
Hand Building, Sculpture & Decorating Techniques
3 hours per session / 12 hours in total
A focused introduction to hand-building over four consecutive weeks. You’ll explore core techniques including pinching, coiling and slab building. With guidance, you’ll be encouraged to develop your own ideas while building confidence with clay. In the final week, you’ll glaze your finished work ready for firing. All materials and firing are included.
Frequently asked Questions
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If you're new to pottery, we recommend starting with a Taster Session or 4 Week Course. The 1 Week Intensive is ideal if you'd like to learn quickly, while the 8 Week Course is designed for those wanting more time to develop their throwing skills and complete larger projects.
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No. Most of our classes are suitable for complete beginners. Mixed ability courses are also suitable for returning students and improvers.
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Many beginners find hand building more approachable because it allows them to focus on shaping clay without learning wheel control. It also offers greater flexibility for creating sculptural and irregular forms. However, both techniques require practice and creativity.
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Yes. Clay, tools, glazing and firing costs are included unless otherwise stated in the course description.
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Unfortunately we are able to ship your completed pottery to you. However, please feel free to contact the studio if you have any concerns and we may be able to assist.
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Due to limited storage space, work that remains uncollected for more than one month after notification may be disposed of.
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Most work is ready approximately 3–4 weeks after your class or course has finished. We will email you when it is ready for collection.
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Not at all. Pottery takes practice, but our courses are designed to help beginners learn step by step in a relaxed and supportive environment.
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Yes, gift vouchers are available and can be used towards pottery classes, courses and private sessions.
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Refunds are offered at the studio's discretion. In some cases, we may be able to transfer your booking, change the attendee name or offer a gift card instead.
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Catch-up sessions are available during the duration of your course, subject to teacher discretion and space availability. Please contact us as soon as possible if you cannot attend.
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Pieces glazed and fired by the studio using our standard materials are suitable for functional use and dishwasher safe.
Decorative glazes are labelled as not food safe in the studio. As with all handmade ceramics, care should be taken to avoid damage or cracks.
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We require at least 48 hours notice for cancellations or rescheduling requests. Cancellations made less than 48 hours before the class may incur a cancellation fee. No-shows will be charged the full course fee.
New to pottery? We've answered some of the most common questions about our classes, courses, materials, glazing, collections and bookings. If you can't find the information you're looking for, please get in touch and we'll be happy to help.
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