Wheel Throwing 101 – 6 Week Course @ The Clay Den

Have you always wanted to get down and dirty and learn how to throw on the wheel for real?! Join us for this 6 week intensive wheel throwing clay class. In this is class you will learn the beginnings of throwing and trimming stoneware pottery. Each week builds upon the last, allowing you to progressively refine your skills. This workshop is designed for beginners or potters who want to improve their throwing skills.

Thursdays 6:30-9:00 starting November 7th 2024 and running through December 19th (The week of Thanksgiving 11/28 there will be no class)

What’s included:

• 1 25 lb bag of clay
• All necessary tools and materials
• Glaze and firing services for your finished pieces

***If you need more clay through the course, additional bags of clay will be available for purchase.***

What to expect:

• Learn the basics of wheel throwing
• Make basic shapes like bowls and cylinders to make a variety of pieces
• Learn to trim your pieces to give that finishing touch
• Learn how to clean and care for studio equipment
• Learn how to reclaim your own clay

Syllabus:

1. Session 1: Wedging, Centering and Cylinders: In the first session, we’ll focus on preparing the clay through wedging, learning to center on the wheel, and forming basic cylinder shapes, the building blocks for many pottery forms.
2. Session 2: Cups and Wheel Exercises: Building on the first session, you’ll explore forming cups, while continuing to practice wheel techniques, improving your control and confidence.
3. Session 3: Bowls: This week, we’ll dive into creating bowls, learning how to shape and refine this popular pottery form with attention to even walls and smooth curves.
4. Session 4: Last Day of Wet Clay: Our final session working with wet clay will allow you to complete your remaining pieces. You can revisit any previous forms or try something new before moving to the next stage.
5. Session 5: Trimming and Attachments: In this session, we’ll focus on trimming your pieces to refine their shapes and add attachments like handles or feet, enhancing both form and function.
6. Session 6: Glazing: Now that your pieces are bisque-fired, it’s time to add color and life through glazing! You’ll learn various glazing techniques to bring out the best in your work.