Handbuilding classes
Our handbuilding classes offer a relaxed, creative introduction to working with clay by hand, using simple techniques to create functional, decorative, and sculptural pieces.
Choose between a 4-week introductory session or a more in-depth 8-week session. Both classes include demonstrations, guided instruction, and time to practise at your own pace.
Classes are limited to 8 students so everyone has access to the equipment, space to work, and individual attention from the instructor.
4-week handbuilding class
Our 4-week class is a focused introduction to the fundamentals of handbuilding.
Over four weeks, you will learn three core ways of building with clay by hand: pinch pots, coil building, and slab building, before glazing your finished pieces.
Weekly class outline
Week 1 - Pinch Pots
Learn the basics of shaping clay by hand while creating simple pinch forms and exploring form, thickness, and surface.
Week 2 - Coil Building
Learn how to build with coils to create vessels, larger forms, and sculptural shapes.
Week 3 - Slab Building
Use rolled clay slabs to create structured forms while learning how to cut, join, and refine clay surfaces.
Week 4 - Glazing
Prepare and glaze your bisque-fired pieces while learning how glaze affects colour, surface, and finish.
The 4-week session is ideal for beginners who want to explore handbuilding or anyone looking for a shorter introduction to working with clay.
8-week handbuilding class
Our 8-week class gives you more time to explore handbuilding techniques, experiment with surfaces and decoration, and develop your own projects.
You will learn how to make pinch pots, coil-built forms, slab-built pieces, stamps, textures, and decorated surfaces while developing your own creative ideas throughout the session.
What you will learn
Over the 8-week session, you will be introduced to foundational and more advanced handbuilding techniques, including:
Pinching and shaping clay by hand
Creating stamps and surface textures
Building with coils
Working with slabs
Using slip, carving, and decorative techniques
Glazing your finished pieces
Developing independent projects from idea to finished work
This class is hands-on, beginner-friendly, and designed to help you feel comfortable experimenting with clay in a supportive studio environment.
Weekly class outline
Week 1 - Pinch Pots and Stamp Making
Learn the basics of shaping clay by hand while creating simple pinch forms and custom stamps for texture and decoration.
Week 2 - Coil Pots
Explore coil-building techniques to create larger forms, vessels, and sculptural shapes.
Week 3 - Slip and Carving
Learn how to decorate surfaces using slip, carving, texture, and mark-making.
Week 4 - Glazing
Prepare and glaze your bisque-fired pieces while learning how glaze affects colour, surface, and finish.
Week 5 - Slab Building
Use rolled clay slabs to build forms with structure, shape, and clean surfaces.
Week 6 - Independent Projects
Begin developing your own project with guidance from the instructor.
Week 7 - Independent Projects
Continue building, refining, and finishing your independent work.
Week 8 - Glazing
Glaze your remaining pieces and complete your session.
What is included
Your registration includes:
5 kg of clay
Weekly classes for the duration of your session
Instruction and demonstrations each week
Use of studio tools and equipment during class
All glazes
All firings
Individual guidance from your instructor
Additional clay can be purchased in 5 kg blocks for $20 per block.
Class size
Each class is limited to 8 students. This keeps the class small, focused, and supportive, with enough time for questions, guidance, and individual attention.
Make-up classes
Make-up classes may be possible if there is space available in another class.
If there is no space in another class, a make-up class may be arranged during the final class of another session for glazing only.
Cancellation policy
All classes are non-refundable.
Please make sure you are able to attend the session before registering.
Who these classes are for
Both the 4-week and 8-week classes are suitable for complete beginners, and no previous pottery experience is required.
The 4-week class is a great introduction if you want to explore the fundamentals of handbuilding.
The 8-week class gives you more time to experiment with techniques, develop your own ideas, and work on more involved projects.
Handbuilding is a great option if you want a slower, more flexible way to work with clay. Come ready to experiment, build with your hands, and create pieces that feel personal and expressive.
