Introduction to Pinch Pots + Soft Slabs

You will learn

Formerly advertised as Introduction to Pottery, this course focuses on the different ways to hand-build with clay.

From pinch pots to slab-building, you will learn and combine techniques, to create a range of functional pieces. You will be encouraged to interpret each project in your own style, applying surface decoration and colour to make each piece uniquely yours.

Techniques covered include:

Wedging and preparing clay
Joining clay
Creating pinch pots
Working with soft slabs
Using decorative underglazes, slips and oxides

You will need

This session is perfect for complete beginners and those who have attended any of our other taster or introductory courses.

We recommend trimming long nails prior to the session, removing any jewellery, and tying back long hair.

Additional information

This pottery course takes place over 6 consecutive weeks starting on your booked date.

Sessions take place on Friday mornings, 10am – 12.30pm.

The course cost includes all materials tools and clay, plus glazing and firing of your finished pieces.

When attending this event, please drive directly to The Harley Studios. See the map below for directions.

The Harley Pottery Studio

The Harley Foundation is an arts charity which works to create spaces where the imagination can flourish, from artists studios to an award-winning museum.

We run The Harley Pottery Studio, a community space where visitors can work in inspiring surroundings – in an idyllic countryside location and surrounded by practicing artists and makers.

All of our classes are subsidised by the Foundation and generously supported by Nottinghamshire County Council. We work to offer an accessible, affordable place to practice pottery making.

Tutor Profile: Ruth Waller

Our Friday morning courses are taught by Ruth Waller.

Ruth is a contemporary textile artist and half of the creative partnership Waller Hewett. Waller Hewett create artwork and installations which combine art, design and craft, and have won them numerous awards including ‘Best in Show’ at the London Craft Fair.

She is also a highly experienced tutor and teaches across the Harley Foundation’s education programme.

Image courtesy Ben Boswell