Ceramics – Handbuilding, Coiling and Pinching – traditional techniques

About this course

Participants learn to form ceramic pieces by hand using coiling and pinching, then explore surface decoration with underglazes, oxides and slips. The course also introduces earthenware and stoneware glazes, including their application, alongside examples from ceramic history from antiquity to the present day. Teaching combines practical studio activity with tutor feedback, Personal Learning Plans and discussions about progress. Learners document their work and consider details such as clay types, decorative methods, glaze choices and firing temperatures.

What you'll learn

• Apply coiling and pinching methods to construct handbuilt ceramic forms.
• Use underglazes, oxides and slips to develop decorated surfaces.
• Apply earthenware and stoneware glazes to ceramic work.
• Identify connections between ceramic objects and their historical development.
• Record details of ceramic pieces, including materials, decoration, glazes and firing temperatures.

Is this course right for you?

The course is suitable for complete beginners as well as experienced ceramicists, with learners developing their work through individual projects, tutor feedback and Personal Learning Plans. It is intended for learners aged 19 and over.

• Suitable for learners starting out in ceramics.
• Experienced ceramicists can also take part.
• Progress is discussed through Personal Learning Plans and written feedback.
• Learners are encouraged to keep written or digital records of their work.

Before you go

• Clay must be purchased from the College Shop. Slip, glazes and kiln firings are included in the clay cost.
• A range of clay types is available, with the tutor advising on suitability for each project.
• An FFP3 mask is required for glazing activities and can be purchased from the technicians' office.
• Ceramic tools are provided.
• Finished pieces can be collected after drying and firing.
• Learners should allow time at the end of each class for tidying the studio.