Intensive throwing week: improvers

About this course

The course develops wheel-throwing technique through clay preparation and reclaim, centring, forming cylinders, bowls and bellied pots, and working towards more complex lidded forms. Participants can also explore scale, altered and assembled forms, or develop individual projects according to their experience. Teaching combines group and individual demonstrations with discussion and visual presentations. The course also covers attaching handles, turning foot-rings and using turning tools to refine forms, with information about modern makers, galleries and exhibitions available for further study.

What you'll learn

• Centre clay on the potter’s wheel
• Throw controlled forms including mugs, jugs and bowls
• Attach handles to thrown work
• Turn a foot-ring and use turning tools to accentuate a form
• Measure and throw a lid to fit a jar

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for beginners who already have some experience, as well as more practised students developing their throwing skills. Learners should be able to follow written and verbal instructions, demonstrations and health and safety information, use simple measurements and calculations, and take part in self-review and group discussion.

• Includes both group and individual demonstrations
• Learners are encouraged to evaluate and review their own work
• More experienced participants can explore scale, altered and assembled forms, or an individual project

Before you go

• A range of tools is available to use in the ceramics department.
• Closed footwear is required; sandals and flip-flops are not permitted.
• Clothing may get messy, although aprons are provided.
• Selected work can be chosen for biscuit firing, with glazing available through a separate workshop.
• The potter’s wheel motor may pose a serious risk to people with pacemakers or internal defibrillators. Those affected should contact the Ceramics Department before enrolling.