Introduction to Throwing on the Potter’s Wheel

About this course

The course introduces the main stages of throwing on a potter’s wheel, from wedging and centring clay to opening, pulling up and controlling a form. Participants practise making cylinders and develop thrown forms with foot rings and handles. Teaching combines tutor demonstrations with individual and group guidance, supported by examples, handouts and other learning resources. Activities accommodate both left- and right-handed wheel placement, and learners work alongside others with different levels of experience.

What you'll learn

• Prepare clay using wedging techniques.
• Control hand placement while centring, opening and pulling up clay on the wheel.
• Form cylinders suitable for developing mugs, jugs and bowls.
• Finish thrown work with a foot ring using turning techniques.
• Make handles and attach them to a thrown form.
• Apply safe studio practices and recognise health and safety issues in ceramics.

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for beginners and explicitly welcomes learners with no previous knowledge of ceramics. New and returning students work together, with group and individual demonstrations available. Regular attendance across all sessions is expected.

• Suitable for complete beginners.
• Learners with more experience may request individual or group demonstrations.
• Activities include adaptations for left- and right-handed wheel placement.

Before you go

• Bring an apron or old shirt and closed-toe shoes.
• Bring a pen and notebook.
• Personal clay tools may be brought, although studio tools are available; beginner tool packs can also be purchased.
• Completed work is fired to bisque and glaze.
• The ceramics studio is on the third floor, with lift access.