Pottery for Beginners F26

Meeting Times

• Tuesday 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Description

In-person class at Fox Chapel Area High School.

NEW! Beginner friendly, no experience needed!

Have you always wanted to try working with clay but weren't sure where to begin? This se

ries was designed for you!

Join professional potter Karen McKee for an eight-week introduction to two of the most popular ways to create with clay. Spend five weeks exploring hand-building techniques, followed by three weeks receiving an introduction to wheel throwing. The goal is to give aspiring potters a chance to discover which method they enjoy and want to explore further. 

Using stoneware clay—a durable, higher-fired clay that is microwave, dishwasher and oven safe—you'll learn the fundamentals of creating functional pottery. All pieces will be fired to cone 6 for lasting, functional pieces you can enjoy every day. 

During the hand-building portion of the class, Karen will demonstrate a variety of techniques, including:

• Preparing and working with slabs
• Slipping and scoring to join pieces of clay securely
• Applying texture
• Exploring decorating options
• Glazing techniques

During the final three weeks, you'll get a taste of wheel throwing. Learning to center clay, open the clay, and pull up a wall on the wheel takes practice, practice, practice—and more practice! Plan to spend most of your wheel time practicing techniques rather than creating finished pieces. 

With regular attendance, you can expect to make a hand-built mug, a hand-built platter and one small bowl thrown on the wheel. 

Group demonstrations and lessons begin promptly at 6 p.m., followed by individualized guided practice. Attendance at the first class is mandatory, as important introductory techniques and information will be covered.

Class fee includes clay, glazes and all firings to create the projects mentioned above.

Class size limited to allow for individual attention.

Class-Specific Notes

Class fee includes clay, glazes and all firings to create the projects mentioned above.

Students must purchase clay tools to work with during this class. Needed tools are a wood rib, metal scraper, sponge, clean-up tool, trimming tools, needle tool and cutoff wire. Many manufacturers sell these  items as an 8-piece clay tool kit.

• You will get messy so dress accordingly.
• Short nails are best to avoid gouging your clay.