What will you be doing during one of our group workshops?
Handbuilding pottery is a traditional technique where ceramic pieces are crafted without the use of a pottery wheel. Instead, artists shape clay using their hands and simple tools. This method allows for greater creativity and individuality in each piece.
Main handbuilding techniques:
Pinch Potting: This technique involves pinching the clay into shape. The artist starts with a ball of clay and uses their fingers to create a hollow form.
Coil Building: In this method, long rolls of clay (coils) are stacked and blended together to form a vessel. The coils can be smoothed out for a seamless appearance or left textured for a more rustic look.
Slab Construction: This technique uses flat pieces (slabs) of clay that are cut and joined together. Slabs can be shaped into various forms, making it ideal for creating boxes, plates, or more complex structures.
Sculptural Techniques: Artists can also create three-dimensional sculptures or decorative pieces by assembling different forms and adding details.
Handbuilding allows for a personal touch and is accessible to beginners and experienced potters alike, fostering experimentation and artistic expression. After shaping, the pieces are typically dried, fired in a kiln, then glazed, and fired in a kiln again to finish.
Excited to begin your pottery journey?
Fill out the interest form below and take the first step toward your creative adventure!
Workshops are a wonderful way to celebrate special occasions and milestones. Gather your friends, family, or colleagues for a fun day of creating with clay. Our studio workshops accommodate up to 4 participants, but if you’re planning a larger gathering, we can discuss hosting it at a different location, such as your home. Whether it’s a retirement party, bachelorette celebration, or anything in between, we’ve got you covered and can’t wait to keep expanding our offerings.
For more details, check out the FAQs below!
FAQs
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Fill out the interest form above, and we’ll collaborate to select a date for your group. Once the date is confirmed, a 50% deposit of $50 per person is required to secure your spots. Each participant can send their deposit individually, or one person can cover the entire group. Please include "pottery workshop deposit - DATE" in the message box of your e-transfer. Send your deposit via e-transfer to danika.bertrand7@gmail.com.
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Workshops take place in my basement home studio in Sarnia, ON. Please be aware that there are stairs leading down to the studio. If accessibility is a concern, don’t hesitate to reach out so we can arrange a more suitable location. Parking is available on the street, and you’ll enter through the back door; the address will be provided upon booking. Please note that there are no public restrooms available on site.
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Our workshops are designed for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced potters. We’ll guide you through the process, so no prior experience is necessary!
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Typically, workshops last about 2-3 hours, depending on the group.
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All necessary materials, including clay, tools, and glazes, are included in the workshop fee. You’ll leave with your own creations!
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We provide aprons, but we recommend wearing comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting a little messy, as clay can be quite the adventure! Please remember to remove all jewelry from your hands, including rings, bracelets, and Apple Watches. If possible, trimming your nails before the workshop can also make the process easier and more enjoyable!
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Your creations will need to be bisque fired in our kiln, glazed and then glaze fired. Depending on other circumstances, it takes 2-4 weeks.
