About this course
Learn how to throw on an electric potter's wheel and create several stoneware pots. Please leave at least four weeks after your making course before you book a glazing day.Course Description
This practical one-day course provides an exciting hands-on introduction to the basic skills of throwing on the potter's wheel.
The day begins with a short look at historical and contemporary wheel made pots. This is followed by a demonstration and then guidance on the all-important process of clay preparation; wedging and kneading.
For the rest of the day, you will be throwing on an electric wheel. Everyone has their own wheel for the course which is limited to eight students. This enables the tutor to provide the one-to-one tuition and encouragement that will help you engage with this technique. The tutor will give helpful demonstrations throughout the day.
The aim of the course is for you to throw and trim approximately six to eight pots using stoneware clays.
After the course, the pots will need to be dried out, biscuit fired, glazed and then fired again. You can either enrol on a glazing day if you would like to glaze your own pots, or your pots can be glazed for you at the College. In both cases, you will be contacted when your pots have been glazed and fired, and are ready for collection.
Timetable
Timetable for one day courses
Students should arrive by 9am for registration.
Classes are from 9.15 - 5pm
Lunch is included.
Course Materials
Included
- All the materials and tools will be supplied for the course, including all clay, glazing and firing costs.
What students need to bring
- Work apron – preferably cotton
- Recommended reading (though not essential): Throwing Pots by Phil Rogers (A & C Black)
Tutors
Alison Sandeman is a long-standing tutor at West Dean. She makes functional individual pieces in stoneware, porcelain and Raku. She has a special interest in outdoor firing techniques.
Courses of interest
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Pottery and ceramics
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Pottery and ceramics
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Pottery and ceramics