clay printing with leaves on a slab built ceramic plate
nerikomi patterned clay being shaped into a handmade cup
hand building pottery techniques workshop in East London
hand building ceramic bowl using pinch technique at Trace Ceramics Studio London
hand building pottery techniques workshop in East London

6 Week Hand Building | Nerikomi, Chawan & Clay Printing

£280.00

19 Apr- 24 May, Sunday, 11-1pm

31 May-5 June, Sunday, 11-1pm

Course Overview

This 6 Week Hand Building Course explores a range of expressive ceramic techniques through a relaxed and supportive studio environment. Rather than focusing on one single method, the course brings together several distinctive hand building approaches, allowing students to experience different ways of shaping clay by hand.

Over six weeks, you will learn techniques including pinch forming bowls such as chawan, rice bowls and small serving bowls, slab building with clay printing using natural textures, Nerikomi (Jiaotai) coloured clay pattern techniques, and the Kurinuki carving method. Each session introduces a new process, giving you the opportunity to develop both technical skills and an intuitive understanding of form and surface.

The course is suitable for all levels, including beginners who are new to ceramics as well as those with some experience who would like to explore different hand building techniques. Guidance will be provided throughout the making process, from shaping and refining forms to glazing your finished pieces in the final week.

Hand building offers a slower and more mindful approach to working with clay. This course invites you to spend time exploring texture, pattern and form, while creating a small collection of unique handmade pieces over the six weeks.

By the end of the course, you will have developed confidence in several hand building techniques and completed a series of personal ceramic works.

19 Apr- 24 May, Sunday, 11-1pm

31 May-5 June, Sunday, 11-1pm

Course Overview

This 6 Week Hand Building Course explores a range of expressive ceramic techniques through a relaxed and supportive studio environment. Rather than focusing on one single method, the course brings together several distinctive hand building approaches, allowing students to experience different ways of shaping clay by hand.

Over six weeks, you will learn techniques including pinch forming bowls such as chawan, rice bowls and small serving bowls, slab building with clay printing using natural textures, Nerikomi (Jiaotai) coloured clay pattern techniques, and the Kurinuki carving method. Each session introduces a new process, giving you the opportunity to develop both technical skills and an intuitive understanding of form and surface.

The course is suitable for all levels, including beginners who are new to ceramics as well as those with some experience who would like to explore different hand building techniques. Guidance will be provided throughout the making process, from shaping and refining forms to glazing your finished pieces in the final week.

Hand building offers a slower and more mindful approach to working with clay. This course invites you to spend time exploring texture, pattern and form, while creating a small collection of unique handmade pieces over the six weeks.

By the end of the course, you will have developed confidence in several hand building techniques and completed a series of personal ceramic works.

Date:

What’s Included:

All clay, glazes, and basic tools are provided during the class. While we encourage creativity, we ask that you only fire the pieces you truly love to support sustainability. The studio will fire 6 pieces per student, with each piece no larger than 10cm in diameter and 15cm in height. Larger pieces can be fired for an additional cost.

Tool Kit:

You’ll need an eight-piece pottery tool kit and a breathable storage pouch, which can be purchased at the studio for £12 (normally £15). You’re also welcome to bring your own tools if you have them.

Missed Classes:

We regret if you miss a class, we’re unable to offer a replacement session, but we’ll do our best to help you catch up during the next class.

We are looking forward to seeing you in the Trace Ceramics Studio!

Cancellation and Refund Policy:

  • If you cancel 15 days or more before the course start date, you’ll receive a full refund, be offered a rescheduled course, or be given a gift code to use later, with a £10 booking fee deduction.

  • For cancellations made 10-15 days before the course, a 50% refund will be issued, and a £10 booking fee deduction.

  • Unfortunately, cancellations made within 9 days of the course start date are non-refundable.

  • Gift Cards are non-refundable

 Thank you for your understanding.