Beginning Hand building with Emily Rives

Thursdays

January 13th to February 17th 

10 AM-12 PM 

Ages 16+

In this class, students will learn ceramics through hand-building techniques. Each class will consist of a new technique to develop an understanding of clay, and the process of making forms and vessels. Students will make one to two small forms in each class. 

Week 1: Pinch- Create a vessel using the pinch technique. Students will learn how to construct a vessel by applying pressure to the clay with their palms and fingers. 

Week 2: Coil- Students will design and create thicker or taller forms through the coil technique. We will discuss the difference between large and small coils, and which is best for their individual designs. 

Week 3: Slab- Students will create a vessel using slabs. This class will be dedicated to learning about slab thickness, scoring and slipping, constructing walls, and dry time. 

Week 4: Hump/Slump- In this class, we will be using bowls and common, everyday objects to create unique forms that may only be achieved through this technique. We will also discuss the use of plaster molds, especially in the production of pottery. 

Week 5: Handles and lids- Students will choose from pinch, coil, or slab techniques to make a small vessel. They will learn different methods of making handles and lids, and how to apply them to their vessel. 

Week 6: Glazing- This class will be spent glazing the work that has been made throughout the course. Students will learn how to use wax resist to protect the bottom of their work and the kiln shelves, as well as how to use it to create designs on the body of their work. They will also learn about dipping glazes to decorate their work and make functional vessels food safe.