This weekend just gone, I hosted my first workshop from my home studio in Northamptonshire. This has been something I’d been thinking about starting to do over the last 12 months, and finally decided to put it into action. I love working with clay and working by myself, but it can get lonely at times during the day. So I thought what better way to continue doing what I love, than to share it with others and meet some new people.
There isn’t quite enough space in my actual studio, with every work surface covered in pieces in progress at the moment, so we did the workshop in our conservatory which is probably a much better space with lots of natural light. Students were invited to have a look around my studio and see current pieces in progress, my kiln, and learn about my making routine.
It was a lovely sunny spring day, so we were able to work with the conservatory doors open.
For the first workshop I focused on making a plant pot using hand building techniques. There is a lot to think about, including getting the seal on the pot just right, whether you want to include a rim or not, and how to decorate your pot. I was pleasantly surprised at the variety of designs everyone worked with, which is something I wanted to encourage – Everyone could create their own style and use their own surface decoration. Everyone made a dish for their pots to sit in, to collect any water drained through the holes.
Impressing textures
Joining the pots
The completed pots, now slowly drying ready to be fired.
I will now be running regular workshops and classes throughout the year, so keep an eye on my workshops page for dates, more information and themed projects. I do only have space for 4 people per workshop due to space limitations, but I think these small groups make the environment more fun and relaxed. Whether you are a complete beginner or already have some experience working with clay, everyone is welcome! There is an age limit of 10 and any children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
If you and a few friends or family members are interested in coming along in a group on a particular date that is not listed on my workshops page, please feel free to get in touch and I’ll see if I am able to cater for you.
