8 Weeks of

Clay & Chaos

CLASS STRUCTURE

• This 8-week course includes one 3-hour class per week. The final 30 minutes of each session are reserved for cleanup, because pottery is messy, but we like to leave it classy.
• You’ll receive one bag of clay at the start of the course. For most students, this is more than enough to make all their masterpiece-level (or slightly wobbly) creations. If you do run out, extra clay is available for $25 per bag. Just ask your instructor.
• The course is designed to gradually build your skills week by week, introducing both wheel throwing and handbuilding, and giving you the freedom to develop your own creative voice.

Here’s what each week will look like:

• Week 1: Intro to basic wheel throwing. Centering, pulling, and classic beginner forms.
• Week 2: Trimming and continued wheel practice, plus an introduction to handbuilding techniques.
• Week 3: Further development in throwing and trimming, and more exploration of handbuilding.
• Week 4: Glazing technique application, layering, and all the tips to avoid glaze-on-the-bottom disasters.
• Week 5: Intermediate forms across both wheel and handbuilding, bowls with intention, mugs with personality.
• Week 6: Final throwing class; time to push your skills and make something you’re proud of.
• Week 7: Trimming and handbuilding. We’ll ensure your pieces are finished and ready for their final glazing.
• Week 8: Advanced glazing techniques and a final touch of magic before your work heads to the kiln.
• Our instructors are experienced, supportive, and ready to help at every stage, from your first wonky bowl to your final gallery-worthy mug.
• If you miss a class, don’t panic. While make-up sessions are not offered, your instructor will ensure your pieces continue through the process so you can keep up with the group. (But we definitely recommend showing up, it’s more fun that way.)
• All pieces will be bisque-fired and glaze-fired by our team. You’ll receive an email notification once everything is ready for pickup, usually within 3-4 weeks after the course ends.

Please note: Make-up classes are not guaranteed. However, if notice is given at least 3 days before the class, and if space is available in another session, a make-up class may be arranged.
Requests made less than 3 days before the scheduled class are subject to a $30 make-up fee.
We appreciate your understanding.

Please note: Pottery is a beautifully unpredictable craft. Sometimes the kiln gods are kind… sometimes they’re not. Zei Pottery Studios cannot be held responsible for cracks, warping, glaze surprises, or other unexpected outcomes that happen during firing. But don’t worry, your instructor will help you choose the pieces most likely to survive the adventure.