CREATIVE
Clay Hand Building | Beyond the Basics Course - 6 Weeks
Clay Hand Building | Beyond the Basics Course - 6 Weeks
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6 Week Beginner Hand Building Clay Course
Our Handbuilding Beyond the Basics Clay Course is a nest step to the art of working with clay after you have taken our Intro to Hand Building Course. This class is perfect for those who have worked with clay before in our aforementioned Intro class or in other hand building classes, as well as anyone wanting to strengthen their foundational pottery skills.
Over the course of this series, students will build upon foundational hand-building skills while exploring more refined techniques such as slab construction, pinch forms, and coil building. With a focus on strengthening craftsmanship and creativity, these methods allow for the creation of more detailed, functional, and artistic pottery—all without the use of a wheel.
Students will learn how to shape, refine, and assemble clay pieces while exploring surface textures and decorative techniques. Projects may include bowls, mugs, sculptures, trays, small dishes, and decorative pieces while building confidence with clay.
During the final portion of the course, students will prepare their work for firing and glaze their pieces using our studio color palette.
Classes are intentionally kept small (maximum of 10 students) to provide a relaxed environment and allow for personalized instruction.
Course Overview
Week 1 | Introduction + Trays and Dishes
Week 2 | ...
Week 3 | Cups + Mugs
Week 4 | Student Chosen Project
Week 5 | Rinsing + Waxing Preparation
Week 6 | Glazing + Firing
During weeks two through four, students will also be introduced to a variety of surface design and hand-building techniques including texture rollers, lace impressions, stamps, and other decorative tools. Students may follow the guided projects or explore their own creative ideas.
What’s Included
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Small group instruction with plenty of one-on-one guidance
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Clay for all class projects
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Access to all studio equipment and tools
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Surface design materials including lace, rollers, stamps, and textures
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Choice of glaze from our studio color palette
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Kiln firing of all finished pieces
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A calm, welcoming studio atmosphere designed for creativity and learning
Pricing
$200 — includes instruction, all clay, tools, glaze, and firings.
Class Schedule
Classes run for 2 hours once a week for six consecutive weeks.
Class Location
CREATIVE Community Clay Room
3244 W. Main Street
Claremont, NC 28610
The clay studio is located right next to our paint-your-own pottery studio and Creative Brew coffee shop.
Registration
Registration is required to secure your spot. Each course is limited to six participants to ensure a supportive and personalized learning experience.
Artwork Pickup
Finished artwork will be ready for pickup after firing. All artwork must be picked up within 30 days of notification. Items not collected within that time may be donated or discarded due to limited storage space.
| Clay, Tools, Supplies |
All clay, tools, and materials are provided. Please wear comfortable clothing you don’t mind getting clay on. Some darker clays may stain clothing, but our class clay typically washes out. Please note: class clay is for studio use only. |
| First Class | Please arrive about 5 minutes before the class begins so we can check you in. |
| Age Requirement | Our hand-building courses are paced for and primarily booked by adults. We welcome students ages 18 and older. |
| Cancellation Policy |
By booking this class you agree to our cancellation policy. With at least 48 hours notice before your first class session, you may: • Reschedule your sessions for another course • Cancel for a full refund After the 48-hour window, or once the class series has started, we are unable to offer refunds or transfers for any reason including illness, travel, or scheduling conflicts. Classes are offered in 6-week blocks and sessions cannot be separated or refunded individually. |
| Missing a Class |
The first class is foundational to the entire course. If you cannot attend the first session, we recommend enrolling in another class series when you can attend all six sessions. If you miss a class during weeks two through six, you may be able to make it up by attending another scheduled class if space allows. Please contact the studio to confirm availability. |
| Contact Information |
creative.claremont@gmail.com |
OPEN STUDIO
Once you have taken a wheel lesson or weekly pottery class and feel comfortable using the studio independently you are welcome to start utilizing our open studio hour memberships.
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