Handbuildt Tableware (Session 5)

Service Description

Fridays 5-7:30pm, June 27th - August 8th (no class July 4th) In this 6-week class, students will explore foundational handbuilding techniques to design and create a personalized place setting. Each student will develop a set of functional tableware items—such as plates, bowls, and cups—that are unified through form, design, and surface treatment. The course encourages thoughtful experimentation, and students are welcome to expand their sets with additional accessories like vases, serving dishes, or utensils. Week 1: Gathering Inspiration + Create Test Tiles - This class will begin the course by introducing core concepts around form, function, and aesthetic cohesion. Week 2: Slab Building — Plates, Platters, Cups - Templates, drape molds, and textural tools to create forms that are both functional and visually compelling. Week 3: Pinch and Coil — Bowls, Dip Dishes, Vases - Cover hand-rolling coils, using the extruder, and shaping forms like bowls, salt cellars, and pitchers. We’ll also discuss surface treatments at this stage and how to either highlight or refine the marks left by your hands. Week 4: Carving and Subtractive Form — Accessories and Detail Work -This session explores subtractive methods like kurinuki, a Japanese technique for hollowing out solid blocks of clay. Students will use carving tools to create smaller, detailed pieces such as ramekins, napkin rings, serving spoons, or candle holders. Week 5: Surface Design and Decoration -Students will experiment with underglaze, sgraffito, wax resist, and oxide washes to add personality and depth to their work. Week 6: Glazing and Final Touches -The final class is dedicated to glazing and presentation.