Handbuilt side table (Nov/Dec) 2026

Service Description

Monday 5:45-8:15PM with Rachel H. https://www.rachelheibel.com/ Course Overview This 6-week class will focus on designing and building a ceramic stool or side table using groggy clay. We’ll begin by creating small-scale mockups to explore structure, proportion, and form before taking those ideas into a larger-scale project. Throughout the class, students will learn slab, coil, and band-building techniques, along with strategies for constructing, joining, and reinforcing large ceramic forms. We’ll also explore surface and glazing techniques specifically for working at a larger scale, from applying glaze evenly to troubleshooting common issues. The majority of class time will be dedicated to hands-on studio work, allowing each student to develop a unique functional piece or set of pieces from initial idea through finished object. Week 1: Designing for Structure & Scale Mini Project: Create small-scale mockups for stools or side tables; experiment with different proportions, leg structures, and configurations. Demo: Designing furniture in clay; scale, proportion, weight distribution, hollow construction, and structural considerations. Week 2: Beginning the Large-Scale Project Demo: Preparing and working with groggy clay at a larger scale; slab, coil, and band-building techniques for structural forms. Week 3: Open Studio & Structural Problem Solving Demo: Troubleshooting large-scale construction — joins, supports, cracking, warping, and maintaining even walls. Studio Work: Continue building your project with individual guidance and troubleshooting. Focus on developing strong connections and resolving structural challenges. Week 4: Open Studio & Refinement Demo: Finishing large-scale construction; refining edges, surfaces, joins, and transitions between components. Studio Work: Continue working with individual guidance. Complete construction and begin refining the surface in preparation for firing. Week 5: Large-Scale Glazing & Spray Booth Demo: Spray booth demonstration covering large-scale glaze application, mixing and preparing glaze, layering, coverage, and safe spray techniques. Week 6: Glaze Party & Potluck Studio Work: Complete glazing and final surface treatments. Discussion / Critique: Share and discuss finished stools and side tables, reflecting on the process from mockup to large-scale ceramic object. Potluck: Celebrate the finished work with food and drinks!