Kokedama & Throwing Off the Hump

Service Description

Saturdays 12-2:30pm, August 30-September 20th (4 weeks) This hybrid class blends intermediate-level throwing techniques with the sculptural art of **kokedama**, Japanese bonsai moss balls. Students will practice throwing small forms **off the hump,** and finish with a hands-on botanical workshop to make 1-2 kokedamas. **What’s Kokedama?** Kokedama (苔玉) is a traditional Japanese gardening practice that transforms a plant’s root system into a self-contained moss-covered ball, often displayed on a tray or suspended in the air. **Skill level required:** Intermediate. Students should be able to consistently throw a 5-inch cylinder and ideally be comfortable centering 3–4 lbs of clay. WEEK 1: Intro to Kokedama + Throwing Off the Hump - Short presentation: History & aesthetics of kokedama + traditional bonsai influences - Demo: Throwing small dishes and forms off the hump (~5–6 lbs of clay) - Hands-on: Students begin throwing multiples (small bowls, trays, dishes) WEEK 2: Trimming + Refining Form - Demo: Trimming off-the-hump pieces + Japanese foot styles - Discussion: How foot choice, depth, and shape complement kokedama display - Hands-on: Trim last week’s work + throw additional matching or complementary pieces WEEK 3: Surface + Glaze Planning - Discussion: Glaze vs. raw clay for planters, water absorption, texture, and color - Hands-on: Trim remaining work, glaze all finished pieces from Weeks 1–2 - Choose plants for your kokedama next week! WEEK 4: Kokedama Making + Final Glazing - Demo: Making kokedama moss balls, wrapping styles, and care instructions - Hands-on: Students make 1–2 kokedama and pair them with their ceramic vessels + finish glazing any remaining work Included: 25lbs of Clay, 4 weeks of instruction with Samantha Teo, one plant with option to purchase extra plants.