Miniature Madness Aug/Sep (2026)

Service Description

Thursdays @ 6:00-8:30PM, August 13-September 17 Description: In this project-based class, students will be guided in the creation of a miniature universe. The projects will encourage students to experiment and reflect on the power of scale and its role in perspective. Through a variety of handbuilding and surface design techniques, students will create a visually cohesive series of miniatures. By the end of the course, students will have a themed set of miniatures and a vessel in which to house them. This course is perfect for beginners and those with some ceramics experience looking to create something more imaginative. Tools & Materials: Please bring a sketchbook to plan and record your progress! Feel free to bring any tools you may already have and want to use. Week 1: Introductions & Project Planning Discuss class overview, syllabus, goals, and timeline. Brainstorm ideas, sketch, and plan projects. Create a simple pinch pot for firing mini bisque pieces and begin working. Demo: Handbuilding, handling small amounts of clay, helpful tools. Week 2: Workday & Mini Throwing Demo Individual check-in. Projects should be mocked up by the start of class! Demo: Short mini throwing demo. Week 3: Workday & Textures Demo Individual check-in. Progress of miniatures’ “house,” troubleshooting. Demo: Detail work (attaching vs. carving, texturing clay, using different slips, utilizing clay at different stages to yield specific results). Sgraffito, mishima, slip trailing. Week 4: Workday (Last week for greenware) Individual check-in. “House” ready to bisque, miniatures in progress but almost done. Week 5: Glaze Day Individual check-in. All/most miniatures and “house” should be ready to glaze today! Demo: Finishing techniques, underglaze vs. glaze, celadons, glossy/satin/matte/satin matte glazes. Week 6: Critique & Potluck Discuss projects, reflect, receive and give feedback! Please bring your sketches to showcase progress of your project.