T2/26 Tues Pottery Eve Class - slab building

Beginners Pottery Evening Class – Tuesday Term 2

Curious about clay or keen to start fresh? This relaxed beginners handbuilding class is perfect for adults (18+). Tutor Josie will guide you through simple foundational techniques with clear demonstrations and plenty of hands-on practice.

You’ll learn how to work with clay using slabs, shaping and decorating your own pieces while building confidence with each project.

Class Overview

Dates: April 28 – June 16

Term 2 is structured into two project blocks (3 weeks each) with a short break in the middle. At the end of the term we’ll meet up at the pub to celebrate and collect your finished pieces.

Class schedule and cost

Project 1 – House Sculpture
April 28, May 5, May 12

Break Week
May 19

Project 2 – Cylindrical Vessel
May 26, June 2, June 9

Collection + Pub Meetup
June 16

Cost: $240
(All materials, firings and glazes included)

Project 1 – Hard Slab House

In this first project you’ll learn how to construct a small house form using hard slabs of clay. Your piece can become a tea light house, plant holder, or a sculptural memory of a special place.

In the final week you’ll glaze your work with a glossy white glaze, adding your own accent colour while leaving a small section unglazed to reveal the warm clay body beneath.

Project 2 – Cylindrical Vessel with Sgraffito

In the second project you’ll create a handbuilt cylindrical vessel. This could become a vase, cup, utensil holder or planter — you may even choose to add a handle.

You’ll decorate your piece using sgraffito, applying coloured underglaze and carving through the surface to reveal your design.

Your vessel will be finished with a clear glossy glaze, highlighting both the natural clay body and your carved decoration.

General Information

Time: 6 – 8pm
(You’re welcome to leave earlier if you finish)

Venue:
Climate Action Campus
180 Avonside Drive, Christchurch

Detailed directions will be sent one week before the class.

Bring:
Apron (optional) and a closed drink bottle.

Continuing Classes

This class runs each term throughout the year, offering the chance to learn further techniques including slabbing, coiling and sculpting. You can join in any term and tutors will help you catch up.

Please note:
No refunds or transfers. If you can’t attend, you’re welcome to give your place to a friend. If the class is sold out, contact us to join the waitlist.

Images shown are examples from previous students. Projects may vary slightly.