Pottery making is one of the most thoughtful and transforming experiences an artist can have, helping you to connect your mind with your body and explore your creativity freely.
New to pottery?
Here are a few things to know before diving in to your first pottery class!
What is a pottery wheel?
There are many pottery making techniques that you could explore, but a pottery wheel is the best way to learn and experiment with this art form, especially if you’re just starting out.
A pottery wheel is a machine that allows a potter to shape any uniformly circular piece of work using the process called throwing.
This tool takes skill and patience to use, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be able to create a plethora of different plates, bowls, cups, and pots in various sizes, colors and designs.
Pottery equipment & supplies
Getting to know your pottery making tools is key to any potter’s success.
In addition to the pottery wheel that we just learned about, you will need:
- Kiln
- Towels
- Sponges
- Scrapers
- Fettling knives
- A potter’s needle
- Wire or ribbon
- Brushes
- Wooden modeling tools
If you are taking a wheel-thrown pottery class with us, then you won’t have to worry about supplying all the necessary tools and equipment—we’ve got you covered.
Glazing Techniques
Glaze can add texture and color to your newly formed pot, while also sealing the clay to protect your finished piece from water or heat damage.
There are different types of glaze finishes you can choose from that will create different effects once fired in the kiln:
- Matte: No shine with a sophisticated look
- Opaque: The surface and color of the clay is fully covered.
- Gloss: Shiny and easy to clean
Decorative finishes
A unique decorative touch is the last step in making your pot your own.
And luckily, there are plenty of different ways in which you can create and express yourself in the finished product.
You can add more colors to your piece with a decorative finish and there are also cold finishes that you can explore like painting, carving, decals or stamps to give it some extra flare.
A few beginner’s tips to remember:
- Stay patient: Pottery is about finding your center and strengthening your mindfulness through the process, and sometimes that process can be long, especially when you’re just learning.
- Clay can be reworked: Mistakes are not permanent with pottery making. No matter if it’s a little hiccup or somewhat of a disaster, you can always fix it before firing.
- Practice, practice, practice: If you are registered for a wheel-thrown pottery class, then you probably have access to open studio time. Take advantage of it so that you can practice your newly learnt techniques outside of the classroom.
At Kissimmee River Pottery, we welcome artists of all skill levels to our classes.
Ready to get started?
Give us a call at 908-237-0671 with any questions you may have and register online today!