Upcoming

Hand building 101

$ 285 usd
Register
Mon, Jan 5, 2026, 6:30 PM EST – Mon, Feb 9, 2026, 9:00 PM EST
PATINA Classroom - Hand building, 1010 Main St, Durham, NC, United States Map
Hand building 101

“Hand building is da bomb and I’m so glad it exists.”

- a man from and ancient civilization 700 B.C.

Do you want to relax while working in clay? Are you worried about falling in love with this medium and needing to purchase a wheel, tools, gadgets, and other gizmos? Do you have the desire to create without the restrictions of a circle? Well loon no farther because of you have a hand you’ve got the ultimate tool that is timeless, priceless, and always available!

In this 6 week course we will look at basic hand- building techniques that have remain unchanged for billions of years! We will go over pinching, coiling, slab work, and a lil kurinuki!

What You’ll Learn in Hand-Building 101:

  • Pinch: Shaping clay by pinching it between your fingers
  • Coil: Rolling and stacking coils of clay to build forms
  • Slab: Rolling flat sheets of clay to construct shapes
  • Imprinting and carving patterns
  • Using stamps, found objects, or tools to create texture
  • Proper scoring and slipping to join pieces securely
  • Hollowing and reinforcing forms
  • Creating lids, handles, feet, and spouts (depending on projects)

Includes:

  • 25 lbs of clay
  • 6 weeks Studio Access
  • 2 weeks after class ends to finish all work
  • Open Studio time outside of class to practice and explore

Students will meet for 2.5 hrs, 6:30pm- 9pm, once a week for six weeks. You will be able to progress at your own speed and instruction will be catered to your particular skill level.

The class must have 6 people to run.

Be sure to wear old clothes or bring a apron and towel. Basic beginner pottery tools can be purchased here for $15. If you have any questions about the class, please email Delores at infodelorespottery@gmail.com

Students must be 18 years or older. Some exceptions can be made. Contact Delores with requests before registering your child.

We do not offer personal make up days since all of our classes are full.Typically instructors repeat lessons so if you miss one week you'll have the demo next time. We also offer open studio, access to the studio on the weekends and some weekday options for students to come in and practice. 

Instructors

Garet Bullard

Pottery Instructor

Contact us

Location

PATINA Classroom - Hand building, 1010 Main St, Durham, NC, United States

Classifications

Categories
  • Hand Building
Age Groups
  • 18 and older
Levels
  • Session 1