Upcoming

Shaping & Altering Clay

$ 285 usd
+ available add-ons
Register
Tue, Jan 6, 2026, 6:30 PM EST – Tue, Feb 10, 2026, 9:00 PM EST
PATINA Classroom - Hand building, 1010 Main St, Durham, NC, United States Map
Shaping & Altering Clay

Sculpt, Shape, and Explore Clay

This class introduces students to the timeless art of hand-building—an expressive and versatile approach to working with clay without the use of the pottery wheel. Whether you're brand new to ceramics or looking to explore a new technique, this course will teach you how to shape functional and sculptural forms using only your hands and simple tools.

What You’ll Learn:

  • Core hand-building techniques: pinch, coil, and slab construction
  • How to build both functional pieces (mugs, bowls, trays) and sculptural forms
  • Creating texture and surface design using stamps, carving, and layered decoration
  • Proper joining techniques and structural integrity
  • Basic glaze application and finishing methods
  • Understanding the drying and firing process

Ideal For:

  • Beginners with no experience or wheel throwers exploring a new method
  • Artists interested in slowing down and working more intuitively
  • Students who enjoy design, sculpture, and tactile processes

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.

New demonstrations every week will help to guide the projects but students are free to develop their own projects too!

The class must have 6 people to run.

Be sure to wear old clothes or bring an apron or towel. 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

Kimberley Pierce- Cartwright

Hand-building 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 7