Beginner's Wheel Throwing

Service Description

This course runs once a week for 2.5 hours and is perfect for complete beginners looking to learn the basics of wheel-throwing or those with some experience on the wheel. Over six weeks, we will teach you how to throw and trim confidently, with the opportunity to try different wheels and discover which one suits you best. You’ll start with the fundamentals of centring clay and progress to creating different forms such as bowls, bud vases, and mugs. As you build your confidence on the wheel, you’ll explore techniques like pulling walls, shaping, and refining your piece. Each session will help you deepen your understanding of the pottery process and strengthen your skills. Week 1: Introduction to the Wheel & Basic Techniques An introduction to the pottery wheel, clay preparation, and studio practice. You will learn how to centre clay on the wheel and create simple forms such as cups and cylinders. Week 2: Repetitive Throwing Exercise This week focuses on refining your centring skills through repetitive throwing exercises. You will practise making the same form repeatedly to build muscle memory, improve consistency, and develop confidence on the wheel. We will also focus on wall thickness, symmetry, and control. Week 3: Trimming & Altering Learn essential trimming techniques to refine and shape your pieces as they dry. You will explore how to create clean edges, smooth surfaces, and prepare your work for finishing. There will also be opportunities to experiment with adding feet, handles, and altered forms to your pots. Week 4: Making Bowls This week you will learn how to throw small bowls on the wheel. We will focus on opening wider forms, shaping curves, and developing an understanding of proportion and balance. Week 5: Narrow Forms & Necking In You will learn techniques for creating taller, narrower forms and shaping necks on your pots. We will experiment with playful and functional forms such as bud vases, bottle shapes, and candle holders. Week 6: Finishing & Preparing for Firing Finalise your pieces by refining shapes and smoothing surfaces. Learn how to prepare your work for firing and discuss next steps for your pottery journey. Course Highlights: - Free parking on site - Unlimited tea & coffee - Small class sizes for personalised instruction - Up to 4 pieces are fired per person and ready for collection - All materials, tools, and firing included - Branded Studio Agni aprons - Option to become a member at the end of your course