Monday afternoon beginners throwing class 2pm-5pm

6 Week Absolute Beginners Wheel Throwing Course

Curious about pottery but not sure where to start? This relaxed and supportive 6 week course is designed especially for complete beginners who want to learn the fundamentals of throwing on the pottery wheel. You’ll be guided step-by-step through the essential skills to throw on the wheel.

Across six weekly sessions, you’ll build confidence at the wheel while learning the core techniques used by potters. Expect a welcoming atmosphere, plenty of demonstrations, hands-on practice, and individual guidance tailored to your pace. By the end of the course, you’ll have created a collection of functional pieces and gained the skills to continue your clay journey with confidence.

No prior experience needed, just curiosity and a willingness to get your hands messy.

Included in this course is glazing and firing of up to 3 pieces.

Your teacher for this course is Nicola Russel. Nicola has recently graduated with an MA in Ceramics from the RCA and is a keen, enthusiastic, and approachable teacher.

What You’ll Learn

During the course, you’ll be introduced to the fundamental processes of wheel throwing, including:

• Understanding clay basics — getting to know your materials and how clay behaves
• Wedging — preparing clay properly for the wheel
• Coning & centring — the essential foundations for successful throwing
• Opening and pulling walls — forming cylinders and simple vessels
• Shaping techniques — creating bowls, cups, and small forms
• Trimming and refining — finishing your pieces once leather-hard
• Surface decoration basics — simple textures and finishing touches
• Glazing introduction — preparing work for firing and adding colour/finish
• Studio skills— building good habits from the start