Thursday Evening

Advance Hand-Building Ceramics Classes (4 Weeks minimum)
R1650pm

Classes are suitable for more experienced ceramicists. Everyone works at their own pace, with individual guidance and hands-on support throughout.

Over the four weeks, learners will explore essential hand-building techniques, including:

• Pinching

• Coiling (developed over successive classes)

• Slab work

• Modelling in solid clay (additive technique) and hollowing

Clay Used:

We work with White CPS Fenix Special, a professional-grade grogged stoneware that is ideal for learning and long-term use.

This clay combines strength with flexibility, making it forgiving for beginners while remaining responsive enough for advanced work. Its grog content helps reduce cracking and warping, and its smooth surface supports both fine detail and larger forms.

Clay specifications:

• Texture: Extremely workable, versatile, and user-friendly grogged stoneware

• Firing range: 950ºC – 1260ºC

• Suitability: Hand-building, slab work, wheel throwing, and sculptural work

Important Note on Clay & Firing

Clay is a natural and temperamental material. Even when handled correctly, cracks, warping, or breakages can occur during drying or firing. Kiln explosions, while rare, are also possible and may affect your own or others’ work. Every precaution is taken to minimise these risks, but responsibility for damage or loss cannot be accepted.

What’s Included:

• 1 × 10kg bag of White CPS Fenix Special clay

• Dipping glazes

• Underglazes

• All firings

• Use of ceramic tools (or bring your own)

• Refreshments

• Personal storage space for your clay, tools, and private glazes during the course

• Paint-on glazes or lustres can be ordered on request and will be invoiced separately.

Class Format

• Small class sizes, no more than eight students, ensure plenty of individual attention in a relaxed, welcoming environment that encourages exploration and creativity.

The Studio Gallery:

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need any prior experience?

• No. The course is open to both beginners and experienced ceramicists. Everyone works at their own pace with individual guidance.

What should I bring to class?

• Just yourself and clothes you don’t mind getting messy. An apron is recommended. All clay, tools, glazes, and equipment are provided.

What happens if I miss a class?

• Classes run consecutively over a 4-week cycle. Missed classes cannot be carried over to the following month.

Can I make large or high-volume pieces?

• Yes, provided the work fits into the kiln.

Are there extra costs?

• The course fee includes clay, standard glazes, firings, and tool use.

• An extra 10kg bag of clay is available at R400 per bag (includes firing).

• Paint-on glazes and lustres are optional and charged separately.

Do I have space to store my work?

• Yes. Each participant has their own dedicated storage space in the studio for the duration of the course.

What if my work cracks or breaks in the kiln?

• Clay can be unpredictable. While all care is taken, damage or loss during drying or firing is a risk that participants must accept.

Where is the studio located?

• The studio is in Koringberg — approximately 1 hour from Cape Town, 10 minutes from Moorreesburg, and 20 minutes from Piketberg.