Service Description

In this class you will learn the basics of wheel throwing: Centering and Opening: The first step is to center a ball of clay on the wheelhead. This is crucial for creating symmetrical pieces. Once centered, you open up the clay to create the initial shape of your vessel. Pulling Up: Using your hands and sometimes tools like ribs or sponges, you pull the clay upwards to form the walls of your vessel. This requires control and practice to achieve even thickness and desired shape. Shaping and Collaring In/Out: As the vessel takes form, you might shape it further by collaring in (making the opening narrower) or collaring out (widening the vessel). This step refines the profile and can give your piece unique characteristics. We will trim, attach handles, and make lids in the third class. The hardest part is deciding on the infinite possibilities. Be prepared by having sketches ready to use your time best. Drying and Bisque Firing: Once trimmed, your piece will dry completely before being fired in a kiln. This first firing, called bisque firing, prepares the piece for glazing. Glazing: Glazing involves applying glazes to your bisque-fired piece. We use Coyotee Clay from our sister state, New Mexico. You will brush on 3 layers of glaze. There are 20+ glazes to choose from. Layering different colors will give a unique watercolor effect making yours a one-of-a-kind! Final Firing: After glazing, your piece goes in the Dragon kiln, which fires to 2200 degrees, melts the glazes into a glass-like surface, and completes the pottery process. The pieces are ready for pickup two weeks later. Additional Information: Your creations will be ready for pickup from the studio approximately 2-3 weeks from the workshop date. You should receive a pickup email when they're finished, but if it is eaten by filters, please come by the studio after 4 weeks to check on your pots or send us an email. Any pottery left at the studio 6 weeks after the workshop date will be donated, so please pick up your work in time! YOU MUST SIGN YOUR POTTERY. Denver Ceramic Studio is not liable for lost pieces that are unsigned and mistakenly claimed by another student. Not all pieces are guaranteed to make it out of the kiln if instructions are not followed. Inconsistencies in thickness can cause cracks or even shattering in the firing process. However, the goal is to just have fun, so don’t stress about it!