Why Study This Course?
Want to create your own unique ceramic pieces? This course teaches you how to make your own moulds and vessels using slip casting and press moulding techniques. You’ll also explore a wide range of decorative techniques using clay and slip. This course is perfect for all skill levels, whether you’re a beginner or looking to expand your existing skills in both form and surface decoration. Get ready to unleash your creativity and craft beautiful ceramic art! Please note there is an additional cost of approx. £50 – £100 for materials on this course.
This course teaches the slip casting and press moulding methods to create your own moulds and vessels. You will:
Explore a variety of decorative techniques with clay and slip.
Gain hands-on experience in mould making and vessel creation.
Develop in-depth knowledge of ceramic decoration techniques.
Expand your skills in both form and surface decoration.
This course covers:
Plaster Mould Making: Learn how to make your own drop-off plaster mould.
Slipcasting and Press Moulding: Step-by-step guidance on creating simple bowls and other forms.
Demonstrations and Guidance: Benefit from regular demonstrations and individual help from the tutor.
Working Journal: Keep a journal of inspirational material, sketches, and technical notes.
Clay and Glazing: Understand the different types of clay and appropriate uses. Learn about glazing techniques and health and safety rules.
This is a practical, hands-on course taught by an experienced tutor with real industry expertise. They will share their knowledge and skills and provide you with personalised feedback. You will work with your tutor to develop your Personal Learning Plan (PLP) to focus your learning goals and measure your progress throughout the course.
There are no formal entry requirements for this course. All levels are welcome.
Your progress will be assessed using Personal Learning Plans (PLPs) and regular discussions with your tutor. This includes tracking your own practice through written notes and tutor feedback, gauging your progression and personal development throughout the course.
Clay MUST be purchased from the College Shop. The cost of slip, glazes and kiln firings is included in the price of the clay, which learners can purchase as required from the technicians' office (Art Shop, RAS 5). A range of clay types is available, and the tutor will advise which is most suitable for each project.
Learners taking part in glazing activities will require an FFP3 mask, which is also available to purchase from the technicians' office. Glazing takes place throughout the course in accordance with strict health and safety procedures.
Ceramic tools are provided. Finished pieces typically take around two weeks to dry and complete the bisque firing (the first firing), followed by a further one to two weeks after glaze firing before they are ready for collection.
Work exceeding 28cm (H) × 38cm (W) × 28cm (D) or weighing more than 5kg will incur an additional firing charge.
Learners are encouraged to keep a record of their work, either in a sketchbook or digitally, including photographs where appropriate. Records should include details such as the clay used, decorative techniques, glazes applied, firing temperatures and approximate dimensions of each piece.
No food or drink is allowed in the studio; a nearby hub area is available.
Please allow 15 minutes at the end of each class to tidy up.
Please note there is an additional cost of approximately £50 - £100 for materials on this course.
Please note that tutors may occasionally be changed at short notice. While teaching styles may vary, we ensure consistent quality across all of our courses. For this reason, a change of tutor does not qualify for a refund.