Introduction to Pottery

Introduction to Pottery - 4 week course

Four-Week Pottery Course – A Complete Introduction to Clay.


Get creative and confident with clay in just four weeks—no experience needed! Our Four-Week Pottery Course at ClayWays is the perfect introduction to the wonderful world of ceramics.

Over four relaxed, hands-on sessions held over four weeks you'll learn a broad range of essential pottery techniques including hand-building, slab building, wheel throwing, surface decoration and more—al lin our peaceful, rural garden studio inbetween Nantwich and Whitchurch.

Whether you’re a total beginner or someone returning to clay after a break, this course will help you build a strong foundation in ceramics,with expert guidance in a supportive, small-group setting.

What You’ll Learn

Each three-hour weekly session is carefully designed to teach you a different skill:


Week 1: Hand-Building & Pinch Pots – Learn how to shape clay with just your hands and a few simple tools

Week 2: Slab Building Techniques – Create structured forms like mugs, platters or boxes from flat clay sheets

Week 3: Introduction to the Potter’s Wheel – Try your hand at throwing pots on the wheel, guided step-by-step

Week 4: Surface Decoration & Glazing – Decorate your pieces with slips, oxides and glazes, and learn how kilns work

You’ll also gain a basic understanding of drying times, firing processes, and what happens to your pots inside the kiln—great knowledge for those thinking about continuing their pottery journey.

What’s Included?

4 x 3-hour studio sessions (12 hours total)

All tools, clay, slips and glazes provided

Two firings per person (bisque and glaze)

Use of professional pottery wheels and studio equipment

Your finished pieces, ready to take home at the end of the course

 Tea, coffee and biscuits—because creativity needs fuel!

Why Choose ClayWays?

At ClayWays, we do more than teach pottery—we nurture creative confidence. You’ll leave this course with your own handmade pots, a deeper appreciation for ceramics, and (fair warning!) a growing passion for clay.

Our small class sizes mean personalised attention and a calm, friendly atmosphere where everyone feels welcome. Many students go on to book our follow-on sessions or open studio time to continue their journey.

Book Your Place Now

This popular course runs regularly throughout the year and spaces fill up fast. Click below to check dates and availability—or contact us if you’d like to book as a pair or give the course as a gift.

Gift vouchers available

What’s Included in Your Session?

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Personalised Tuition

Whether it’s wheel work, hand-building, glazing, or sculpture, your session is customised to your goals.

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Hands-On Learning

Enjoy expert guidance in our cosy, fully equipped studio.

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Creative Freedom

Explore techniques or projects you’ve always wanted to try.

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Bring a Friend

Share the experience – tuition is for up to two people at no additional cost

Why Choose 1-to-1 Tuition?

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Complete Flexibility

Learn at your own pace with undivided attention from our expert tutor.

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Perfect for Beginners and Improvers

Whether you’re starting out or refining your skills, this session is ideal.

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Relaxing and Inspiring

Work in a peaceful, supportive environment designed for creativity.

Session Details

Duration

2 hours

Cost

£80 per session (up to two participants)

Location

Clayways Garden Studio

Booking

Flexible times to suit your schedule

Book Your Personal Pottery Session Today!

Looking for tailored guidance, a fun creative experience, or a unique activity with a friend? Our 1-to-1 tuition sessions are the perfect choice. Enjoy three hours of expert tuition and leave with new skills and your own handmade creations.

FAQs

Can I bring a friend?

Yes! Your session includes tuition for up to two people at no extra cost.

Just wear comfy clothes you don’t mind getting messy – we’ll provide everything you need.

Absolutely! Whether you’re new to pottery or looking to improve, we’ll tailor the session to your skill level.

You can pay by card on the day, or by bank transfer or cash