Beginner's Course in Handbuilding with Clay

Clay shaping is popular not only because of the many creative expressions it offers, but also because the process of shaping, kneading, and smoothing clay is calming and allows for a genuine connection with this earthly material, which is especially appealing in our digital age.

Join the clay shaping course and discover the satisfaction that comes from creating tangible items such as clay and ceramic products. All materials are included in the course fee!

In the beginner's course, we will explore handbuilding techniques such as pinching, coil building, slab construction, clay stamping in molds, and carving. We will also get familiar with all the equipment and tools that assist with clay shaping and are available in the ceramics lab at Center Rog.

Over four sessions, we will learn:

1st session:

Pinching and coils: Introduction to basic techniques used in working with clay, which complement each other well. We will also explore different types of clay, how to properly knead and prepare clay, and how to combine clay using slip. We will also prepare test engobes. The result of the first session will be a pinched cup and a coil cup.

2nd session:

Slabs and extruder (rolling pin and extruder): We will learn how to use a rolling pin for clay and a wall extruder. Each participant will create one test piece, combining multiple slabs of clay. We will also look at how the extruder works and its uses, from making full pieces and handles to extruding coils for further creation. By combining rolled slabs and extrusion, we will create a small vase.

3rd session:

Carving (e.g. kurinuki) and molds: We will explore methods of shaping clay by removing material, such as the Japanese kurinuki technique. We will shape clay using molds, from pressing into plaster molds to using styrofoam molds and other materials. One of the techniques we will explore in the third session will be used to create a flower pot.

4th session:

Underglaze colors: In the final session, we will touch on training for the glazing station. We will learn decorating techniques for clay and explore glazes and underglaze colors. At the end, we will glaze all the pieces created throughout the course.

*The pieces will be fired by the Center Rog team. Once ready, you can pick them up at the Made in Rog store.

This course is open to anyone interested in learning clay shaping or enhancing their skills. You will become well-acquainted with our ceramics lab, which you can later use independently during open sessions.

Dates:

• Wednesday, January 15, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
• Wednesday, January 22, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
• Wednesday, January 29, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
• Wednesday, February 5, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Prerequisite:

NO, prior knowledge is not required. The program is suitable for those 14 years and older.

Is the workshop considered training?

YES, by participating in the course, you will complete training for the free-form shaping workstation in the ceramics lab. Next time, you will be able to use this workstation independently during open sessions.

About the mentors:

The course will be led by mentors from the ceramics lab.

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Participants should gather 15 minutes before the scheduled start time in the entrance hall of Center Rog. Please store your personal belongings in the lockers, which the mentor will show you. Please be on time, as late arrivals disrupt the workflow. In the case of a delay, entry to the lab cannot be guaranteed.

The program will be conducted in Slovenian unless otherwise stated. In case of cancellation, you will be notified two days before the scheduled start.

If you are unable to attend the program, the registration fee is non-refundable, and it is not possible to change the date. You can transfer your participation to another person, but please notify us at least 24 hours before the program begins at the email address: steklokeramika@center-rog.si

We look forward to your company and creative collaboration-