Intensive Progression
About our Intensive Progression Course
This intensive two-day practice-based throwing course is for throwers who have prior experience and want to improve their skills. Over the course of two days we will start to introduce larger weights of clay, practice forming shapes with intention and learn to throw and turn a bowl. It will be held in the Kiln Shed, which is a large purpose-built studio within our grounds at Whichford Pottery that allows plenty of space to practice and develop your work.
Our Progression courses are taught by our Senior Throwers Joe, Riv and Simon, who have over 50 years combined experience working with us here at Whichford and throw everything from bespoke tableware to large flowerpots. The techniques our tutors will share with you will be the same as we share with our apprentices and these will provide you with a solid foundation for your pottery journey, no matter which direction you wish to take it.
The principles of the techniques are introduced through a series of short demonstrations. The rest of the time will be spent practicing these methods and getting through lots of clay! Help will be on hand every step of the way. On your last session you will be able to keep your favourite pieces of work, these will be dried, glazed and fired in our kilns.
The classes include demonstrations of techniques, plus one-to-one tuition from one of our Senior Throwers.
The course covers:
— Clay preparation
— Centering and the foundations of the Three Pull technique
— Practicing form, throwing to specific measurements and creating shapes with intention
— Introduction to making and turning a bowl
Key Information
When: 16th and 17th August
Where: The Kiln Shed, Whichford Pottery
Places: 8
Price: £450 for two-day course.
Price includes clay & firing costs.
Level: For our Progression courses we ask for throwers to have some prior throwing experience.
What you take home: Up to five pieces that you throw on your last session. We will fire this for collection three weeks later.
Price includes clay, materials and firings as well as lunch & tea and cake on both days.
Daily Timetable and Refreshments
Day 1: 9.30 am – 4.30 pm
Day 2: 10 am – 4.30pm
There will be an hour’s lunch break each day between 12.30 and 1.30. Lunch will be provided by our café, The Straw Kitchen.
We will have a half an hour tea break at 2.45 pm. Tea, coffee, biscuits/cake will be available throughout the day (self service). Individuals are encouraged to take breaks as and when they feel necessary throughout the day.
Course Materials
Tools, equipment and aprons will be provided.
Please remember to wear comfortable clothing that
you do not mind getting dirty.
All clay and firing costs are included.
Please note that the clay you will be using throughout the course is earthenware. Your pieces will be glazed in a clear glaze by our team before firing.
Accommodation
Whichford Pottery sits on the edge of the Cotswolds and is surrounded by beautiful towns and villages. We have put together a list of our recommended places to stay whilst you are on your course. This list is by no means exhaustive!
Click here for recommended accommodation options.
For more information or if you have any queries email us
thekilnshed@whichfordpottery.com