Taught by Sarah Hamelin

Handbuilding with Slabs

This 4-week class is designed to make unique, functional pieces without the use of a potter’s wheel.

We will be primarily using slabs of clay and building forms by hand using templates.  Anything is possible! We will be exploring all types of functional vessels: mugs, jugs, jars, bowls and planters. 

Learn each step of the process:

• Assembling forms from 2D paper template​
• Decoration using imprints, stamps, carving and sgraffito with slip 
• Glazing pottery for food-safety and use

No experience is necessary, and we encourage all skill levels to join! Available for 15 years+, or with approved accompaniment of a guardian.

Cost includes glaze, firings, tool and equipment rental. 

Clay must be purchased at the Clay Studio Collective on the first day of class. We determine you will only need ½ bag of clay ($25).

Check class availability

Class Structure

Week 1:  Slab Cylinders 
Let’s get away from symmetrical, circular pots! Learn how to make mugs, jugs and vases from a simple cylinder. We will add personality using “darts” and stretch our shapes to achieve unique oval forms.

Week 2: Handles, Spouts & Lids
We will add handles, spouts and lids to our creations from the previous week using slab, coils, slump moulds or sculpting your own decorative finials by hand! 

Week 3: Mini Plates & Decoration
Make a set of mini dishes using a variety of techniques from slab. We will use these dishes as blank canvases to decorate.

Week 4: Glaze
Learn how to prepare pots for glazing and experiment with different colour combinations and techniques. All your pieces will come out of the kiln food-safe and ready to use!.

When it's all said and done, it takes about 2 weeks until all your pieces are out of the kiln and ready for pickup!
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Above:  Pots with personality! Handbuilt pottery using slabs of clay to create unique, functional pieces for the home, garden and pets.

How Do I Register?

Check our Registration Page for upcoming dates.
We typically schedule multiple classes throughout the year. If no dates are currently available,  join our Mailing List to get priority notice when we release new dates each term.

join mailing list

Fine Print
Refunds: Cancellations are eligible for a refund up to 14 days prior to the course start date.
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Missed Classes: For Beginners’ Classes, it is hard to make-up a missed class, so please plan accordingly.
If Krista is sick and has to reschedule, there will be a make-up class.

What Should I Wear?
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You'll end up with clay splattering around and flying off the wheel, you'll forget you have clay on your hands and you'll scratch your head or wipe your face, and you'll almost definitely wipe your hands on your clothes. 

Which is why I will never advise you to wear your beautiful designer jeans, or jewellery. Here's what to wear to a pottery class...