Join ceramicist Chiara Coppola on this beginners day workshop to learn how to throw bowls on the wheel.

Bowls are one of the most satisfying and useful forms to make on the pottery wheel, but they can also be surprisingly tricky to master. This one-day beginner workshop is designed as a gentle and supportive introduction to throwing bowls, helping you build confidence and develop core wheel-throwing skills.

Throughout the day, you will be guided step-by-step through the process of making simple bowl forms on the wheel. You will cover the fundamentals of centering clay, opening out forms, creating even curves, and shaping bowls with balance and control. Demonstrations will focus on understanding the differences between throwing cylinders and bowls, with plenty of time for practice and individual guidance.

As well as learning practical techniques, you will begin to understand how clay behaves on the wheel and how small adjustments in movement and pressure can dramatically change a form. You will also look at common beginner challenges such as uneven rims, collapsing walls, and cracking, helping you feel more confident troubleshooting your work.

By the end of the workshop, you will have created a selection of bowl forms and gained a strong foundation in wheel throwing skills that can be developed further through future practice. You can choose 1 bowl to be glazed and fired in our on-site electric kilns following the workshop.

Tutor: Chiara Coppola
Date & Time: Saturday 12th September, 10:30am - 4pm
Venue: Wheel Studio, New Brewery Arts
Price: £75 (£0.00 VAT)

Please note that this workshop is for those aged 18 and over.

You are welcome to bring a lidded bottle of water with you but we kindly ask that you do not bring food into the studio.

Refreshments are available at our on-site café Blend until 4pm.

For more information:
Visit our FAQ page

Who is this workshop for?
This workshop is aimed at complete beginners or those with very limited experience on the pottery wheel. No previous ceramics experience is needed. It’s perfect for anyone curious about wheel throwing who wants a relaxed introduction to making bowls while building confidence and foundational skills in pottery.

What you will need:
Please bring an apron or wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty.

Please remove jewellery and tie hair back.

All materials and equipment are included. One piece of work will be kiln fired with a transparent or white glaze. Firings can take up to 6 weeks. We will contact you when your work is ready for collection.

Accommodation: 
Residential option available. Find out about our accommodation, costs and how to book here.

Meet Your Tutor - Chiara Coppola

Chiara Coppola is a studio potter specialising in porcelain, creating both functional and sculptural work. She works primarily on the wheel, often combining throwing with surface techniques such as expressive brushwork and coloured slip inlay.

Her teaching focuses on understanding the qualities of porcelain, with a particular interest in form, balance, and the Korean moon jar tradition.