Join experienced tutor and ceramicist Abi Leach on this course to learn how to hand-build with clay.

During this 12-week course, Abi will teach you the fundamental skills needed in hand-building such as pinching, modelling, and coiling. You will learn a wide range of surface techniques, including mono and slip based printing, Sgraffito and surface resist techniques.

This hand-building course is intended to be flexible, allowing you to create individual items and designs under the guidance of supportive and experienced tutor, Abi. She will be on hand to give one-to-one demonstrations to help develop your skills and build confidence throughout your making.

You will be provided with a 12.5kg bag of clay, choosing between a white grogged stoneware clay and a buff crank stoneware, which you will be responsible for over the 12-weeks. This will give you an understanding of how to store and prepare clay, an essential skill as a ceramicist.

Please note, this course does not cover throwing on the Potter's Wheel. If you would like to develop this skill, please see our ‘Beginner Wheel Throwing’ 6-week courses and ‘Throwing: Skills & Development Open Studio’ 12-week course.

MEET YOUR TUTOR - Abi Leach

Abi makes a range of hand built domestic ware in terracotta adding coloured slip for pattern, decoration and colour. Production is in small batches and although all my work shares characteristics, no two pieces are exactly the same as the very nature of hand building ensures this! The pieces are designed to be used everyday and are intended to be humorous & provoke a smile.

Her work is stocked by several galleries throughout the UK, she regularly attends Craft Fairs & Festivals as well as being invited to submit work for specific exhibitions. She is a qualified and experienced teacher, having taught Art & Design at Secondary Schools for 15 years. Abi really enjoys teaching Ceramics and passing on her knowledge, skills & enthusiasm for making in clay to Children & Adults alike.