Five-day Ceramics Course 1st level

Ceramics Course – Level One

We cordially invite you to a five-day introductory ceramics course running from Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM! Learn techniques, materials, and the secrets of working with clay and gain a solid foundation for creative work.

During 5 sessions (25 workshop hours in total), you will work under the guidance of an instructor with over 20 years of experience in ceramics and 5 years of practice running a commercial studio. The course covers the creation of both artistic and functional ceramic objects.

In addition to learning ceramic techniques, you will learn how to organize a studio, operate tools and equipment, and understand the properties of various ceramic masses.

Course Program

1. Ceramic Studio Organization

• Principles of ergonomics and occupational safety and health (OSH).
• Overview of tools and equipment: pottery wheel, ceramic kiln, modeling and rolling tools.
• Organization of the ceramic production process in a small studio.

2. Ceramic Masses

• Types of ceramic masses: stoneware, porcelain, grog clay and their applications.
• Selecting clay for different types of work.
• Clay preparation techniques.

3. Hand-building Techniques

• Pinch Pot – forming vessels from a ball.
• Coiling – building structures by joining coils with slip and blending.
• Modeling solid forms – basics of ceramic sculpture and creating artistic shapes.

4. Ceramic Decoration Techniques

• Underglaze paints and engobes: European materials and paints from the USA.
• Creating your own slips for decoration.
• Decorative techniques: sgraffito, underglaze decals, and other decorating methods.

5. Glazing and Firing Ceramics

• Types of glazes: food-safe glazes, firing temperature ranges, European and American products (Amaco, Mayco, Spectrum).
• Glazing techniques: pouring, dipping, spraying, brush painting.
• Preparing pieces for firing.

6. Introduction to Ceramic Sculpture

• Modeling solid and hollow forms.
• Creating stable structures and sculptural details.

Course Outcomes

Upon completion of the course, you will:

• Acquire skills in hand-building, modeling, and decorating ceramics.
• Learn to operate tools and organize a ceramic studio.
• Create your own decorated vessels and small sculptures, ready for use after firing.
• Learn the basics of ceramic firing and experimenting with different glaze effects.

A lunch break is provided during the classes (included in the price). Hot beverages will also be available on-site.

A 10% discount on the order applies when purchasing two courses at once (Level I and II).

About the instructor

The course is led by Alicja Kędzierska – founder of the AliKe studio, a ceramist with over 20 years of experience in creating ceramics, including over 5 years of practice running a commercial studio. Alicja specializes in sculpture, wheel throwing, creating unique forms, and using advanced glazing techniques.

She developed her skills in Poland, including under the esteemed ceramic artist Mr. Tworzydło and at the Ceramiq studio. She also expanded her knowledge abroad, gaining international experience, which she translates into the originality and unique character of her works.

Alicja's passion for ceramics and her ability to convey knowledge make the workshops she leads inspiring and highly professional.