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Ceramic Handbuilding Classes in Mission Viejo Orange County

handbuild ceramic sculptures

Beginner-Friendly Pottery & Clay Classes for Adults

Come play with clay! My ceramic handbuilding classes in Mission Viejo are designed for beginners and returning students who want to explore pottery in a relaxed, creative environment.

Learn traditional handbuilding techniques including pinch pots, coil building and slab building, then explore textures, surface design and glazing to create decorative and functional pottery that is uniquely yours.

Potocki Center of the Arts
27301 La Paz Rd, Mission Viejo, CA 92692

Adventures in Hand Building Ceramics
Ages 16+


Tuesday Evenings 6pm - 8pm 
OR
Wednesday Afternoon 12pm - 2pm
OR
Wednesday Afternoon 3pm - 5pm
 

What to Expect:

Whether you’re completely new to clay or returning to ceramics, my classes are designed to be relaxed, creative and beginner-friendly.

You’ll learn the foundations of handbuilding pottery, including pinch pots, coil building and slab building. We’ll use these techniques to create both decorative pieces and functional pottery such as bowls, mugs, sculptures, planters and more.

I’ll guide you step by step through the techniques, but I also encourage you to follow your own creative ideas and make each project uniquely yours. There’s no pressure for everyone’s piece to look the same!

You’ll have access to lots of shared pottery tools, including some of my favorites — silicone molds and texture rollers — to help you experiment with shape, pattern, texture and surface design. You’ll also learn about glazing and how we add color and personality to your finished ceramic pieces.

Most importantly, expect a welcoming and supportive space where you can play with clay, experiment, learn new techniques and enjoy the creative process.
 

Ceramic Techniques & Helpful Videos

Below you’ll find a few short videos covering some of the beginner clay and ceramic handbuilding techniques we use in class. I demonstrate these techniques during class too, but there’s a lot to remember when you're learning something new!

Come back to these videos anytime you need a quick refresher.

Tracking Your Work
Because this class takes place at a community center and we share the space, I’ve created a simple app for tracking your ceramic pieces. Using the app is important—it helps us keep track of everything you create, makes it easier for you to remember your projects, and is required for picking up finished pieces. This system helps ensure that nothing gets lost and that everyone goes home with the work they’ve made and loved. 

GET YOUR OWN STAMP
HERE

You can register before or do it in class.

https://shelf.ernavandyk.com/ or click the button

Gathering Ideas
We also have a Pinterest Board where we gather ideas. Check it out so you feel more prepared. 

Come join me! 

Happiness is meant to be shared

Website designed by Erna van Dyk 2023

Orange County, California

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