Introduction to Pottery
Sarah Wolf
Class Preview
0:59
- In-depth Instruction; over 78 mins
- On-demand video access anytime
- Bonus downloadable PDF resources
- Access to class Q&A
Clay & Cones
5:40
Discover how to prepare your clay and about the different kinds available. You'll also get a basic understanding of cones, a measurement of heat being absorbed in the kiln.
Inspiration
0:56
Sarah is deeply moved by her surroundings and the solace of her studio.
Space & Tools
2:43
Sarah shares her tips for arranging your setup, whether you're in a home studio or a community center. Then learn about the tools you'll need.
Transformation
1:08
Get an introduction to the concepts behind throwing before you start.
Centering
9:37
Centering is a critical first step. In this lesson, learn to balance wheel speed, pressure and hand position as you move the clay up and down, aligning it perfectly to the center of the wheel.
Opening & Pulling
8:34
Now open your piece and pull up the walls to create a cylinder. See how to compress the base of your vessel, control wall-thickness and create your desired shape.
Troubleshooting & Final Touches
8:20
Here, Sarah takes a look at what can go wrong as you learn how to throw and fix any mistakes. After that, practice an exercise that will help you achieve a perfect profile in your cylinder.
Connection & Community
0:58
Sarah reflects on how her work has given her connection and collaboration.
Trimming & Surface Texture
12:37
Sarah demonstrates trimming techniques that will allow you to remove unwanted throw marks or mistakes, or to add a foot or other design element. Learn how to carve the surface of your piece to make it unique.
Useful & Beautiful
0:55
Discover the importance of making something with purpose.
Handles
11:01
The perfect handle is a personal and creative design choice. Learn two ways to create handles, by pulling and extruding, and a method for attachment that leaves plenty of room for you to smooth over the joint later to create cohesive pieces. Learn techniques for avoiding and dealing with detaching or cracking connection points.
An Artist's Daughter
4:35
Explore a mother's influence on her daughter's evolution as an artist.
Glazing
9:59
Glazing can create simple clean lines or bright pops of color. Learn the basics of glaze as well as the most common application method: dipping. Use wax to create two simple designs that can inspire your own creativity.
Make your own decorative mug as you learn pottery throwing basics. Master potter Sarah Wolf shows you how from start to finish in this beginner’s class.
Sarah Wolf
Oregon native Sarah Wolf is a ceramic artist and founder of Wolf Ceramics, where she sells an array of hand-thrown home goods. Sarah earned a post-baccalaureate certificate in ceramics at Oregon College of Art and Craft. Her business is built on a foundation that values the hard work of its craftspeople, the quality of its products and the ongoing relationships with its customers and community.
Bonus materials available after purchase