Handbuilding Sculpture Course
4-Week Handbuilding Sculpture Course
3 Hours per Class • 4 Weeks • 4 Students Max • Beginner
Explore the possibilities of sculptural clay in this beginner-friendly handbuilding course focused on creating ceramic sculptures by hand. Over four weeks, students will learn foundational handbuilding techniques including pinch, coil, and slab construction while exploring form, texture, balance, and surface. Whether you’re interested in abstract shapes, figures, objects, or playful experimentation, this class is designed to help bring your ideas into clay.
With a small class size of just four students, this course offers plenty of one-on-one guidance in a relaxed studio setting, making it approachable for beginners while still allowing room for exploration. The goal of this class is for each student to leave with finished work they feel proud of and new ceramic skills they feel confident continuing to explore beyond the studio.
Weekly Breakdown
Week 1: Pinch + coil construction, introduction to studio tools and materials
Week 2: Soft slab construction + building sculptural forms
Week 3: Hard slab construction + refining, carving, and surface details
Week 4: Glaze day! Finish your work with color and surface treatmentsAfter glaze day, pieces will be kiln fired and available for pickup approximately 1–2 weeks after the final class. Students will be notified when work is ready.
What’s Included
All clay, glazes, tools, and firings are included. No prior experience is necessary — just come ready to experiment and make.
What to Bring
Everything needed for class is provided, but students may want to bring:
• A sketchbook or notebook for ideas and notes
• Reference images or inspiration
• Water and snacks
• An apron or clothes you don’t mind getting messy in
Studio Notes
Classes take place in my studio located inside a historic West Bottoms building in Kansas City. During the summer months, the studio can get quite toasty, so please dress comfortably and plan accordingly. This is also why classes are scheduled during morning and evening hours to avoid the hottest part of the day.
Workshop Schedule
Tuesday Evenings - July 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th
6pm-9pm
Thursday Evenings - July 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th
6pm - 9pm
Cancelations and Rescheduling Policy
Due to the small class size and limited seating, all course registrations are nonrefundable. Your spot is reserved specifically for you, and materials are prepared in advance for each student.
If you need to miss a class, please reach out as soon as possible. While refunds cannot be issued for missed sessions, I’m happy to work with students on rescheduling or arranging make-up time when possible. Flexibility will depend on studio availability and scheduling.
If a class must be canceled by the instructor due to illness, emergency, or unforeseen circumstances, a make-up session will be scheduled.
Age Restrictions
15+
Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.