Handbuilding

Each term we explore a new collection of creative hand-building projects, from functional pottery to sculptural and decorative pieces.

We share the upcoming projects on our Instagram page at the beginning of each term, so that's the best place to see exactly what we'll be making.

Every piece is handmade, so even when we're following the same project, your creation will be uniquely yours!

Absolutely! We love seeing people bring their own ideas to life.

Our hand-building workshops do have a planned project, and the tutor's guidance is focused on teaching that activity to the group. If you'd prefer to work on something different, you're very welcome to do so, but you'll need to be a little more independent with your design and construction.

If you're looking for a completely self-directed pottery experience, our Open Studio sessions might be a better fit.

Pottery wheel workshops are all about learning the foundations of throwing.

We'll begin by learning how to centre clay on the wheel and work towards creating a balanced, symmetrical form. For beginners, this often means small bowls or dishes. If you pick things up quickly, you might even create a little vase!

The wheel takes practice, so we focus on enjoying the process, learning something new and seeing where the clay takes us.

Not necessarily, and that's completely okay!

Learning to throw on the pottery wheel can be challenging, especially the first time. Sometimes you'll create a beautiful little bowl, and other times the clay simply won't cooperate.

The workshop is about the experience of learning, experimenting and having a go, rather than guaranteeing a finished piece.

Occasionally, pieces can also be damaged during trimming, drying or firing. While we take care with every creation, pottery is a handmade process and not every piece survives.

After your workshop, we'll take care of the finishing process for you.

Your wheel-thrown pieces are usually trimmed by Mud Magik Studio the following day, and we'll carefully write your name on the bottom.

Your pottery is then left to dry before being bisque fired, clear glazed and fired again, ready for collection.

Yes! Children aged six and over are welcome to have a go on the pottery wheel.

Children need to be accompanied by an adult, and the standard pottery wheel workshop price applies to all participants, including children.

Wheel throwing can be challenging for little hands, but it's a wonderful opportunity to explore clay and experience the magic of the spinning wheel.

We work with earthenware clay, which is lovely to handle and suitable for both hand-building and wheel throwing.

It's a wonderful material for learning pottery techniques and creating beautiful handmade pieces.

All pottery made during our regular workshops is finished with a clear glaze.

We love how clear glaze celebrates the natural character of the clay and the handmade details of your work.

We don't offer a choice of glaze colours as part of our regular workshops.

Yes! If you'd like to decorate your pottery with your own glazes, you're welcome to book a separate Open Studio session.

Please let us know before your piece is glaze fired so we can keep it aside for you.

You'll need to purchase and bring your own suitable glazes, apply them during your Open Studio session and request a glaze firing afterwards.

Please check with us about glaze compatibility before purchasing, as the glaze needs to be suitable for our earthenware clay and firing temperatures.

Yes! Our regular workshop pottery is finished with a non-toxic, food-safe clear glaze.

Each piece goes through two kiln firings: first a bisque firing, followed by a glaze firing. This creates a durable ceramic finish.

Finished pieces that have been successfully glazed and fired are suitable for everyday food use, provided the piece is free from cracks or glaze defects.

Your pottery is usually ready approximately one month after your workshop.

Clay needs time to dry completely before it can be fired, glazed and fired again, so the process can't be rushed.

If you're unsure whether your piece is ready, simply email us a photograph of your work at mudmagik@gmail.com and we'll check whether it's been completed.

Collecting your pottery is easy!

Finished pieces are placed on our self-service collection shelf at the front of Mud Magik Studio.

You're welcome to come and collect your work anytime during school term, Monday to Friday, between 7 am and 5 pm.

There's no need to make an appointment or ask permission. Simply find your piece on the shelf and take it home.

We just ask that you're gentle around the other beautiful creations waiting to be collected.

Comfortable clothes that you don't mind getting a little clay on are perfect!

Pottery is wonderfully hands-on, and getting a bit messy is all part of the experience. We recommend closed-toe shoes and tying back long hair, especially when working on the pottery wheel.

Not at all!

Our workshops are designed to welcome beginners, curious first-timers and anyone wanting to reconnect with their creativity.

We'll guide you through the techniques, encourage you to experiment and help you feel comfortable working with clay.

The most important thing is to come with an open mind and a willingness to have a go!