From preparing clay to applying glazes, learn about the process of making clay into finished ceramic pieces.

  • Receive hands-on experience with demonstrations at every stage of the clay making process.
  • Learn skills in making on the potter’s wheel and hand building with clay.
  • Create unique ceramic work which will be fired for you.

This six-week Introduction to Ceramics course provides an immersive, hands-on introduction to the craft. You’ll learn a variety of techniques in both making and decoration, including clay preparation, wheel throwing and hand-building.

You’ll also explore different methods of decorating your pieces such as using coloured decorative slips, underglazes with techniques of mono-printing, inlay and sgraffito and learn how to apply glazes by dipping, spraying or brushing in the dedicated glazing workshop in the ceramics department.

You’ll leave the course with practical skills and a collection of personally crafted ceramic pieces.

This course is led by Louise Blois, a ceramic artist and Ceramic Demonstrator at Bath Spa University, ensuring expert guidance and demonstrations how to use the extensive facilities on offer at Locksbrook Campus.

Introduction to Ceramics is an ideal opportunity for anyone interested in ceramics to develop a solid foundation through expert instruction and the access to professional facilities.

“Creating with clay and watching it take shape in your hands is deeply rewarding."

Louise Blois, Technical Demonstrator - Ceramics, Bath Spa University

Overview

This course will take place at Locksbrook Campus, Bath, BA1 3EL.

The next course starts:

  • Wednesday 17 September for six weeks, Wednesdays 6pm – 8:30pm

This course costs £235 per person. This fee includes the cost of all materials (clay, plaster, decorative slips, underglazes, oxides, and glazes) as well as kiln firings.

Introduction to Ceramics is hands-on and can be messy so please wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty or bring an apron or old towel.

Meet the team

Louise Blois is a ceramic artist inspired by her enduring fascination for the natural world and how to capture it creatively. She earned her BA (honours) degree in Ceramics from Camberwell School of Art in the early 1990’s and later completed her Master’s in Ceramics from the University of Wales, Cardiff in the late 90’s and additionally spent time studying in the USA.

In 2019 Louise then went on to co-found Clay Shed studio in Bristol, a centre for ceramics practice.

Since April 2023, Louise has been Technical Demonstrator in the Ceramics department at BSU. Providing hands-on support, technical expertise and guidance to students. Through working with the short course students, Louise will support participants as they learn, explore and develop their skills in a professional environment of Locksbrook campus.

Terms and conditions

Read the terms and conditions for taking part in this short course.

Contact us

For more information about the course please email your enquiries to shortcourses@bathspa.ac.uk .

Book your place