Clay Body Lab: Understanding and Testing Clay at the Wheel

This one-day intensive workshop focuses on developing a deeper understanding of clay bodies through hands-on experimentation at the pottery wheel.

Participants will receive two 1.5–2 lb balls of different clay bodies (rotating through most or all clay types available at the center). Over the course of the session, potters will throw with each clay and directly compare how variations in composition affect workability, structure, and surface quality.

In addition to wheel practice, the workshop will include a clear, accessible breakdown of clay body components—such as silica, grog, ball clay, fire clay, and flux materials—and how each ingredient influences plasticity, shrinkage, strength, texture, and firing response.

By the end of the workshop, participants will:
– Understand the primary components of clay bodies and their functions.
– Recognize how different clay compositions affect centering, pulling, and structural stability.
– Develop sensitivity to plasticity, tooth, and compression.
-Make more informed decisions about selecting clay bodies for functional or sculptural work.
– Build confidence by experimenting beyond a single “default” clay.

This workshop is ideal for potters who want to move beyond habit and develop a stronger material literacy at the wheel.

This class is for ages 14 and up.

Please use the Notes section on the registration form to list needed accommodations.

Classes require a minimum enrollment of four students. If classes must be cancelled due to low enrollment, students will be informed three days prior to the start of the class and issued a full refund.