Ready to throw with more confidence, consistency, and control on the wheel?
Our Improvers Throwing pottery course at Clay Shed, Bristol is designed for potters who already feel comfortable centring clay and throwing basic forms, who are ready to refine their technique, improve accuracy and develop repeatable forms.
Taught by professional ceramic artist Alex McCarthy, this six-week course focuses on technical skill-building and production techniques in a relaxed, supportive studio environment. With a maximum of five students per class, teaching is highly responsive, allowing you to progress at a pace that feels right for you.
Across six weekly sessions, you’ll develop greater control and confidence at the wheel while building a small collection of functional pottery. The course covers:
Batch throwing cylinders, bowls and lidded jars to set dimensions
Scaling up clay weights and throwing repeatable forms
Trimming and turning for clean, balanced finishes
Creating galleries and lids
Glazing and preparing work for the kiln in the final session
With clear demonstrations, 1-1 guidance and ongoing feedback, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of your process and leave with finished, glazed pieces ready for collection after firing.
This course is ideal for intermediate or improver-level potters who:
Can centre clay confidently
Have experience throwing basic forms such as cylinders or bowls
Want to improve precision, consistency and overall quality on the wheel
Are looking to move toward more confident, production-focused work
Many students choose to repeat this course to continue refining their skills, work with larger clay weights, or focus on greater consistency across forms. Returning students are supported at their own level and encouraged to set new personal goals each time.
If you’re unsure whether this course is right for you, you’re welcome to get in touch before booking.
Small class size (max 5 students) for plenty of one-to-one support
Tailored, individual feedback throughout the course
Professional tuition from an experienced working potter
A friendly, focused studio environment designed for learning
Take home functional, glazed pottery you’ll be proud of
Level: Improvers/Intermediate
Duration: 6 weeks. 10am - 12.30pm
Course dates this term: Thursday 23rd April - Thursday 28th May and Thursday 11th June - Thursday 16th July
Includes: All clay, glazes, coloured oxides, firings, and use of studio tools.
Tea and coffee provided (herbal and dairy-free options available).
Tutor: Alex McCarthy
Please note:
+Please wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty+
This class is limited to 5 students and you will have access to your own wheel each session.
Participants must be aged 18 years and over
Please read our Terms and Conditions before booking
Ready to throw with more confidence, consistency, and control on the wheel?
Our Improvers Throwing pottery course at Clay Shed, Bristol is designed for potters who already feel comfortable centring clay and throwing basic forms, who are ready to refine their technique, improve accuracy and develop repeatable forms.
Taught by professional ceramic artist Alex McCarthy, this six-week course focuses on technical skill-building and production techniques in a relaxed, supportive studio environment. With a maximum of five students per class, teaching is highly responsive, allowing you to progress at a pace that feels right for you.
Across six weekly sessions, you’ll develop greater control and confidence at the wheel while building a small collection of functional pottery. The course covers:
Batch throwing cylinders, bowls and lidded jars to set dimensions
Scaling up clay weights and throwing repeatable forms
Trimming and turning for clean, balanced finishes
Creating galleries and lids
Glazing and preparing work for the kiln in the final session
With clear demonstrations, 1-1 guidance and ongoing feedback, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of your process and leave with finished, glazed pieces ready for collection after firing.
This course is ideal for intermediate or improver-level potters who:
Can centre clay confidently
Have experience throwing basic forms such as cylinders or bowls
Want to improve precision, consistency and overall quality on the wheel
Are looking to move toward more confident, production-focused work
Many students choose to repeat this course to continue refining their skills, work with larger clay weights, or focus on greater consistency across forms. Returning students are supported at their own level and encouraged to set new personal goals each time.
If you’re unsure whether this course is right for you, you’re welcome to get in touch before booking.
Small class size (max 5 students) for plenty of one-to-one support
Tailored, individual feedback throughout the course
Professional tuition from an experienced working potter
A friendly, focused studio environment designed for learning
Take home functional, glazed pottery you’ll be proud of
Level: Improvers/Intermediate
Duration: 6 weeks. 10am - 12.30pm
Course dates this term: Thursday 23rd April - Thursday 28th May and Thursday 11th June - Thursday 16th July
Includes: All clay, glazes, coloured oxides, firings, and use of studio tools.
Tea and coffee provided (herbal and dairy-free options available).
Tutor: Alex McCarthy
Please note:
+Please wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty+
This class is limited to 5 students and you will have access to your own wheel each session.
Participants must be aged 18 years and over
Please read our Terms and Conditions before booking
