14-Day Wheel Throwing Pottery Course

This 14-day course is designed for beginners who want to learn the art of wheel throwing in pottery. Each day focuses on specific skills and techniques to gradually build your proficiency.

Week 1: Introduction and Basic Techniques

Day 1: Introduction to Pottery and the Wheel

• Overview of pottery history and techniques

• Introduction to the pottery wheel: parts and functions

• Basic safety and studio etiquette

Day 2: Preparing Clay

• Understanding different types of clay

• How to wedge clay properly

• Practicing wedging techniques

Day 3: Centering Clay on the Wheel

• Introduction to centering clay

• Step-by-step demonstration of centering

• Practice centering with different amounts of clay

Day 4: Basic Throwing Techniques

• Introduction to pulling up walls

• Demonstration of basic cylinder form

• Practice throwing simple cylinders

Day 5: Creating Basic Forms

• Understanding form and shape in pottery

• Practice creating taller and wider cylinders

• Introduction to trimming basics

Day 6: Introduction to Tools

• Overview of essential pottery tools

• How to use trimming tools and ribs

• Practice using tools on created forms

Day 7: Review and Practice

• Review of skills learned in Week 1

• Extended practice session for centering and throwing

• Feedback session with instructor or peers

Week 2: Advanced Techniques and Finishing

Day 8: Throwing Larger Forms

• Techniques for throwing larger pieces

• Practice creating larger cylinders and bowls

• Discussion on challenges faced with larger forms

Day 9: Introduction to Bowls

• Demonstration of throwing a bowl

• Practice creating bowls with varying depths

• Understanding the differences between bowls and cylinders

Day 10: Adding Texture and Decorative Techniques

• Introduction to texture tools and techniques

• Practice adding texture to thrown pieces

• Discussion on glazing and surface decoration

Day 11: Trimming and Finishing Techniques

• Demonstration of trimming techniques

• Practice trimming previously thrown pieces

• Introduction to foot rings and their importance

Day 12: Glazing Basics

• Overview of glazing types and techniques

• Hands-on practice with glazing your finished pieces

• Discussion on glazing safety and studio practices

Day 13: Final Projects

• Plan and create a final project using skills learned

• Incorporate various forms and techniques

• Peer feedback and group discussion on projects

Day 14: Exhibition and Reflection

• Presentation of final projects

• Group critique and feedback session

• Reflection on the learning journey and next steps in pottery

By the end of this 14-day course, participants will have a solid foundation in wheel throwing techniques and will be able to create their own pottery pieces with confidence.