An Introduction to Wheel Throwing and Handbuilding
£49 | Thursdays | 6.30 - 9pm
New to ceramics or want to get back into it? In our taster sessions, you will be guided through the two most common clay construction methods: handbuilding and wheel throwing.
The session will begin with a hand building demonstration of making a simple vessel using pinch, coil and slab techniques which you can then use to create your own project. Then you will be guided through each step of making a bowl on the pottery wheel.
You will be led by artist and founder of Dalston Clay, Barnaby Hosking, with expert advice, tea, a great playlist and no limit on clay. Due to Barnaby's background in contemporary art, these sessions are very free and dynamic so we can either suggest simple hand building projects or you can come with your own projects in mind.
After a few taster sessions you will be well informed to book our cheaper Drop-In Sessions, becoming part of our thriving Drop-In Community, allowing access to the studio every day from 9am to 10pm.
Benefits of a Taster Session at Dalston Clay
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Affordable and excellent value.
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Learn handbuilding (pinch, coil, slab building) and wheelthrowing techniques.
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Tools, aprons, and unlimited clay provided.
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Small, intimate groups of up to 12 students means you get lots of one-to-one guidance.
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Air-controlled and central heated studio and studio with lots of natural light so you can keep warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
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Convenient and vibrant East London location just 1 mins walk from Dalston Kingsland and Dalston Junction stations
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Free tea, great playlists and relaxed friendly community vibe
*Firing and in-studio dip glazing of your pieces will be an extra charge of £5 - £10 depending on size. You can also glaze your work yourself at a Glazing Tutorial.
Available Sessions
Introducing...
November 28th 6.30 - 9pm
New to ceramics or want to get back into it? Join our Queer Taster session - a welcoming space for our LGBTQ+ community to connect, create, and find their flow together.
In our inclusive taster sessions, you'll be guided through the two most common clay construction methods: handbuilding and wheel throwing, all while building genuine connections with fellow queer creatives in a judgment-free environment.
What to expect
The session begins with a handbuilding demonstration of making a simple vessel using pinch, coil and slab techniques - perfect for expressing your authentic self through clay. Then you'll be guided through each step of making a bowl on the pottery wheel, with plenty of encouragement and zero pressure to be perfect.
You'll be led by our Studio Manager Ben Nicholls, with expert guidance, unlimited clay, tea, and carefully curated playlists. These sessions are wonderfully free and dynamic - we can suggest simple projects or you're welcome to bring your own creative vision to life.
This is your space - whether you're looking to try something new, meet like-minded people, or simply enjoy some therapeutic time working with your hands in authentic community.
After a few taster sessions, you'll be perfectly prepared to join our vibrant Drop-In Community with discounted sessions, giving you access to the studio every day from 9am to 10pm - and you'll already have connections within our creative family.
Why join us?
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Safe Creative Space: A welcoming environment where you can be completely yourself while exploring clay
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Community Connection: Meet fellow queer creatives and build lasting friendships over shared artistic exploration
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Affordable Excellence: Outstanding value that makes creative wellbeing accessible to our community
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Comprehensive Learning: Master both handbuilding (pinch, coil, slab) and wheel throwing techniques
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Everything Provided: Tools, aprons, and unlimited clay - just bring your authentic self
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Intimate Groups: Maximum 12 participants ensures personal attention and genuine connection opportunities
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Perfect Environment: Climate-controlled studio filled with natural light, designed for comfort and creativity
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No Judgment Zone: Celebrate mistakes, embrace imperfection, and find joy in the creative process together
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Come as you are, create what speaks to you, and discover your tribe in the therapeutic world of clay.
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Part of Dalston Clay's commitment to creating inclusive spaces where creativity and community flourish together.
*Firing and in-studio dip glazing of your pieces will be an extra charge of £5 - £10 depending on size. You can also glaze your work yourself at a Glazing Tutorial.
Available Sessions
Please note that we cannot transfer your booking after one week before your session.
Please see our cancellation policy for further details
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As a CIC and Social Enterprise, it is our intention to make Dalston Clay a studio that is available to everyone, regardless of financial circumstance. While we need to function as a business, we never want money to be the reason why someone can't benefit from what we've built. If you truly can't afford the full cost of our offerings, we invite you to contact us to discuss your situation and we will endeavour to sort something out.
