Ceramics

“The course was fantastic. I thought I would struggle but I came away with mugs and bowls I’d actually use!”

I always looked forward to the classes, the atmosphere was very relaxed and I learned a lot each week.”

  • Testimonials from previous learners

Capacity Ireland’s Introduction to Ceramics Course for adult learners offers a hands-on exploration of the art of ceramics. Whether you're completely new to clay or looking to expand your skills, this course will guide you through essential techniques such as hand-building, wheel-throwing, and surface decoration. Learn how to shape and sculpt your own pieces while developing a deeper understanding of materials and tools. You’ll also explore firing and glazing processes, as well as how to finish and display your creations. With expert guidance and feedback, you’ll build the confidence to express your unique creative vision through ceramics...

All materials and tools will be provided.

6 x weekly 3–4 hour sessions from 1–5pm each Wednesday, starting 4th February 2026 (please allow the full afternoon for each session)

Apply Here

Course Overview

  • Topics:

    ·      Overview of ceramics as an art form

    ·      Types of clay and their properties (e.g., stoneware, earthenware, porcelain)

    ·      Basic ceramic tools and equipment

    ·      Health and safety in the ceramics studio

     

    Learning Outcomes:

    ·      Understand the different types of clay and their uses.

    ·      Identify key ceramic tools and their functions.

    ·      Follow basic health and safety protocols in the ceramics studio.

  • Topics:

    ·      Pinch pots, coil building, and slab construction

    ·      Creating simple shapes and forms

    ·      Joining clay pieces together securely

     

    Learning Outcomes:

    ·      Demonstrate the ability to create ceramic forms using hand-building techniques.

    ·      Join pieces of clay using different methods (e.g., scoring and slipping).

    ·      Develop basic understanding of shape, texture, and form in ceramics.

  • Topics:

    ·      Basic wheel-throwing techniques (centring, pulling walls, shaping)

    ·      Creating simple pots (bowls, mugs, small vases)

    ·      Understanding the wheel’s mechanics and maintaining balance

     

    Learning Outcomes:

    ·      Centre clay on the pottery wheel.

    ·      Shape and form a basic bowl or cup.

    ·      Understand the principles behind wheel throwing and practice basic forms.

  • Topics:

    ·      Surface decoration techniques (carving, stamping, sgraffito)

    ·      Application of underglazes and slips

    ·      Adding texture and design to clay surfaces

     

    Learning Outcomes:

    ·      Use at least two surface decoration techniques on ceramics.

    ·      Apply underglazes and slips to enhance the aesthetic qualities of a piece.

    ·      Understand how texture and design can change the overall feel of a ceramic object.

  • Topics:

    ·      Basics of kiln firing (bisque firing, glaze firing)

    ·      Introduction to glazes: types and applications

    ·      Understanding the firing process and temperature ranges

     

    Learning Outcomes:

    ·      Identify different types of kiln firings and their purpose in the ceramic process.

    ·      Apply glazes to ceramic pieces effectively.

    ·      Understand the impact of firing temperatures on the finished piece.

  • Topics:

    ·       Post-firing surface finishing (sanding, polishing)

    ·       Display and care of ceramic pieces

    ·       Introduction to ceramic repair (e.g., fixing cracks or chips)

     

    Learning Outcomes:

    ·      Understand the methods of finishing ceramic pieces after firing.

    ·      Learn basic techniques for repairing minor flaws in ceramics.

    ·      Develop an understanding of how to display ceramic pieces.

Timetable

6 x weekly 3–4 hour sessions from 1–5pm each Wednesday, starting 4th February 2026

(please allow the full afternoon for each session)

  • Week 1 | Introduction to Ceramics and Materials

    Week 2 | Hand-Building Techniques

    Week 3 | Introduction to the Pottery Wheel

    Week 4 | Surface Decoration Techniques

    Week 5 | Firing and Glazing

    Week 6 | Finishing and Displaying Ceramics