Beginning Wheel 2 is the next step for students who have completed one or more foundational wheel-throwing classes and feel comfortable working with weights of one to two pounds. Students should have mastered wedging clay, centering on the wheel, and throwing basic cylindrical forms. All work in this course is fired to Cone 10.
Beginning 2 classes build on those fundamental skills while introducing additional techniques for finishing and refining your thrown forms to a higher standard of craftsmanship.
Clay is not included in the course fee and must be purchased separately. Non-members must remove all clay from the studio at the end of each class. The studio is not responsible for tools or clay left behind by students.
What You Will Do:
The first session focuses on centering techniques and creating simple forms, such as cylinders on the wheel.
In the second session, you will learn trimming techniques to finish pieces from the first session while continuing to throw additional forms.
In the third session, you will explore advanced throwing and trimming methods. Please note: this is the final day you are permitted to throw new pieces. Any pieces thrown after this session will not be fired.
In the fourth session, you will learn glazing techniques for your bisqueware pieces. All your work should be ready for glazing on this day.
You must be 18 or older to enroll. Participants aged 14 to 17 may attend only when accompanied by an adult member or fellow student.
Important Guidelines:
- Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to get settled.
- Wear casual, comfortable clothing and shoes you don't mind getting soiled. While our clay rinses out easily with regular washing, some glazes and materials require more care.
- Bring an apron if you have one, along with a towel for cleanup.
- Keep fingernails trimmed short. Long nails make wheel work difficult and can interfere with shaping clay. Short nails help you work with greater ease and get more from your class experience.
- Remove all jewelry, including rings, watches, and bracelets. These items can catch or get in the way when working with clay and the wheel.
- If you have long hair, bring an elastic band or hair tie to secure it. This safety precaution prevents accidents when working near the spinning wheel.
