Ever watched someone effortlessly shape a lump of clay on a spinning wheel and thought, "I'd love to try that!"? There's something truly mesmerising about pottery throwing – the focus, the feel of the clay responding to your touch, the potential for creation. Maybe you've even pictured that iconic scene from Ghost (though we can't promise a spectral Patrick Swayze!).
Well, you don't need to be a seasoned ceramicist (or a movie star!) to experience the magic. Here at China Blue in Totnes, our pottery throwing classes offer the perfect opportunity to get your hands delightfully messy and discover the joy of the potter's wheel!
Whether you're completely new to pottery or looking to refresh your skills, our classes provide a fun, relaxed, and supportive environment to learn pottery in Devon.
Why Give Pottery Throwing a Whirl at China Blue?
- Expert Guidance, Friendly Vibes: Our experienced and patient instructors are passionate about pottery and love sharing their skills . They'll guide you step-by-step, offering tips and encouragement in a friendly, non-intimidating way. No question is too silly!
- Top-Notch Equipment: You'll learn on our state-of-the-art potting wheels , making the process smoother and more enjoyable.
- From Lump to Loveliness: Experience the incredible satisfaction of transforming a simple ball of clay into your very own unique pot, bowl, or vessel . It’s a wonderfully mindful and rewarding process.
- A Creative Escape: Leave the stresses of the day behind and lose yourself in the tactile process of shaping clay. It’s a fantastic way to unwind and unleash your inner artist .
- No Experience Needed! Absolutely zero prior experience is required. Our classes are designed to be accessible and fun for complete beginners.
What Happens in a Throwing Class?
Get ready for a hands-on experience!
- Introduction: Your instructor will introduce you to the wheel and the clay, explaining the basic principles.
- Demonstration: You'll watch a demonstration of how to centre the clay (getting it perfectly in the middle of the wheel – trickier than it looks, but fun to master!) and how to begin shaping it.
- Your Turn! Time to get spinning! You’ll have a go yourself, with guidance on hand as you learn to pull up the walls and form your pot. Expect a bit of mess, plenty of laughs, and the thrill of seeing your creation take shape!
- Create Your Pieces: Depending on the specific session, you'll aim to create one or more pieces during your time on the wheel. Our popular Evening Pottery Workshop, for example, includes both throwing and hand-modelling, aiming for 3 items .
- Firing & Finishing: Once your class is done, you'll leave your precious creations with us. We need to let them dry thoroughly before their first ('bisque') firing in our kiln.
- Painting Your Pots: The best part! Included in many of our workshops (like the Evening Workshop ) is a return visit to our main Paint Your Own Pottery studio where you can paint your fired pots. After you've painted, we'll glaze and fire them again, making them beautifully glossy, durable, and ready to take pride of place in your home!
Who Can Join In?
Pot throwing requires a bit of focus and coordination, so we generally recommend it for ages 11 and up . However, if you have a younger child who is super keen, coordinated, and a good listener, feel free to chat with us!
Find Your Perfect Session
We offer various ways to experience the wheel, including one-to-one and group lessons . Keep an eye on our Events & Workshops page for the latest schedule, details, and availability. Our popular Evening Pottery Workshop (held on the last Wednesday evening of the month) is a fantastic 3-hour session combining throwing and hand-building – perfect for an after-work creative boost!
Booking is essential for all throwing classes and workshops as spaces are limited. Secure your spot via our online booking system.
Make a Creative Day (or Evening) of It!
Why not combine your pottery class with other treats at China Blue?
- Arrive early for a delicious coffee and cake at Wild Thyme Deli & Kitchen.
- Browse the unique gifts and homewares in our Lifestyle Store afterwards.
- Meet friends for brunch before an afternoon session.
Ready to ditch the stress and get creative with clay? Pottery throwing is a fantastic, absorbing skill to learn, and we provide the perfect place to try it.
Check upcoming class dates and book your pottery throwing experience here!
Have questions? Our main FAQs page might help, or feel free to contact the studio. Find out more About Us and our passion for creativity!
