Rogue Valley Pottery Supply

Taking the fear out of mixing plaster and creating your own unique design!

Molds for creating ceramic shapes have been used by nearly every ancient civilization. Scanning the exhibits of major museums and prominent collections will show both functional and ceremonial ceramic pieces that have been made through the use of both simple and sophisticated molds.

However, most of these molds were designed to be used as press molds, dies or stamps for clay. The creation of molds for use with liquid clay or “slip”, were quite rare and came into prominence fairly late in the evolution of ceramic arts. Why was the process of “slip casting”so difficult to develop and master? What determines the need for simple one piece or more complex multi-part molds?  

Join us to find out in a hands-on two day workshop! We will make plaster molds of fruit and vegetables as “patterns”, resulting in functional “slip casting molds”.  

Please note this class is for ages 17 and up. Out of town guests can arrange for shipping

Cancellations 15 days or more prior to the start of the class will receive a full refund minus a 5% processing fee. Cancellations up to 7 days prior will receive 50% back. 

Registration is not transferable. 

Cancellations made the week of the class will not be refunded.

January 31

10:00 - 4:00 

- learn how to design a “pattern” (original design for making slip casting molds) - look at physical examples of various types of “patterns” and “slip casting molds” - learn how to assess the number of mold sections required  

- learn where to locate “parting lines” on a multipart mold 

- prep “pattern” for casting first part of mold, using “cottles” and clay “dams” - calculate volume, measure, mix and pour plaster for first part of mold 

February 7th 

10:00 - 4:00 

- prep “pattern” for casting second part of mold  

- add location“keys” to first part of mold  

- calculate volume, measure, mix and pour plaster for second part of mold - repeat process for third part of mold (if needed) 

- disassemble and clean complete multipart mold