Course Overview: Welcome to Beginner Handbuilding, an introductory ceramics course that explores the tactile, hands-on nature of working with clay. This class focuses on foundational handbuilding techniques while encouraging curiosity, experimentation, and personal expression. Participants will learn to build, decorate and glaze their own ceramic pieces, starting with simple forms and progressing to more complex projects. Techniques include pinch pots, coil building for larger forms and both soft- and hard-slab construction, offering the freedom to create functional and sculptural work without a wheel. Along the way, students will explore how everyday objects take shape in clay. Projects may include mugs, bowls, boxes, vases, pitchers, teapots and more, each shaped by hand and guided by process rather than perfection. Students can expect to make 6-10 pieces.

Skill Level: Beginner level. Must be 14 years of age to join.

Dates and Time:

Week-long course
Monday, July 13 - Friday, July 17
9:00 am – 4:00 pm

Important Notes:

Course fee: $560.00 (General) or $525.00 (Senior 55+). HST is not included in the price.
Materials included in the price: Two bags of clay, glazing and firing
Students can expect to make 6-10 pieces.
This course takes place at The Core in Belleville: 223 Pinnacle St, Belleville, ON K8N 3A7.
Building information, including room number, parking, directions, etc., will be provided closer to the start date.
A refund (less $20.00 administrative fee) will be issued if you withdraw from a class at least 14 days before the start date of the class. After this deadline, no refunds will be issued.
If a course is cancelled by Loyalist College, registered students will be provided with a full refund. College decisions to cancel a course will be made 14 days before the class start date.
If you have any questions or issues, please reach out to art@loyalistcollege.com

What to Bring and Class Prep:

Basic pottery supplies:
Small sponge
Needle tool
Wire
Rib
Scratch tool/scratch wire brush
Bring an inexpensive sketch book
Apron
Small empty lidded container
Arrive with short nails, remove all jewelry and wear clothes you do not mind getting dirty

Pottery: Beginner's Guide to Handbuilding with Elise Lorenzo