Note: There will be no class on September 24th due to the opening reception for Creep Show.

Slip casting is a valuable technique for expanding your ceramic practice and gaining a deeper understanding of clay as a material. In this course, you’ll learn the foundational skills needed to create one-part plaster molds for slip casting. Through hands-on instruction, we'll guide you step-by-step in using plaster to make molds from found objects and leather-hard clay. We'll also explore the unique properties of casting slip and how it can open up new creative possibilities in your work.

Please note that the tuition rate for this class is slightly higher than our other classes due to increased material costs and more total class hours (3 per week instead of 2.5)

Course Objectives

Learn how to properly measure and mix plaster
Create a one-part plaster mold from found objects (e.g., plastic bowls, cups)
Create a one-part plaster mold from leather-hard clay forms
Understand the properties and behavior of casting slip
Learn how to pour and time your slip casts effectively

Course Level

This course is appropriate for students at the following levels:

Beginner+ (some prior clay experience)
Intermediate

Age Level

Adults 18+
Teens ages 16-17 (may attend this class independently)

Included in your tuition

Midrange casting slip
No. 1 pottery plaster
Modeling clay
Firing fees for pieces made in this class
Use of communal studio tools

Good to know

There is no Open Studio time included with this course, but it may be purchased separately if desired. Learn more here
Please wear old clothes that can get dirty or bring an apron to wear over your clothes.
To cut down on trash, we don't provide paper towels in the studio. We suggest all students bring a hand or kitchen towel for drying their hands.
Registrations for courses that have not met the required number of students will close 24 hours before the start date of the course.
Students may return to the Clay Center during Open Studio to finish pieces started in class for one month following the last class day of their registered class.
If you've never been to the Clay Center, please click here to review our location and parking information.

Missed Class/Make-up Policies

Due to the unique topic of this course, there will be no make-up classes available and missed classes cannot be made up during our Open Studio hours.

Intro to Mold Making & Slip Casting with Michelle Swafford