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hand placing leaves onto clay slabs: Student pressing leaves into clay to create surface texture, advanced pottery class West Asheville

Surface Play Wednesdays Starts Nov 4

6-week advanced surface design class, Wednesday evenings in West Asheville.

Starts Nov 4
425 US dollars
Plays in Mud Pottery

6 spots left


Class Description

Surface Play | 6-Week Intensive Building surface through line, layer, and texture This six-week surface design class, one of the most popular advanced pottery classes Asheville NC has to offer, is designed for potters who want to elevate their work through intentional, layered surface decoration. This class is best suited for potters with some prior clay experience; if you're brand new to pottery, we'd recommend starting with a beginner class first. Each week, we'll focus on a new decorative technique, allowing you to build skills step by step while developing a deeper understanding of how surface, form, and timing work together. Throughout the course, we will explore five core surface decoration techniques, including: Creating underglaze transfers and their application Sgraffito Slip trailing Slip painting and slip based decoration Additional mark making and surface development techniques Wednesdays, November 4 – December 9, 6:00–8:30 PM $425 per student Each class includes demonstration, guided practice, and hands-on work time. By the end of the course, students will leave with at least four new surface techniques, finished pieces, and a stronger, more confident approach to decorating their pottery. Class Structure Students must bring their own leather-hard pots to class each week, or purchase pieces from Kelsey for $10 each Select pieces will be glazed and finished during the final weeks of class Small Class, High-Touch Instruction Class size is limited to just 6 students, allowing for individualized instruction, thoughtful feedback, and true one-on-one time. Unlike larger classes with 15 to 20 students, this format ensures you'll receive hands-on guidance, personalized troubleshooting, and support tailored to your work and goals. Studio Access Students enrolled in this class receive 2 hours of studio access on weekends during the session, ideal for practicing techniques and continuing work outside of class. Tools & Materials Specific surface decoration tools will be available for use during class. I find it best to sample tools before committing to a purchase. With so many options, it can be hard to know what you'll like. I'll have a variety on hand to try until you find what works for you. This class is ideal for potters looking to expand their surface vocabulary, strengthen their decorative skills, and work in a small, supportive setting that encourages experimentation and growth.


Upcoming Sessions


Cancellation Policy

GLOBAL POLICIES (APPLY TO ALL CLASSES UNLESS NOTED) Capacity • All classes are limited to 6 students Tools Policy (IMPORTANT) • Students must bring their own pottery tools for all classes except 4-Week BYOB classes • A required tool list will be emailed upon registration • Students may optionally purchase a curated tool kit from the studio:  Basic Tool Kit – $50  Basic Plus Tool Kit – $75 • Tool kits are optional add-ons and not included in class tuition Materials • Clay, glazes, and firings are included unless otherwise noted Studio Access • Weekend studio access is included for most multi-week classes and is specified per class


Contact Details

  • 735C Haywood Rd, Asheville, NC 28806, USA

    828-225-4063

    kelsey@playsinmud.com


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