Put a Lid on It!

Class Description

There is something deeply satisfying about a lid that fits just right—the soft click as it settles, the balance in your hands, the quiet confidence of a form that works exactly as it should. This six-week wheel-throwing class is for potters who want to stop guessing and start understanding how lids really work. This is a focused, skill-building class designed for intermediate to advanced students who are ready to take precision seriously and refine one of the most challenging—and rewarding—technical aspects of pottery. What This Class Is About Lids demand accuracy, patience, and repetition. In this class, we slow the process down and break it apart so you can truly understand how different lid systems function—and how to make them work reliably. Through guided demonstrations, repetition, and close observation, you’ll learn multiple approaches to lidded forms that eliminate frustration and build real confidence at the wheel. What You’ll Learn & Make Over six weeks, students will create at least four lidded vessels, each focused on a distinct lid style that builds on the last. Weeks 1–4: Lidded Forms & Precision Techniques • Hollow form (puzzle) lids that lock into place only one way • Beehive lids—closed-form lids that fit without measuring • Using calipers to measure interior dimensions and throw precise, interior-fitting lids • Flanged lids, including building strong galleries and throwing well-balanced knobs Week 5: Glazing • Glazing completed lidded forms • Understanding how glaze thickness and application can affect lid fit Week 6: Evaluation & Refinement • Examining lid fit after firing • Identifying what worked, what shifted, and why • Refining techniques for future work Small Class, Real Support With just 6 students, this class allows for close observation, individualized feedback, and hands-on guidance throughout each session. Studio Access Students receive up to 4 hours of studio access eacheach weekend during the session, giving you time to practice techniques, repeat forms, and explore variations outside of class. What’s Included: • Clay • Instruction and demonstrations • Glazes and firings Students must bring their own tools. A detailed tool list with purchase links will be emailed prior to the start of class. Who This Class Is For This class is best suited for intermediate to advanced wheel throwers who are comfortable centering and pulling consistent forms and want to deepen accuracy, control, and confidence.