Functional Handbuilding (Nov/Dec)
Beginner | 5Week Class | West Oakland | Enrollment opens on 10/5 at 11AM!
Service Description
Functional Handbuilding Tuesdays 6pm - 8:30pm November 10th - December 15th **There will be no classes the week of Thanksgiving! Instructor: TBD Learn the foundations of handbuilding while creating functional pieces you can actually use. This beginner-friendly 5-week course will introduce pinch, coil, and slab techniques while exploring form, structure, texture, and surface. Each week will focus on a different functional project, giving you the tools to continue handbuilding on your own. Week 1 — Pinch Pots & Small Forms Learn the basics of pinch construction Build and refine a functional cup or small bowl Explore thickness, compression, and shaping Add simple texture and surface details Week 2 — Slab Building Learn to roll and compress slabs Construct a functional tray, plate, or dish Explore joining, reinforcing, and clean edges Introduction to templates and pattern-making Week 3 — Coil Building Learn how to build with coils Create a larger bowl, planter, or vessel Explore shaping and smoothing vs. leaving coil texture visible Learn how to support and dry larger handbuilt forms Week 4 — Functional Forms & Alteration Combine handbuilding techniques Create a more complex functional piece such as a pitcher, vase, utensil holder, or lidded container Explore handles, feet, attachments, and other functional details Focus on thoughtful design and usability Week 5 — Surface & Glazing Introduction to glazing functional ware Explore dipping, pouring, brushing, and layering Consider glaze thickness and application for functional surfaces Finish and prepare pieces for firing Discuss care and food-safety considerations for finished work
Upcoming Sessions
Cancellation Policy
Fees & class schedule: Class fees cover instructed class time (as listed in specific class schedule), use of tools and equipment, open studio hours, studio glazes and firing up to 25 lbs of clay. Additional work may be fired for a fee. Pottery class fees include 25 lbs of clay Classes are subject to change if minimum student quota isn't met (7 students). Class switches will only be available 1 week prior to the commencement of classes and based on the capacity of classes at time of request. Attendance: It is mandatory for all students who are new to the studio attend the first week of classes. No “make-up” classes are given but you're more than welcome to drop-in on another session if there is an opening or absence. For Adult classes, Kids must be 14-years old or older Personal belongings: Any items left behind 30-days after last class may be discarded without notice. Refund policy: Class fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. Refund or Credit (minus $20 processing fee) if a request for refund is received TWO WEEKS and only two weeks before the start of a class. Credit (no refund) with less the 48 hour notice ONLY if your spot can be filled. No refunds or credits after attending 1st class. Classes missed due to failure to attend, planned absences, minor illnesses or vacations will not be credited for future classes. One-Time class registrations such as Drop-In Clay or Friday Night Clay are considered final ONE WEEK before start of class. Open studio hours for students: Monday- Friday: 10AM-6PM Saturday: 10AM-7PM Sunday 10AM-7:30PM (Hours subjected to change upon five days' notice)
Contact Details
1733 Peralta St, Oakland, CA 94607, USA
WestOakland@clayroomsf.com