Explore the process of creating small-scale ceramics such as chess sets, charms for jewelry, and more. Participants will develop foundational skills in working with clay while progressing through the full making process—from hand building and surface design to glazing and finishing. The course includes dedicated studio time to experiment, refine ideas, and produce a small collection of unique finished pieces. Essential materials such as high-temperature kiln wire and bead trees will be introduced to support safe and effective firing of small works.
What You Will Learn:
- Fundamentals of working with clay for small-scale forms
- Handbuilding techniques for ceramic charms
- Surface design using texture, carving, and underglaze
- Planning and producing small wearable or functional objects
- Use of high-temperature kiln wire and bead trees for firing
Firing Schedule: Once work is placed on the firing shelf, turnaround time is typically one week but may be longer depending on the thickness and size of the work, as well as overall studio production. All work must be placed on the bisque firing shelf by Friday, October 30, to guarantee firing before the final week of classes.
To accommodate increased demand at the end of the term, all work placed on the glaze firing shelf by Monday, November 16, is guaranteed to be ready for pickup by Friday, December 11. Work submitted after November 16 will be fired as studio capacity allows. Firings between semesters are less frequent and operate on a limited schedule, so work may not be available for pickup until studio hours between terms or the start of the following term.
Questions about the firing schedule may be directed to Scott Cooper, Senior Studio Technician, at scooper@fleisher.org.
All artwork, tools, and clay must be removed from the Fleisher Ceramics Studio shelving by the final class session, including by students registered for the Winter 2027 term. Unclaimed bisque or glaze work will be stored for one term only. Greenware will be discarded.
Accessibility Note: This studio is accessible by elevator, but some auxiliary areas require stairs. For access needs or accommodations, contact adulteducation@fleisher.org.
Please note: There is no class scheduled for 9/21 (Yom Kippur) or 10/12 (Indigenous Peoples' Day).