Ceramics: Charms & Small Adornments
Adult Class | Available
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
Who This Class Is For:
Beginners and experienced ceramicists interested in creating small-scale ceramic charms. Questions about whether this class is right for you? Email adulteducation@fleisher.org.
Firing Schedule: All work should be placed on the bisque firing shelf by Friday, February 19, and on the glaze firing shelf by Friday, February 26 to guarantee it will be fired by the last week of classes. Students can continue to drop off work for glaze firing until Friday, March 8, however, finished work will be available for pick up during operational hours between terms, or the spring term. We will store unclaimed work for one term only. Questions about the firing schedule can be directed to Scott Cooper, Senior Studio Technician at scooper@fleisher.org.
All artwork, tools, and clay must be removed from Fleisher’s Ceramics Studio shelving by Monday, March 8, unless registered for a ceramics class during the upcoming Spring 2026 term. Please leave a note with on your shelf if you are returning in the spring to ensure your items are not removed.
Accessibility Note: This studio is accessible by elevator, but some auxiliary areas of the Ceramics Studio require stairs. For access needs or accommodations, contact adulteducation@fleisher.org.
Required Supplies:
- 12.5lbs of earthenware clay is included in your registration - no outside clay is permitted (prolific students may purchase additional clay from Fleisher)
- Basic hand building clay tools (loop tools, needle tool, carving tools)
- A set of miniature brushes
- X-acto knife
- Tweezers
- Apron or studio clothing
Optional:
- Jewelry supplies (3-8mm jump rings, chain clasps, chain)
- Small needle-nose pliers
- Additional high temperature nickle-chrome wire
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Justin Fargiano
Justin Fargiano is an artist, filmmaker, and animator currently living in Philadelphia, PA.
https://www.jfarge.com/