In a bid to try more new things this year and turn our hand to some different hobbies, we recently found our way to Brixton and Earthworks Ceramics Studio for one of its beginner taster classes.
Earthworks aims to provide a creative and inclusive space for beginners and ceramic enthusiasts to learn, create, and collaborate. Tucked away a minute's walk from the station, Earthworks Ceramic Studio is a peaceful hub where creativity thrives. The offer open access memberships that grant individuals of all skill levels the opportunity to use the facilities, equipment, and resources to explore the world of ceramics, whether you just fancy an afternoon trying something new or a course to really hone your skills.
How hard can it be, right? Turns out, harder than it looks.
We've always loved the idea of a pottery class so signed up for a taster, three hours on a Sunday afternoon to discover wheel throwing at Level 0 - their entry level perfect for absolute beginners, anyone returning after a long break, or those who just want some extra practice. The class is designed to show you the core foundations of throwing: preparing your clay, centering, and shaping a simple form on the wheel, guided by expert instructors. Our top tip? Wear something old or that you don't mind getting covered in clay - it gets messy!
We were guided through how to handle the clay, ensuring it's kept wet so it doesn't break, 'centering' it - making it more workable - and beginning to learn how to shape it into a bowl. After three broken attempts, we finally got it and fashioned something vaguely bowl like... The second half of the class followed, with a tutorial on how to make a cylinder shape and practice upon practice until we nailed it, finally creating a little espresso-type cup after more than a few attempts!
At the end of each taster class, everyone selects their favourite piece to have glazed - selecting from four of the studio's popular colours - before cleaning down equipment and station. Pieces are then finished by the experts (thank goodness...) before being glazed ready to collect in a couple of weeks' time. Our just arrived in the post - an adorable little espresso cup, glazed in a matt white, ready for our morning coffee.
It's fantastic fun, despite our *ahem* lack of skill (others were, undoubtedly, far more successfull...) and a great way to try something new and creative. Taster classes are £55 for two hours or £65 for three, while six week courses - running in a morning and an evening version - offer 15 hours of tuition for £250.
Arch 44 & 45
Nursery Road
Brixton
London
SW9 8BP
