Beginner Ceramics with Phillip Strauss | 6 Week Class

Held at The Art Center's public studio in Orange, the class introduces the fundamentals of making ceramics on the potter’s wheel in a shared studio environment.

Students will learn essential wheel-throwing skills, including centering, pulling walls, trimming, and forming functional forms. Instruction also covers studio practices such as recycling and reclaiming clay, helping students understand the full lifecycle of the material. The class includes an introduction to glazing, with a focus on glaze application and layering techniques. By the end of the session, students will have several finished pieces and a strong foundation for continued work in a public ceramics studio.

What to Expect

Students will work in a communal studio setting and learn proper studio etiquette, cleanup procedures, and safe use of tools. Class time will include demonstrations, guided practice, and individual instruction. Expect to get messy—clothes that can get dirty are recommended.

What to Bring

The studio provides some shared tools; however, having your own tools will ensure you always have what you need during class.

Required tools:

 Throwing sponge

 Wooden rib

 Rubber rib

 Needle tool

 Wire cutter

 Trimming tools

A beginner pottery tool kit from the Arts Center can be purchased ahead of class and includes most of these items.