RCC Clay classes, workshops, & more!
Read our registration policies, refunds, and other conditions before registering.
Clay classes require some physical strength. Consider a one-time event if you are uncertain of your ability to participate.
Fall Session Dates: September 12th - November 19th, 2026
Winter Session Dates: January 10th - March 18th, 2027
Registration opens October 7th at 2:00pm for current participants
Registration opens to everyone October 9th at 2:00pm ( We will send a newsletter )Scholarships for session classes
Is the class you want FULL? Check first & then Add your name to the waitlist HERE
Ten-week classes include generous practice hours outside of class. One-day classes are a great way to see what clay is all about and do not come with practice time outside of class.
Projects are limited to 15” in any direction. We encourage consistent attendance—there are no make-up classes. However, you may use your practice time to connect with classmates and instructors to build on what you have learned.
All sessional class participants use Clay Q&A, our online communication hub, for kiln schedules, asking questions, studio events, deadlines, and resources.
Level of Instruction:
Level One
A welcoming introduction to clay, with a focus on foundational throwing or handbuilding techniques. Demonstrations and projects are designed for beginners and those developing or building on new skills. We recommend taking Level One 2–4 times before moving into Level Two as you build confidence and a strong foundation.
Level Two
For students ready to build on foundational skills. Classes focus on developing the throwing or handbuilding skills needed to make forms up to 5" tall. Repeating Level Two classes is encouraged as you continue to develop control and consistency.
Level Three
For students with established intermediate clay skills. This level is a good fit after multiple Level One and Level Two classes. Projects may explore replication, larger forms, more demanding techniques, and intentional surface development. Level Three embraces increased complexity and scale, with skills that support making forms up to 8" tall.
Use the drop down boxes below to narrow in on a class that works for you!
Search by Length of Class
Paper Clay Sculpture - Cabinet of Curiosities
Paper Clay Sculpture - Cabinet of Curiosities
Instructor: Kyle Reynolds
Dates: Sept 16th-Nov 18th
Time: Wednesdays, 10:00am-1:00pm
Fees: $485 (does not include tools, clay, or sales tax)
Instruction: Level 2
Bring your stories to life through imaginative sculpture and narrative form. Using paper clay—a lightweight ceramic material reinforced with paper fibers—you'll create either an animal sculpture or a human bust that becomes a vessel for storytelling.
Inspired by historical cabinets of curiosity, your piece will feature hidden compartments, secret drawers, small objects, and unexpected details that encourage viewers to look closer and discover layers of meaning. Through handbuilding, sculpting, and creative problem-solving, you'll explore how form, symbolism, and hidden elements can work together to tell a personal, fictional, or symbolic story.
Some clay handbuilding experience is helpful, as students should be comfortable with basic clay construction techniques. This workshop is ideal for makers interested in sculpture, narrative, mixed-media thinking, and pushing their clay work beyond functional forms.
Throughout the class, Kyle will guide students through the complete creative process, from developing concepts and planning compositions to building, hollowing, mounting, and finishing their work. Along the way, students will learn practical strategies for solving sculptural challenges and bringing ambitious ideas to completion.
Rather than focusing on glaze, this course explores alternative surface treatments including oxides, underglazes, and layered cold finishes applied after firing. Sculptures will be single-fired to Cone 2, creating a durable yet porous surface ideal for post-firing color and patina. Through demonstrations, feedback, and group discussion, students will develop both technical skills and a deeper understanding of narrative in ceramic sculpture.
All Levels are welcome. You must be 15+ years of age to participate. This class is a great fit for those wanting to grow their skills with an instructor present to ask questions. There is a 15” maximum size, in any direction, when creating with clay at RCC.
Materials: Clay is $40 for new clay or at times we have recycled clay for sale for $20. This is a separate purchase from your class fee. Purchase clay ahead of time HERE.
Bring an apron, comfy clothes, a quart-sized container (like a yogurt container), and a beginner's set of tools to the first class.
Special Materials:
- Water spray bottle
- Suggested: prior to Class 1, gather a 'vision board' of images with the particular aesthetics you're drawn to
Special Finishes:
Choose 1 or 2 types of media on the list. Not needed for Class 1.
- Underglazes (suggested 2-3 colors) & raw carbonates or oxides
- Watercolor, gouache & acrylic paints
- Clear matte ModPodge & collaging materials
Tool kits are available for purchase online or at Seattle Pottery Supply or Clay Art Center. Or here is another option on Amazon. The class fee includes all glazing materials, firings, and generous open-studio access for practice time.
About Kyle Reynolds (she/her):
Born in upstate New York, Kyle Reynolds is an emerging Seattle-based sculptor working primarily in porcelain and mixed media. Her work has won numerous awards, been featured in gallery exhibitions and art fairs, and acquired in private collections. She is a member of Washington Clay Arts Association and was selected for the 2025-2029 Washington State Arts Commission Public Arts Roster, the 2024-2026 Seattle Office of Arts & Culture Public Art Roster, and for a 2025 PLAYA Arts & Sciences awarded residency.
Artist Statement
My work explores allegorical narratives of human nature inspired by the Aesop’s Fables and Grimm’s Fairytales that fascinated me in my childhood. Their bizarre metaphoric warnings of consequence and moral conscience became the language through which I process philosophical issues, in my own surrealistic interpretation.
Prepare for Class
Full information on how to prepare for classes is available on our Clay Q&A Platform (Links below).
Tools: Suggested tools are in the image on this class page.
Clay: Purchase clay separately through our communication platform (Links below)
Studio Access: Weekly Classes come with access to studio practice hours.
FAQ’s about classes: https://raincityclay.com/education-faq
RCC Communication Platform
Our studio communication platform, The Clay Q&A “Space”, is hosted on the Mighty Networks App.
Participation is required to take classes at RCC or have a membership at RCS.
Clay Q&A is essential to participants. It is where participants may:
Buy Clay
Schedule practice time
Learn about kiln deadlines/ kiln unloadings
Hear studio news & events
Learn more/ download the More about the Mighty Networks App, or text the Mighty Network App to your Phone.
This app can be used on a desktop or mobile device. This app is essential for purchasing clay during the session, scheduling practice hours, and keeping up to date with studio deadlines for kilns and finishing your art projects at RCC.
Studio Policies and Information
Registration Policies: Information on being prepared for class, refunds, and more.
Hold Harmless Agreement: View what you agree to when registering for a class.
Code of Conduct: Expectations of studio conduct for students, staff, and instructors, as well as ways to give feedback anonymously.