Bobbles & Bangles: Handbuilding

Instructor: Jade Ariah
Dates: January 5th-March 16th, 2026
Time: Mondays 7:30-9:30pm
Fees: $485 (does not include tools, clay, or sales tax)

Discover the art of ceramic jewelry in this all-levels class, where small-scale clay meets big creativity. Participants will explore techniques for making wearable pieces using nichrome or kanthal wire, experimenting with texture, impressions, slips, and underglazes to bring vibrant color and detail to their designs. Think of each piece as a miniature canvas—perfect for playful form and color studies in clay. Whether you’re drawn to delicate pendants, bold statement pieces, or tiny treasures, this class will guide you in transforming clay into decorative wearables full of personality.

All Levels 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.

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 Jade Ariah (she/her):
Jade Ariah is a conceptual ceramic sculptor, painter and textile artist. Her current body of work is inspired by memories associated with celebrating, cooking and eating. Through illustration, quiltmaking and ceramic sculpture, she investigates the culture and storytelling of family through food and everyday objects. She has exhibited her work regionally and in both statewide and nationally curated exhibitions.

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.

• Special Materials: Participants are responsible for acquiring their own jewelry findings
  (Kanthal Wire)

• 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

• Join Clay Q&A Here.

• 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.