Handbuilding: All Levels

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Handbuilding: All Levels

$485.00

Instructor: Irene Nelson
Dates: June 16th-August 18th, 2026
Time: Tuesdays 11am-2pm
Fees: $485 (does not include tools, clay, or sales tax)

Get a jump start on spring in this all-levels handbuilding class with Irene Nelson! This handbuilding class explores how surface can move beyond decoration and become an integral part of the form itself. Through projects like slab-built wall pieces, coil-built vessels, and small sculptural studies, students will learn how to add dimension, texture, and sculptural elements that enhance both function and visual impact. We’ll focus on practical skills like moisture management, attachment strategies, weight distribution, and greenware repair to support more ambitious forms. Along the way, we’ll look at how functional pots can hold both use and expression—bridging the space between utility and sculpture. Open to all levels, this class encourages experimentation while building strong, reliable construction skills.

Quantity:
16 available
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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 Heather Luedke (she/her):



Prepare for Class

  • Full information on how to prepare for classes is available on our Clay Q&A Platform (Links below).

  • Tools: These are included in Youth Classes

  • Clay: These are included in Youth Classes

  • Studio Access: Youth do not receive practice time outside of class at Rain City Clay

  • 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.