Plate by Sam O’Brien

Embellish: All Levels Wheel & Surface
Instructor: Sam O’Brien
Wed. 9:30-11:30am
Jan 15th-March 19th
$425 (Does not include clay)

Embark on a creative journey in our “Handmade Pots” class where you'll immerse yourself in the art of wheel throwing. Led by our dedicated instructor, Sam, this course is perfect for beginners or those continuing with wheel throwing.

We’ll cover the foundational techniques of throwing, and glazing. In addition, Sam will also guide folks in adding three-dimensional embellishments and instruct in how to use underglaze, underglaze pencils, and water erosion as surface development techniques.

Eligibility: All Levels Welcome! You must be 15+ years of age to participate. This class is a great fit for those wanting to try clay for the first time or 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 $15. This is a separate purchase from your class fee. Purchase clay HERE and we will have it ready on your first class. RCC will have limited underglaze/ underglaze pencils for trying out these techniques. You will need to supplement with your own. We suggest AMACO Velvet Underglaze or AMACO Underglaze Pencils. These can often be purchased locally or online.

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 SPS or CAC. Or here is another option on Amazon. The class fee includes all glazing materials, firings, and generous open-studio access for practice time. All levels welcome - come join the fun!

About the Instructor:
Instructor: Sam O’Brien (he/they)

Sam O’Brien is a queer potter, born and raised in Richmond, Virginia. He graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with a BFA in craft and material studies. Sam is passionate about the ways in which ceramic education can be utilized as a tool for building community and practicing self-expression. They look forward to connecting with you this winter at Rain City Clay!

Class refund policy:

Cancellations must be made via email to info@raincityclay.com
If you want to cancel your class, you may request a refund based on the bullet points below. Then you may rebook yourself for a class that fits better into your schedule. Last-minute cancellations in classes are difficult to fill - please double-check your schedule before committing to an event. Refunds take several business days to process from the date we receive the email request.

  • 100% of tuition (less a $15 processing fee) will be refunded if a student elects to drop a class no later than ten days (10 days) before the first class meeting.

  • 80% of tuition (less a $15 processing fee) will be refunded if a student drops a class within 7 business days before the first class meeting.

  • 50% of tuition (less a $15 processing fee) will be refunded if a student drops a class within 3 business days before the first class meeting.

  • 0% of tuition is refunded if cancellation is made within two days of class for any reason except for documented medical emergencies. (providing a doctor's note). There are no other exceptions to this policy.

  • No refunds or credit will be given for missed classes. Students currently enrolled in 10-week classes may practice during open studio time to build skills even if a class is missed. One-day clay events and lessons do not come with open studio time.

  • We reserve the right to cancel a class or workshop up to 3 days in advance of the first class due to insufficient enrollment. If a class is canceled, you will be offered the option of another class or a full refund.