This workshop run by Jane McCulla will explore how to create an interesting clay surface by adding texture, applying slip, adding china clay, or stretching the clay slab before handbuilding.

Following a demonstration by Jane, participants will be guided through their personal exploration of these techniques.

Jane will then demonstrate how she constructs her textured, stretched clay slab forms, showing techniques on how to work with an already decorated surface when handbuilding. She will also show participants how to use templates, and encourage them to handbuild with clay slabs using this technique.

Tips on how to construct a clay form using templates with an already decorated or manipulated clay surface will be also demonstrated.

If possible, participants should bring the following: a basic pottery tool kit (sponge, cutting wire, wooden knife, wooden shark fin rib, steel rib, needle tool and trimming tools), texture sprigs or clay stamps, wooden modelling tool, serrated metal kidney, rubber kidney tool, batt or board to hand build form on, banding wheel (optional) and, if possible, a brush to apply slip.

Bisque firing of finished pieces can be arranged for an additional cost. Details will be available at the workshop.