One of the things I hear when talking about ceramics is that hand building isn't as exciting as wheel throwing. I do not agree! Likely, you were never given the right tools to make it exciting. 

Ceramics as a medium is a big favorite around Kate's Art School, I have far more people creating hand built pieces than wheel thrown and it's because we have so many great tools here in the studio. Most of them can be found at home already, some in the garage, others outside, or even purchased very economically. Manilla folders can make great templates if you don't want to purchase laminated ones. Rolling pins, cookie cutters, and sharp pointed objects, all the things you need to cut clay, can be found in any kitchen or bought second hand. Many, many household items can be used to create textures, think rubber stamps, old rope, carpet squares, small toys or kitchen utensils. Great texture items can be found outdoors: ferns, flowers, pinecones, grasses and leaves are all wonderful for platters, bowls, and vessels of all kinds. Thats not even mentioning the amazing tools found on our hands: our fingers. When creating hand built items remember that glazes pool differently when texture is used and can give your pieces huge amounts of visual interest. 

Our next clay class is Functional Ceramics starting in September, reserve your spot today by clicking here.