SayPro Day 1: Pottery Introduction and Basic Techniques

SayPro Pottery Workshop – Day 1: Pottery Introduction and Basic Techniques

1. Introduction to Pottery

Objective:

To provide participants with a foundational understanding of pottery as both an art form and a functional craft.

Topics Covered:

History and Evolution:
Overview of pottery’s history from ancient civilizations to modern ceramics. Emphasis on cultural significance and artistic expression.

Types of Pottery:
Introduction to earthenware, stoneware, and porcelain – their properties, firing temperatures, and typical uses.

Pottery in Contemporary Use:
From utilitarian wares to sculptural ceramics – exploring the relevance and applications of pottery in modern art and daily life.

2. Introduction to Pottery Tools and Materials

Objective:

To familiarize participants with the essential tools and raw materials used in pottery.

Materials Introduced:

Clay Types:

Earthenware
Stoneware
Porcelain
Explanation of each type’s texture, plasticity, and firing requirements.

Essential Tools:

Wire clay cutter
Wooden modeling tools
Ribs and scrapers
Loop tools
Needle tool
Sponge
Rolling pin or slab roller

Workstation Setup:
Importance of clean, organized workspaces; managing clay dust and materials responsibly.

3. Basic Hand-Building Techniques

Objective:

To introduce participants to foundational clay forming methods that require no pottery wheel.

Techniques Practiced:

a. Pinch Pots

Process:

Start with a ball of clay.
Use thumb to press a central indent.
Pinch walls evenly using fingers and thumb.
Learning Focus:
Wall thickness, symmetry, smoothing techniques.

b. Coil Building

Process:

Roll clay into even coils.
Stack and blend coils to build forms.
Applications:
Great for creating bowls, vases, and sculptures.
Learning Focus:
Joining coils properly, preventing cracks, using slip for bonding.

Demonstration and Practice Time:

Hands-on guidance and one-on-one support as participants attempt both techniques.

4. Introduction to Glazing and Decoration Methods

Objective:

To give participants an overview of how pottery is finished and decorated.

Topics Covered:

Glazing Overview:
What is glaze? Purpose of glazing – waterproofing and aesthetic finish.

Basic Techniques:

Dipping
Brushing
Pouring
Sponging

Decoration Before Firing:

Incising or carving
Impressing (using stamps or textures)
Slip trailing (applying liquid clay for texture/design)
Underglazing (using colored slips)

Safety Note:

Proper handling of glaze materials (many contain chemicals) and ensuring appropriate ventilation.

5. Safety and Maintenance of Pottery Equipment

Objective:

To ensure safe use of tools and long-term maintenance of equipment.

Safety Topics:

Clay Dust Management:
Importance of wet cleaning over sweeping to avoid inhaling silica.
Tool Safety:
Handling sharp tools like wire cutters and trimming tools safely.
Glaze Safety:
Using gloves and masks where necessary; clearly labeling all containers.

Maintenance Tips:

Clean tools after each use.
Store clay in airtight containers to maintain moisture.
Regular checks and cleaning for kilns and workspaces.

Wrap-Up and Q\&A

Review of the day’s concepts.
Open floor for questions and discussion.
Brief overview of Day 2: Wheel Throwing Basics and Clay Preparation.

Homework/Practice:

Continue practicing pinch and coil pots at home.
Sketch a basic design for a small bowl or vase to be built tomorrow.

Let me know if you’d like this formatted as a handout, schedule, or slide deck!