3-Day Beginner with Jeff Frey 18 - 20 March / 13 - 15 May / 15- 17 th July

Throwing on the Wheel.

Workshop Overview

This three-day beginner ceramics workshop offers a hands-on introduction to throwing on the potter’s wheel in a relaxed, supportive studio environment. Through demonstrations, guided practice, and individual instruction, students will learn essential wheel-throwing techniques while creating a small collection of functional ceramic pieces. No previous experience is required.

About the Instructor: Jeff Frey

Jeff is an American ceramic artist and educator whose practice is grounded in traditional craftsmanship and contemporary ceramic approaches. After nearly a decade of professional training, production, and teaching experience in Madrid, he brings a deep understanding of materials, process, and technique to his teaching.

He trained in ceramics at the Escuela de Arte Francisco Alcántara in Madrid, where he developed a strong foundation in wheel throwing, hand-building, surface decoration, glaze formulation, and kiln processes. Jeffrey has worked extensively as both a production ceramicist and instructor and is especially passionate about teaching beginners. His clear, patient, and hands-on approach helps students build confidence, develop strong technical foundations, and enjoy the ceramic process.

Daily Schedule

10:30 – 13:30 Morning session

13:30 – 14:30 Lunch break

14:30 – 17:30 Afternoon session

Course Content

Day 1 – Centering & Cylindrical Forms

The first day focuses on building strong foundations at the wheel. Students are introduced to tools, materials, and basic studio practices, with a strong emphasis on learning how to center the clay. Demonstrations are followed by extensive hands-on practice and individual guidance.

Topics include:

• Preparing and centering clay

• Wheel control and body positioning

• Opening the clay and pulling walls

• Creating simple cylindrical forms

Day 2 – Bowl Forms & Slip Decoration

On the second day, students build on the techniques learned on Day 1, shifting focus toward bowl forms and open forms. Through demonstrations and guided practice, students will explore shape and proportion.

Topics include:

• Refining centering and wall-pulling techniques

• Opening and shaping bowl forms

• Understanding balance and form

Day 3 – Trimming & Finishing

The final day is dedicated to trimming leather-hard pieces made during the first two days and an introduction to slip decoration techniques. Students will learn how trimming enhances both form and function and how to bring their work to a refined, finished state.

Topics include:

• Understanding clay stages and timing

• Centering pieces for trimming

• Using trimming tools safely and effectively

• Refining foot rings and overall form

• Introduction to slip decoration techniques for texture and pattern

• Selecting final pieces

What’s Included

• Unlimited clay for use during the course

• Use of all tools and materials

• Slip decoration materials

• Instruction, demonstrations, and individual guidance

• Glazing and firing of selected final pieces

• Shipping of finished work (see below)

Lunch is not included. The studio is located in the center of the village, close to a wide variety of cafés and restaurants offering options to suit all budgets and dietary requirements. A roof terrace is also available for students who prefer to bring their own lunch.

Shipping of finished work

The workshop fee includes shipping for one standard box per participant, based on the workshop level.

Included Box Sizes

Beginner workshops: One box up to 40 × 40 × 40 cm

At the end of the workshop, students will select their final pieces. These pieces will then be glazed, fired, carefully packed, and prepared for shipment. All selected work must fit within the included box size for the workshop level.

Shipping is limited to one box per participant.

FAQ

Do I need any prior experience?

No. This workshop is designed specifically for beginners.

What should I wear?

Comfortable clothes that can get dirty and closed-toe shoes.

How many pieces will I make?

The focus of this workshop is on learning technique and developing confidence at the wheel rather than producing a set number of pieces. Over the first two days, students will create multiple forms as part of the learning process. On the final day, each student will select and refine their strongest work, resulting in a small, thoughtfully finished collection.

When will I receive my finished work?

Finished pieces will be shipped once glazing and firing are complete.

Is this a fast-paced course?

The workshop is structured but relaxed, with plenty of demonstrations and individual support.

Cancellation Policy

Due to the limited number of places available and the advance costs involved (materials, firing, shipping, and instructor time), full payment is required to secure a place on the workshop.

Cancellations made 21 days or more before the workshop start date will receive a full refund.

Cancellations made within 21 days of the workshop start date are non-refundable.

In cases of illness or unforeseen circumstances, we may offer a credit toward a future workshop, subject to availability.

No refunds are given for no-shows or partial attendance.

We strongly recommend participants ensure they are able to attend all workshop dates before booking.

Additional Notes

Finished work is shipped once glazing and firing are complete.

We take great care in packing; however, we are not responsible for delays, damage, or loss once the work is with the courier.

Any customs duties or import taxes for non-EU destinations are the responsibility of the recipient.