Specialist Course

Introduction to slab built ceramics

8th May - 26th June 2026 | Fridays
9:30am - 12:30pm | Bekky May

Join ceramic artist Bekky for an inspiring 8-week introduction to slab building. Perfect for beginners, this hands-on course will guide you through the basic principles of slab work, including use of tools and making up slip.

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WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

About the Course

Over the 8 weeks, students will develop a collection of functional pieces that can be used in the home, such as pieces of a breakfast set (toast rack, butter dish, cereal bowl etc) as well as a bathroom collection (soap dish, toothbrush holder etc).

You will also work on sculptural projects during the course, with the use of props that the tutor will encourage students to bring in from their recycling box at home. You will also experiment with textures and imprinting details onto the slabs, using things such as leaves and lace textiles, amongst other things.

These varied sessions will give students a range of skills that they can explore further in future, knowing that they have a solid base to build upon.

KEY INFORMATION

About the course

  • Every Friday morning, starting Friday 8th May (8 week course)

  • Maximum 12 students

  • Suitable for all levels, beginners welcome

  • £316 (£39.50 per session)

    Please note, there will be a small additional firing charge for final pieces. Please see our Student Contract (below) for details.

    All materials and tools are provided, as are refreshments. Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come basis.

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Tutor Bio

Bekky May

Over the past twenty years, Bekky has developed her ceramic skills through a varied practice. Initially she worked with slabs to construct both functional and sculptural pieces. Over the last ten years however she has developed a slip-casting process whereby she instinctively sculpts from a solid piece of clay to create plaster moulds and casts with hues of coloured porcelain slip. Discovering the concept of Biophilia while doing her Masters, which relates to our intrinsic connection with the natural world, she began creating asymmetrical vessels, as found in nature. With a past career as a landscape gardener, Bekky has always enjoyed getting her hands in the earth.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • You should wear comfortable clothes which you don’t mind getting a bit of clay on! Layers can be a good idea as temperatures can be a little variable. All students should wear comfortable, flat shoes with non-slip soles and covered toes, and bring an apron/cover-up. Long hair should be tied back for wheel work. We also recommend that jewellery, watches and other valuables are left at home.

  • Yes. Within all of our termly classes we include a tea break which includes a lovely selection of coffee, teas and cakes.

  • You will not need to bring any tools as we have everything you need at the studio. You are, however, welcome to bring your own tools if you prefer to use them.

  • There is a small firing charge for termly students of £4 per 500g of glazed work and £5 for work with oxide. Please note that from 27th February 2023 this will increase to £5 per 500g and £6 for work with oxide.

    Any work that is over 30cm in width or length will be charged at double the cost.