Fire, Slip, Tea: Stoneware Tea Ware Masterclass
Stoneware Throwing & Slip Decoration. Three-Day Intensive Masterclass
Hempmill Pottery & Cookery School, Friday 31st July – Sunday 2nd August 2026
£595
Friday - Welcome, Introduction & Throwing
Morning Session | 10:00 – 1:00
Talk: Stoneware and Tea Culture
Throwing: teacups & saucers
Afternoon Session | 1:45 – 4:30
Throwing: tea bowls & functional forms for tea service
Optional extra | 4:30 – 6:00
Unguided finishing or practice
Saturday - Throwing & Turning
Morning Session | 10:00 – 1:00
Demonstration: Tea pots & pouring forms
Afternoon Session | 1:45 – 4:30
Turning/ throwing: Lids, handles and spouts
Optional extra | 4:30 – 6:00
Unguided finishing or practice
Sunday – Slip Decoration & Finishing
Morning Session | 10:00 – 1:00
Talk: Brushes and slip techniques
Slip decoration: Tea wares
Afternoon Session | 1:45 – 4:30
Finishing & detailing tea wares
Please note, the content of this masterclass will vary according to the skill level and individual needs of the participants. The above schedule is an approximate guide.
Daily Schedule
9:45 – Arrival
10:00 – Workshop begins
11:30 – Morning break (coffee & biscuits)
1:00 – Lunch (no pudding, coffee only)
4:30 – Official finish (tea & delayed pudding)
4:30 – Optional unguided session (Friday & Saturday only)
6:00 – Departure (5:00 Sunday)
Course Requirements
To attend this course, you should be able to center a 500g ball of clay confidently and throw a 6-inch cylinder quickly and with control. This ensures participants can gain the most from the masterclass.
Please bring your own pottery tools, apron or overalls, and a throwing towel.
You are welcome to bring your own batts if you would like. We have pinned wheelheads.
Please wear comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear suitable for a pottery studio.
Course Content
This hands-on masterclass is designed for potters who want to learn or deepen their stoneware throwing and slip decoration skills, focusing on traditional and contemporary tea wares. The course includes demonstrations, talks, group sessions, and tailored one-on-one guidance for all levels.
Studio Set Up & Firing
Only six students per class; each student has their own wheel and workspace.
All materials included. Notes and worksheets provided.
Taking Work Home
You are welcome to take any finished greenware home to fire yourself. If you plan to do this, please bring ware boards, packing boxes, bags, and wrapping to transport your work safely.
If you would like us to bisque, glaze, and fire your work, this can be arranged at our standard firing rates.
Finished pots can be picked up from Hempmill or shipped by courier at market rate.
Catering & Access
A delicious two-course lunch is provided each day, along with plenty of tea, coffee, and homemade biscuits. Please let us know of any allergies or dietary requirements at the time of booking.
If you have any accessibility requirements, please inform us prior to booking so we can ensure a comfortable and inclusive experience.
Accommodation
Please email us for recommendations for local accommodation; there are some great local pubs with rooms and Air B&Bs, as well as chain hotels in nearby Stoke-on-Trent and Shrewsbury. Camping onsite may be booked by prior arrangement, subject to availability.
Social Media
We kindly ask participants to be mindful when posting on social media during pottery masterclasses. Please avoid sharing any content that could compromise the privacy of others including tutors, staff and fellow students. Please do not film or record demonstrations or lectures without permission; notes will be provided. If in doubt, please ask before posting.
By respecting these guidelines, you help maintain a safe and welcoming environment for everyone involved. See out Terms & Conditions for more details.