Pottery - Exploring Surface Design

Discover the magic of decorating pottery with this hands-on surface design class—no wheel required! Each week, students will explore a new decorative technique using pre-thrown pottery pieces provided by the instructor. Techniques include sgraffito, slip trailing, carving, resist, underglaze transfers, and various glazing methods. Whether you're new to ceramics or an experienced maker, this class offers a creative and low-pressure way to experiment, play, and create functional ceramic art. Students will be able to keep all of their creations (which will include cups, planters, bowls etc.) after they have been fully fired in the instructor's kiln. All materials and tools provided—just bring your imagination!

The Swan of Goose and Swan Pottery, Carly, is a self-taught ceramic artist, community workshop host and full-time mud enthusiast. Since falling headfirst into clay in early 2024, she’s been joyfully experimenting, teaching, and making messes alongside her husband (the Goose) in their home pottery studio in Exton. Carly has been teaching monthly hands-on pottery workshops since the start of this year at Nightingale Materials in the West Chester borough. Her classes are low-pressure, high-fun, and all about giving students the tools (+ a pre-thrown piece of pottery!) to create their own unique works of art. Think of her as providing the canvas and a few sparks of inspiration—then it's your turn to run wild with ideas. Everyone is welcome, whether you’re brand-new to clay or just looking to create something functional and/or decorative.