Handbuilding Workshops
No wheel, no rush — just your hands, some tools, and a few hours to slow down and make something from clay.
Our handbuilding workshops are all about connecting with the material — learning how to shape and build with clay using simple, traditional techniques.
You’ll be shown how to pinch, coil, or slab build — then you’ll have time to make your own piece. Whether that’s a mug, planter, wall vase or something totally unexpected is up to you.
🔥 Firing & Finishing
Once you’ve built your piece, we’ll carefully dry, glaze, and fire it in the studio.
Each piece will be glazed by us in a colour of your choice and fired in our kiln to create a finished, functional object.
Firing usually takes 2–3 weeks, and we’ll contact you when it’s ready to collect.
Postage is available if needed.
More details →
All workshops are by pre-booking only
Max group size: 8 people
Suitable for adults and young people aged 12+ (under 16s must be accompanied by an adult)
Private bookings available — click here to enquire
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❓FAQ –
What to Expect from a Hand-building Workshop
Q - What will I make?
It’s completely up to you. We’ll introduce a few handbuilding techniques — slab, pinch, and coil — and offer examples like mugs, vases, plant pots, or wall pieces. From there, you can take your ideas in any direction. Expect to make between 2–4 pieces.
Q - Do I need any experience?
Not at all. Our workshops are beginner-friendly and perfect for curious creatives. We guide you through each step and offer help as you shape, smooth, and refine your work.
Q - Is this suitable for children?
Our workshops are designed for adults and older teens. For group or family sessions with younger children, please contact us — we may be able to tailor a session for you.
Q - What should I wear?
Something comfy that you don’t mind getting a little clay on. Aprons are provided. We also recommend short nails — especially for detail work!
Q - What happens to my work afterwards?
We’ll carefully dry, fire, and glaze your pieces in a colour of your choice. This process takes time — expect a 3–4 week turnaround. You’ll be notified when your work is ready to collect. UK postage is available if needed.
Q - Can I book a private group session?
Yes! We host handbuilding sessions for birthdays, team days, creative socials, or just because. You can bring snacks or drinks — or ask us about barista service for your group. Email us to check availability and options.
Q- What is reclaimed clay?
Reclaimed clay (or recycled clay) is clay that’s been used, trimmed, collapsed, or left to dry out — then rehydrated, kneaded, and brought back to life by hand.
At Rock Garden, we collect every bit of leftover clay from our workshops and studio production and give it a second chance. Many of the pots you paint or handbuild with are made from 100% reclaimed clay — part of our commitment to making sustainably and wasting nothing. ♻️