4-Week Wheel Throwing Course at Restalgic Atelier

At Restalgic Atelier, we believe clay has the power to ground, inspire, and connect. This 4-week hands-on course, led by ceramic artist Nathan Johnson, will guide you through the foundations of wheel throwing while encouraging you to discover your own creative voice.

With support from owner Nathan and the Restalgic community, you’ll find both the structure and freedom you need to grow in your ceramic journey.

What You’ll Learn:

Over the course of 4 weeks, you’ll explore the fundamentals of working with clay, building confidence at the wheel step by step:

Week 1 – The Basics

• Introduction to clay preparation and wedging

• Learning to center, open, and pull clay

• Creating simple clay pots and beginning wheel-thrown cylinders

Week 2 – Building Forms

• Refining wheel techniques for cylinders and functional vessels

• Gaining control over shaping and structure

• Developing awareness of clay’s stages and how to work with them

Week 3 – Expanding Your Skills

• Trimming, shaping, and altering your forms

• Introduction to handbuilding methods, including coils and slabs

• Surface design, texture, and decorative approaches

Week 4 – Glazing & Finishing

• Exploring glaze application and surface finishes

• Reflection on progress and personal style

• Preparing pieces for bisque and glaze firing

• Guidance on next steps, including studio membership opportunities at Restalgic

What’s Included:

✔️ Instruction from ceramic artist Nathan Johnson
✔️ Access to studio equipment during and after class time
✔️ Firing and glazing services
✔️ A supportive, creative community environment

What You’ll Need:

• Clay (available for purchase at the studio)

• Basic pottery tool kit (needle tool, loop tools, sponge, wire cutter, fettling knife). Additional helpful tools like calipers and ribs are recommended. Tool kits are available in our studio store.

Who Can Join:

This course is designed for beginners and those with limited experience who want to build a strong foundation in ceramics. Ages 12+ are welcome.

Parking & Location:

Classes are hosted at Restalgic Atelier. You may park behind the store in the Nicholas Parking Garage and use the entrance door that leads directly into our hallway, or take advantage of convenient off-street parking nearby.

By the end of this 4-week course, you’ll not only understand the core processes of wheel throwing but also leave inspired, confident, and ready to continue your ceramic journey.