Back to All Events

Monday morning wheel throwing for beginners – with Cath Smith

  • Stella's Art Gallery 38033 Euclid Avenue Willoughby, OH, 44094 United States (map)

Monday Mornings 10 AM - 12 Noon

6-Week Course
Session length: 2 hours
Class size: Max 3 students
Price: $225 per person

If you’ve ever wanted to try wheel throwing but felt a bit intimidated, this is the class for you. We keep things small, relaxed, and genuinely supportive — no pressure, no rushing, just you, the wheel, and some very forgiving clay.

Over six weeks, each session gently builds your skills. You’ll learn the whole process step by step: how to prepare your clay so it behaves, how to center and shape your first forms, what the different drying stages mean (and how not to panic when things wobble), how to trim with confidence, and how glazing brings everything to life.

With a maximum of three students per class, you can bring a friend or family member to learn alongside you, or just enjoy the calm, personal attention without that ‘everyone is staring at my wobbly pot’ feeling.  

What we’ll cover:

  • Preparing clay so it works with you

  • Centering and shaping your first bowls and cylinders

  • Understanding drying stages and successful trimming

  • Reclaiming clay and working smoothly in a shared studio

  • Glazing basics and the final firing process

This course is perfect for complete beginners or anyone returning to the wheel who wants gentle guidance and clear instruction. All materials and firing are included.

By the end, you’ll have several finished pieces — and, more importantly, the confidence to keep going on your pottery journey.

About the Teacher:

Cath Smith is a local ceramic artist who believes pottery should feel grounding, joyful, and a little bit magical. She teaches with warmth, patience, and plenty of encouragement — and she’s known for celebrating the “beautifully imperfect” first attempts that every potter makes. Her goal is simple: help you relax, learn the foundations well, and enjoy the process of making something with your hands.  She can be found online at @cathsmithceramics and @theteaonpottery

Previous
Previous
December 12

Meet the Makers at Stella’s Holiday Maker’s Market

Next
Next
January 12

Monday afternoon wheel throwing for beginners – with Cath Smith