Tao of Clay
Sgraffito with Sarah Anderson
Sgraffito with Sarah Anderson
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Friday, May 29th, 2026 | 1-Day Workshop | 4:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Join us at Tao of Clay for a hands-on sgraffito surface design workshop with ceramic artist Sarah Anderson. In this 4-hour session, participants will explore carving techniques on porcelain test tiles and, if time allows, apply those techniques to their own functional vessels.
This workshop is designed for makers of all levels who are interested in developing illustrative surface design on clay. Sarah will guide students through the full sgraffito process, from preparing surfaces with underglaze to carving and developing layered imagery.
Students will learn how to approach surface decoration through the lens of pattern, movement, line work, and character design, while also gaining a deeper understanding of timing, moisture control, and material choices.
Participants are encouraged to bring their own leather hard pieces to carve on, allowing them to leave with a finished, personalized work.
Level: Beginner – Advanced
Prerequisite: No prior experience required. Open to all skill levels.
Workshop Includes
- Carving tools provided by the instructor
- Underglazes for surface design
- Porcelain test tiles for practice
Students are encouraged to bring their own leather hard vessels for carving.
Schedule
4:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Introduction, preparing test tiles with underglaze, and prepping student pieces. Discussion on clay consistency at different moisture stages.
5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Surface design concepts including pattern, movement, and line. Demonstration of image development and transfer techniques. Begin practicing carving on test tiles.
6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Transferring designs onto tiles and vessels. Carving techniques in depth, including positive and negative space, layering, and adding secondary color for depth.
Topics Covered
- Sgraffito carving techniques
- Underglaze application and timing
- Surface design principles (pattern, line, movement)
- Image transfer methods
- Working with leather hard clay
- Positive vs negative space in carving
- Layering color for depth
- Developing a personal visual language
Tools
All carving tools and underglazes will be provided. Students may bring additional personal tools if preferred.
Firing
Firing one 5" x 5" tile, provided by Tao of Clay, is covered in the workshop fee. Additional firing is not included in the registration fee. Students may coordinate firing through Tao of Clay or take their work with them. Firing pricing is $5/lb at Tao of Clay.
Studio Access
This workshop includes access to the studio only during scheduled workshop hours.
About Sarah Anderson
Sarah Anderson is a full-time ceramic artist known for her illustrative sgraffito work, featuring bold colors and expressive, character-driven imagery. She received her degree in sculpture from Ball State University and previously served as the Ceramics Department Chair at the Indianapolis Art Center.
Her work has been exhibited nationally and has received awards including Best Teapot at the Strictly Functional Pottery National. Sarah has been featured in publications such as Ceramics Monthly and Indianapolis Monthly, and has taught workshops at over 100 locations across the United States.
She is the co-founder of Mobile Makers, a community for nomadic artists, and will be opening Dusty Pants Studio in 2026 with fellow artist Austin Coudriet.
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final and non-refundable. No refunds will be given for cancellations made at any time. Please consider this policy before purchasing a ticket.
Missed Class Policy
We do not offer refunds, prorated refunds, or make-up sessions for missed workshop days or times.
Age Requirement
Ages 18 +
(Ages 16–18 may participate with prior approval. Please contact info@taoofclay.com.)
Please contact info@taoofclay.com with any questions.
