ToC Throwing Intensive

This 1-week, technique-focused course breaks down the foundations of wheel throwing into clear, focused lessons: centering, pulling, and shaping. Designed to build skill rather than produce finished work, this practice-based training is ideal for students looking to refine their technique and deepen their understanding of the throwing process.

The ToC Throwing Intensive runs every other month on the first and second Tuesday of the month. Between the two class sessions, students have access to the studio for one week to practice during designated student access hours.

Full Course Description:

This 1-week refresher course designed to help students with some wheel experience build a strong, repeatable foundation through structured skill development. This course is not intended for keeping pieces; rather, it offers a deep dive into the mechanics of throwing through guided repetition and refinement.

This course offers a comprehensive guide to each stage of the throwing process:

• Coning and Centering – Learn Tao of Clay’s step-by-step centering method, with a focus on posture, pressure, and timing.
  
• Pulling – Explore how to develop consistent wall height and evenness through intentional hand positioning and movement.
  
• Shaping – Work with shaping techniques that refine form, bring intention to your profile, and prepare you for more complex forms.
  

You’ll also be introduced to Tao of Clay’s mindfulness-based approach to throwing, helping you tune in to your body and the clay as you work. This course is ideal for students who have taken a wheel class before and want to refresh their skills, troubleshoot persistent challenges, or rebuild confidence at the wheel.

Level: Beginner - Intermediate

Prerequisite Note: Some prior throwing experience. 

Firing: The class fee covers the 2 classes as well as access to the studio during student hours for one week to practice outside of class time.  No work will be kept or fired in this course. The focus is on practice and technique development. Firing is not included in this class. Pieces can be fired at our standard studio rate of $5/lb. 

Studio Access:

As a student, you’ll have access to the studio outside of class hours to practice and develop your skills further!

Student Practice Open Hours:

Students enrolled in our 6-week courses are welcome to practice in the classroom during open studio hours when a class is not in session. Please note that the main studio space is reserved for members only and is not available for student practice. Refer to the calendar online to view scheduled classes.

*Please note: The studio is occasionally closed for events. Be sure to check Kiln Fire and our studio calendar online for any updates or closures affecting open hours.

We reserve the right to cancel the class due to low enrollment or for other necessary reasons.

Cancellation Policy:

Please note that all registrations are final, and we are unable to offer refunds for cancellations.

Missed Classes:

We do not offer refunds or make-up classes. If you need to miss a class, our staff will do their best to help you catch up during the next session or open studio hours.

Questions? Email info@taoofclay.com.