Rustic Salad Servers & Spoon Rests

In this workshop, we’re stepping away from the wheel and exploring the versatility of slab building to create a beautiful and functional set of handmade kitchen utensils.

You’ll learn how to transform simple slabs of clay into rustic salad servers and a matching spoon rest — pieces that are practical, full of personality and designed to be used every day.

We’ll begin with the foundations of slab building, including how to roll even slabs, use thickness guides and properly compress the clay to help minimise warping and cracking. From there, you’ll learn how to design, cut and refine your pieces before shaping them into comfortable, functional forms.

We’ll look at how small design choices can completely change the character of your work, from the curve of a handle and shape of a utensil to the texture of the surface. You’ll also explore ways to create symmetry, refine edges and gently shape the clay while maintaining its strength.

Surface decoration is another big part of this workshop. You’ll have the opportunity to experiment with doilies, leaves, fabrics, stamps, carving tools and found objects, creating textures and patterns that make your pieces uniquely yours.

Alongside the salad servers, you’ll create a matching spoon rest, learning how to form a shallow cradle that comfortably holds your utensil while keeping the overall set cohesive.

This workshop is all about slowing down, enjoying the process and creating something useful. You’ll finish with a handmade set that brings together function, form and your own personal style.

What you'll learn

• How to prepare clay for slab building
• How to roll even slabs using thickness guides
• Why compressing slabs helps minimise warping and cracking
• How to design and cut your own utensil shapes
• How to refine edges and create balanced, symmetrical forms
• How to shape comfortable handles and functional curves
• How to create and shape the bowl or serving ends of your utensils
• How to add texture and decoration while the slab is flat
• How to use natural materials, stamps and found objects to create surface texture
• How to create a matching spoon rest from a slab
• How to shape a shallow bowl that securely holds your utensil
• How to support your pieces while they firm up and dry
• How to refine surfaces, smooth edges and remove unwanted marks
• How to add functional details such as hanging holes or finger grips
• How to create a cohesive design across a set of functional pieces
• How to use leftover clay to create additional small utensils