Throwing off the Hump

In this workshop, we’re exploring the off-the-hump throwing technique — a brilliant way to make small pottery forms quickly and efficiently without centering a new ball of clay for every piece.

Instead, you’ll work from one large mound of clay, learning how to centre and control just the upper portion to create individual pieces. We’ll look at how to shape bowls, cups and vases while maintaining clean curves and consistent forms.

You’ll learn how to control your wheel speed, compress your rims and refine your shapes, as well as how to remove each piece cleanly without distorting the form. Once you get the hang of it, off-the-hump throwing can be a fantastic way to speed up your making while keeping your work consistent.

We’ll also explore how to use the technique for matching sets, stackable bowls and fitted lids, giving you plenty of ideas for making functional pottery efficiently.

This workshop is perfect for beginner to intermediate potters who want to build confidence on the wheel, improve consistency and discover a faster way to throw smaller forms.

What you'll learn

• How to prepare and centre a large mound of clay
• How to centre only the upper portion of the clay
• How to throw small bowls, cups and vases off the hump
• How to control wheel speed for efficient throwing
• Techniques for creating clean, consistent curves
• How to compress and refine your rims
• How to create matching sets with greater consistency
• How to throw stackable bowls
• How to throw and fit lids off the hump
• How to cut pieces off cleanly without distorting their shape
• Tips for improving speed, consistency and confidence on the wheel