The Pottery Studio
Trimming Pots Masterclass
- Regular Price
- $35.00
- Sale Price
- $35.00
- Regular Price
- Unit Price
- per
In this workshop, we’re diving into one of the most satisfying parts of the pottery process — trimming.
Trimming is where your pieces really start to come to life. It’s not simply about removing excess clay; it’s about refining the shape, improving the balance and creating a finished form that feels intentional in both the hand and the eye.
You’ll learn how to set up and securely centre your leather-hard pieces before working through the fundamentals of trimming. We’ll look at how to remove excess weight from the base, flatten and refine the bottom, and shape the edge to create different profiles.
We’ll also explore foot rings and different base styles, from clean flat bases and subtle sunken bases to more defined and sculptural designs. You’ll learn how your trimming choices can become part of your individual pottery style.
Along the way, we’ll cover how to control thickness and weight, add optional textures and details, and troubleshoot some of the most common trimming problems — including uneven bases, chatter marks, holes and wobbly pieces.
Whether you’re trimming cups, bowls or other wheel-thrown forms, this workshop will help you understand not just how to trim, but why we trim.
This is where your work goes from “made” to “finished.”
What you'll learn
- Why trimming is an important part of the pottery process
- How to work with clay at the leather-hard stage
- How to securely centre and hold your piece on the wheel
- How to remove excess clay and weight from the base
- How to flatten and refine the bottom of your piece
- How to shape the edge for different profiles
- How to create and refine a foot ring
- How to control the thickness and weight of your piece
- Different base styles, including flat, sunken and raised designs
- How trimming choices can influence the character of your work
- How to add carved textures and decorative details
- How to refine and smooth your finished base
- How to troubleshoot uneven bases, chatter, holes and wobbling
- How to develop cleaner, more controlled trimming through practice
