Handmade Clay Stamps

In this workshop, we’re getting creative with handmade clay stamps — simple tools that can add so much personality and character to your pottery.

You’ll learn how to design and carve your own stamps, whether you want to create decorative textures, repeat patterns or a personalised maker’s mark. We’ll look at the history and purpose of mark-making, as well as the different ways stamps can be designed and used.

We’ll explore the difference between recessed and protruding stamps, and how your choice of clay can affect the strength, detail and final impression of your stamp. You’ll also learn about the visual reversal effect — understanding that the design you carve will always appear in reverse when pressed into clay.

From carving and testing to refining your design, you’ll learn how to create stamps that work beautifully and can be used again and again. You’ll then put your stamps into practice by using them to sign, decorate and personalise your pottery.

This workshop is perfect for potters who want to create their own tools and add a unique, timeless and professional touch to their work.

What you'll learn

• The origins and purpose of maker’s marks
• The difference between recessed and protruding stamps
• How to choose the right clay for strength and detail
• How to design and carve your own clay stamps
• How to test and refine your stamp impressions
• Understanding reversal and mirror effects when stamping
• How to create stamps for decorative textures and patterns
• How to use handmade stamps to sign and personalise your pottery
• How to use stamps to add detail and character to finished pieces