Pottery has the potential for infinite variability through clay type, form and surface decoration. From vessels to making art, humans have been playing with clay for over 20,000 years. Porcelain is an extra special type of clay that we will be using to make delicate Christmas decorations. The word porcelain comes from the Latin word ‘porcella’ meaning seashell, implying smooth, white and lustrous.

A bit more detail:
Inspired by the beautiful gardens at Toolerstone we will be exploring the natural impressions that foliage can leave in clay to create stunning, delicate porcelain Christmas decorations and that will look perfect on your tree and make extra special gift tags for your presents.

About the tutor:
Jeni Jacques-Williams, is a Cheshire based ceramicist and is a regular columnist for Clay Craft magazine providing articles to support and guide new and experienced potters across the UK and internationally. Jeni creates pottery and teaches from her pottery workshop Lemon Studio in the beautiful village of Dunham Massey and has sold work in shops and galleries across the UK and for the National Trust.

Jeni is a member of the Northern Potters Association and is the founder of the Warrington Creatives Collective, a group of over 20 local makers.

Jeni will be delivering a range of pottery workshops throughout the year here at Toolerstone. The workshops are suitable for beginners and for those with previous experience working with clay.

Timetable of the day

09:30 A warm welcome to @:Toolerstone with coffee & pastries
10:15 Introduction and time spent in the garden collecting foliage and ideas.
11:00 Tea and Coffee served.
11:15 An introduction to working with porcelain clay and the techniques we will be using.
11:30 Time to start rolling your slabs, imprinting your foraged materials and cutting your decorations.
13:00 Delicious homemade lunch in the refectory
14:00 Putting the finishing touches to refine your work
15.00 Workshop ends and your pottery will be taken away by Jeni to be dried and fired before being posted to you within 2 weeks.

What is included?

• All materials & tools
• Aprons are provided for the day if required
• Refreshments & a delicious lunch
• Free onsite car parking
• Following the workshop your pieces will be dried and fired before being dispatched to you within 2 weeks.

What do I need to bring?

Just yourself and your enthusiasm to try something new!

Experience level

We welcome all levels of experience from beginners to the enthusiastic