Beginner's courses include all the basic techniques such as coiling, slab methods, thrown pots and sculpting in clay. Various decorative techniques, including sgraffito, slip-painting, underglazing and glazing. Typically, students beginning from scratch will produce about 6-8 finished pieces in their first course, after which they work on their own projects and receive one-to-one tuition.

The courses concentrate on three-dimensional art – sculpture and pot-making, with an emphasis on technical skills development and artistic exploration. Classes are designed to be relaxing and fun, without the pressure of academic qualifications, but with all the support and educational guidance needed to develop good work and gain experience with clay. Students are encouraged to experiment and to develop their own styles and techniques.

For those with experience of ceramics, we can expand and develop your skills, sharing hints and tips for throwing or glazing and experimenting with new materials – paper clay, porcelain, engobes and on-glaze enamels. Whatever your prior level of experience, Kinsale Pottery aims to tailor the course to your needs. This course is also suitable for teenagers aged 14 plus, and it is possible for teeneagers to attend for two-hours per evening at a reduced fee on application. Pottery courses for adults and teenagers aged 14 plus are designed to coincide with school term-times, and we also offer five-day intensive summer courses and two-day weekend introduction courses throughout the year.