Wheel Throwing 101 with Sean

Ceramics Wheel Throwing 101 with Sean

About This Class

Curious about pottery but not ready to commit to a full series class? Looking for a fun Date Night activity? Our single-session “Try It” workshop is the perfect way to get your hands dirty and experience the unshakable joy of the potter’s wheel. In this 2-hour workshop, you’ll learn the basics of centering and shaping clay on the wheel with step-by-step guidance from Sean.

No prior knowledge required–this class is all about exploration and fun. You’ll have the chance to make several pieces, and we’ll finish and glaze everything you made after class so you can go home with a lasting keepsake from your first pottery experience!

What’s Included:2-Hour Instructed SessionAll materials, tools, clay, and glazes providedFiring of 1 finished piece per student (we can finish and fire additional pieces for a small fee)
About the Instructor:
Sean Norton is a potter, projection designer, performer and educator from Ithaca, New York. He studied Arts & Creative Technology and Ceramic Archaeology at Oberlin College. His work spans a variety of mediums, including wheel-thrown ceramics, kinetic sculpture, and digital & analog media for installations and live performance.

View Sean's Portfolio

Your Instructor

S
Sean Norton

Supported by the Ceramics Guild

Welcome to the Past Lives Ceramics Guild! Our studio is a vibrant space for potters of all skill levels. We provide a fully equipped environment to explore wheel throwing, hand-building, and glazing.

• Four professional pottery wheels
• Two Large kilns for Bisque and Glaze firing (Cone 6 Oxidation); Members fire work for free
• Dedicated hand-building area with slab roller, extruder, and tools
• Wide selection of house glazes and underglazes

The ceramics guild is a collaborative, friendly space. We gather regularly on Tuesdays for Clay Play, and at our monthly guild meetings (First Thursdays).

About our guilds →

Where

Ceramics Studio
Past Lives Makerspace
2808 SE 9th Ave, Portland, OR 97202

FAQ

What's your cancellation policy?

We know plans change, but late cancellations and no-shows leave empty seats that could've gone to someone on the waitlist, and instructors still prep materials and hold space for every registered student. Here's how we handle it:

Canceling with 48+ hours' notice: No fee. Please cancel by emailing classes@pastlives.space as early as possible so we can offer your spot to someone on the waitlist.

Canceling with less than 48 hours' notice, or no-shows: We do not offer refunds for late cancellations and no-shows.

Emergencies: We understand things come up. Emergency exceptions are handled case-by-case. Please reach out to us directly, and we'll work with you.

How to cancel: Email classes@pastlives.space

Is the space accessible?

We have a ramp to reach our first floor, but please note that Past Lives Makerspace is not currently ADA accessible, and we do not have ADA accessible restrooms at this time. If you have questions about accessing a specific class or space, please reach out to us at studios@pastlives.space and we'll do our best to help.

Do I need any prior experience or skill level?

Generally, no! Our classes are designed for all skill levels, from complete beginners to those looking to refine existing techniques. Each class description will note if any prior experience is recommended.

What do I do once I arrive at Past Lives?

Our building is secure, and our doors are locked. The instructor will meet you at the front door to let you in 10 min. before your scheduled class time. If you don't see anyone, please knock!

$65
Registration closed
This class has already started — sign-ups are closed.
  • 5 max class size
  • Ceramics