Exploring Ceramic Glazes
Ceramics Workshop with Howard Sawhill
Saturday, November 8, 1pm-4pm
Workshop Description:
If you would like to learn more about ceramic clay and glazes but are afraid it’s all just chemistry, this is the class for you!
What’s the underlying difference between a clay body and a glaze, and how does the kiln firing transform them into a strong body with a protective glaze? Lots of things can, and do, go wrong during the making and firing of pottery. We’ll handle and examine test tiles with a wide range of glaze faults—some easily preventable and others more complex—then discuss troubleshooting techniques to address them. We’ll also spend time exploring “food safe” glazes; flocculation/de-flocculation; and supply chain issues.
The structure of the class is designed to be interactive, combining instructor-led presentations with group discussion. Participants are encouraged to bring in their pottery pieces for class analysis and discussion. For those interested in making their own glazes or experimenting with modifications, I have several suggestions to help you on your journey.
We will not be mixing or applying glazes in this class, but we’ll have ample time for Q&A and discussion.
About Howard:
Howard Sawhill graduated from MIT with a PhD in Ceramics and, after 30 years in industrial R&D, founded “Cone Blue Pottery”, whose mainstay is the study of ceramic glazes. His publications aim to help fellow potters improve their understanding of glaze performance and explore new glaze possibilities. He has taught ceramic glaze workshops across NC, including at Odyssey ClayWorks in Asheville, Claymakers in Durham, Sawtooth School for Visual Arts in Winston Salem, and The Arts Center in Carrboro. He has published in Ceramics Art+Perception (2019, 2021) and Studio Potter (2020, 2022), and recently presented STEAM posters at NCECA Richmond (2024) and Salt Lake City (2025).
Registration is $90 - Register below
Space is limited - Students must pre-register
100 Russell Drive, Star, NC 27356
Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your session to check in wearing close toes shoes. Class will be held in the Starworks Clay Studio. Check in at the School House Gallery at Starworks. (Main Entrance) Cancellations must be made at least 7 days prior to class date. Cancellations made after that date will not be refunded.
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