What will I learn?

In this enjoyable, hands-on ceramics workshop, participants will design and make their own slab-built butter dish in stoneware clay - a practical piece of handmade pottery created entirely by you. Guided step by step through the process, you’ll learn the fundamentals of slab building, from rolling and preparing clay slabs to accurately chamfering and joining edges so your dish fits together neatly and securely.

You’ll also be introduced to decorating with coloured slips, allowing you to add pattern, texture and personality to your piece. Whether you prefer bold colour, subtle marks or simple graphic designs, there’s plenty of scope to make something that feels uniquely yours. Once completed, all pieces will be professionally fired and finished with a clear glaze, making them waterproof, durable and fully food safe.

This workshop is suitable for beginners as well as those with some clay experience, and offers a relaxed, creative environment where you can learn new skills while enjoying the tactile, satisfying nature of working with clay.

What will I take away with me?

After the firing process is complete, you’ll be able to collect your finished butter dish - a functional, food-safe piece of handmade ceramics ready to use and enjoy in your kitchen, or to give as a thoughtful, handmade gift.

Do I need to bring anything with me? 

No, just bring yourself. If you have your own apron, you are welcome to bring it.

Is it suitable for beginners?

Yes

About the Artist/Facilitator 

Jess Morris:

I am a Fine Art graduate and ceramic artist with over five years of experience teaching ceramics to adults, children and individuals with special educational needs. My teaching practice spans wheel-throwing and hand-building with a strong focus on accessibility, creativity, and confidence-building through clay. My ceramics teaching career began in the UK, working for a ceramic artist in Hertfordshire where I ran weekly Saturday classes. Since then, I have taught across studios in Australia and internationally, including leading ceramics sessions at a children’s camp in the United States. These experiences have shaped a flexible and inclusive teaching approach that adapts to a wide range of abilities, ages, and learning styles. Alongside teaching, I maintain an active studio practice. I create wheel-thrown and coil-built ceramic work enriched with vibrant underglazes, exploring movement, flow, and rhythm across both functional and sculptural forms. My work balances spontaneity with structure, often blurring the line between tableware and sculpture. My ceramics have been sold to private collectors and institutions, including a large-scale sculptural work acquired bv Sheffield Hallam University for their private collection. I have also sold functional tableware through local markets across the UK. At the heart of my practice is a love of sharing ceramics with others - encouraging curiosity, experimentation, and a deeper connection to material through making.

Access Information - Workshop

When you enter the Hub, head to the shop reception and a Visitor Experience Assistant will be able to show you to the room.

The workshop is on the ground floor, you can see a picture of the room below.

The workshop is temperature controlled and well lit.

You are close to all toilet facilities, also on the ground floor. You will have access to two disabled toilets.

You are welcome to take drinks or snacks into the workshop if required.

If you would like to talk to a member of staff about access, please email info@hub-sleaford.org.uk or call 01529 308710.