Discover Creative Freedom: Handbuilding & Glazing Workshops in Philadelphia
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
No special physical conditioning required, suitable for all ages with basic manual dexterity.
Overview
Unlock your creativity with handbuilding and glazing workshops in Philadelphia's thriving arts scene. Experience the tactile joy of ceramics and craft your own functional art pieces in a welcoming studio environment.
Open Studio for Students: Handbuilding & Glazing
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About This Adventure
This open studio takes place at Black Hound Clay Studio West: 715 South 50th Street, West Philadelphia.
Duration: Thursday - Sunday, 12 - 5 pm
Open Studios allows currently enrolled students at BHCS to have time to hone skills, explore new techniques and practice, practice, practice!
This open studio is for handbuilding and glazing, and does not include use of a wheel.
Students may arrive at any point between 12 to 5 for open studio but must be fully cleaned up at 5 pm.
Because of limited space, a total of 15 people may enroll in this open studio each day.
Open studios are uninstructed but monitored by BHCS staff, who are available to answer basic questions.
Adventure Tips
Bring an apron or wear old clothes
Pottery and glazing can get messy; dressing for the experience keeps you comfortable throughout your session.
Arrive early to set up and get comfortable
Give yourself time to acclimate to the studio environment to make the most of your creative session.
Keep your tools clean during glazing
Properly cleaning tools between glaze applications ensures the colors remain vibrant and true.
Use water sparingly on your pieces
While water softens the clay, too much can weaken your project’s structure during handbuilding.
Local Insights
Wildlife
History
Philadelphia’s long tradition of artisan craftsmanship dates back to colonial times, influencing modern makers and studios in the city.
Conservation
The studio emphasizes sustainable practices by using non-toxic glazes and recycling clay scraps to reduce environmental impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Philadelphia
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Apron
Protects your clothes from clay and glaze stains during the session.
Closed-toe shoes
Keeps your feet safe in a studio environment with potential dropped tools or materials.
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated while focusing on your creative work.
Notebook or sketchbook
Bring to jot down techniques or design ideas inspired by your session.