Two-Day Leatherhard Carving Workshop in Towradgi

On the south coast of New South Wales, in the small coastal suburb of Towradgi, Carved Mug - Two-day Workshop Towradgi offers a hands-on ceramics experience that centers on the much-coveted 'leatherhard' stage. Held at 80b Towradgi Rd, Towradgi NSW 2518, Australia, this two-session class spreads over consecutive afternoons so you build on day one and carve on day two — a rhythm that captures clay at its most satisfying. The first afternoon, participants hand-build a mid-fire clay form using templates and tools supplied by the studio. The instructor demonstrates slab, coil, and simple wheel-trim techniques while guiding proportions to fit the workshop’s large-size limit (up to 2000 cm³). Pieces are left to partially dry to reach leatherhard firmness overnight — the precise moment when clay takes a clean, crisp incision without collapsing. On the second afternoon, carving tools and guided stencils arrive. Students refine motifs, carve negative space, and practice controlled gouging to reveal texture and line. After carving the pieces dry for five days, studio staff complete bisque and glaze firings; the finished work is mailed or held for pickup and promised within four to six weeks. The course excludes delivery of finished pieces and food or drinks, and requires a minimum of ten paid tickets to proceed. What makes this workshop special for the Wollongong coast is its focus on process rather than a single finished object. Emphasizing the 'leatherhard' window is rare in short classes, and that focus creates visible transformation between sessions. The intimate class length (2.5 hours each day) suits makers aged 12 and up, and the relaxed studio environment invites both beginners and repeat students to experiment with form and surface. Practical details: wear clothes that can handle clay, bring a small sketch or reference, and expect to return for a second 2.5-hour session the next afternoon. The studio provides all clay, tools, aprons, glazing, and firings; glazing choices are in staff hands. Groups can produce mugs, plates, or small vases within the volume limits; instructors help size pieces to fit kiln capacity. This workshop is an ideal stop for travelers based in Wollongong who want a tactile, low-impact creative detour from coastal walks and surf. It’s a chance to learn a craft-specific technique, leave with a handcrafted object, and see how small-scale ceramics are produced on the NSW south coast. Staff email participants when pieces are ready; expect a four-to-six week turnaround and bring ID for pickup. The workshop is an excellent gift or short course for makers seeking clear instructor feedback and craft-specific technique. Because the studio handles bisque and glaze firings, you can travel light and return later for a durable, functional piece made by your own hands and expertise.