Basics of Handbuilding with Gary Hambleton

Thursday 18 Sept 2025 & Thursday 25 Sept 2025

Cost: $130 per person 

Time: 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM

Description

Step into the world of clay with Gary Hambleton during Margaret River Region Open Studios 2025. This intimate, hands-on workshop is designed to introduce beginners and clay enthusiasts to the foundational techniques of handbuilding pottery. Whether you’ve never worked with clay before or you're curious to deepen your skills, this experience is the perfect starting point.

Under Gary’s gentle guidance, you’ll learn essential techniques like pinch pot building, joinery, and surface texturing. Working alongside you, Gary will demonstrate each stage of the process, offering insights and tips drawn from his years of experience.

You’ll build your very own vase and create a personal, expressive clay form that is uniquely yours. The final piece will be bisque fired and glazed—ready for collection 4–6 weeks later.

In this workshop, you will

• Learn the core techniques of handbuilding: pinch pots, coiling, and clay joinery
• Explore decorative textures and creative patterns in your own design
• Work alongside Gary in a relaxed and encouraging environment
• Create a one-of-a-kind vase to be fired and glazed professionally

Workshop includes

• All clay and materials
• Use of tools and studio space
• Firing (bisque + glaze) of your completed piece
• Your finished ceramic artwork, ready for pick-up in 4–6 weeks

Who

Ideal for beginners and clay enthusiasts aged 11 and above. Maximum 8 participants per session.

About Gary Hambleton

Gary brings decades of experience as a practicing ceramic artist, known for his quiet precision and passion for form, texture, and craftsmanship. His teaching style is warm, patient, and inspiring—offering both structure and freedom for creative exploration.

 Location:

Workshop Location: Commonage Pottery and Gallery at Happs Wines Venue, 575 Commonage Road, Dunsborough WA 6281.

Make your day extra special by adding a wine experience.  You can view our other experiences here.

Please familiarise yourself with our terms and conditions here prior to finalising your booking.