Water Etched Ceramics
Adult Class | Registration opens 8/5/2026 9:00 AM MDT
Erode the surface to reveal new dimensions of design! Hydro abrasion, commonly known as water etching, is a fascinating subtractive technique where a resist is used to protect a design while the surrounding clay is gently washed away with a sponge. This process creates incredible tactile depth and crisp edges that are impossible to achieve through carving alone.
In this four-week intermediate class, students will bridge the gap between digital design and traditional pottery. We will explore how to use computerized cutting devices to create precise vinyl resists, alongside the more fluid approach of shellac resists. You will learn to identify the "sweet spot" of clay dryness for optimal etching and how to apply glazes that break beautifully over the textures you have created. By the end of the course, students will have created several pieces that highlight the unique contrast between raised patterns and eroded clay.
Learning Objectives:
-Master the mechanics of hydro abrasion on leather-hard clay.
-Utilize digital cutters to translate intricate patterns onto 3D ceramic forms.
-Experiment with different resist types, including vinyl and shellac.
-Explore different glaze applications to highlight etched textures.
Weekly Overview
Week 1: We will dive into the basic mechanics of water etching with a live demonstration of the "wash-away" technique. Students will begin throwing or hand-building forms specifically designed for surface experimentation while planning their design concepts.
Week 2: After trimming work, we will use computerized cutting devices to print and apply custom vinyl resists. Students will have hands-on time to practice the water etching process on their prepared pieces.
Week 3: We will explore the more fluid textures of shellac resists, allowing for more organic designs, experimenting with how different resists interact with the clay body.
Week 4: We will demo and practice specific glaze techniques to ensure your etchings shine through.
Clay:
Each class includes a materials fee which covers the cost of firing and glazing. Additionally, this class has a fee which includes all clay that students will use during class time. If students want to participate in ceramic open studios, they will need to purchase their own bag of clay from the registration office on the 1st floor. Clay costs are $20 for 25lbs of stoneware, $25 for 25lbs of porcelain. Please only purchase clay from ASLD, unless approved by the studio manager. No low-fire clays may be used at ASLD.
Tools:
Community tools are available for student use, in exception of a small sponge. If you prefer personal tools, a basic ceramics tool kit, small sponges and large clean up sponges are available for purchase at the Registration Office.
Other supplies:
Students are encouraged to wear clothes that can get dirty to ceramics class, including close-toed shoes. We also recommend bringing an apron and a towel.
Please review the ceramics studio policies before attending the first class: CERAMICS STUDIO POLICIES
- Local Ceramic supply stores:
- Rocky Mountain Clay 1220 W 1st Ave, Denver, CO 80223
- Continental Clay 5303 East 47th Ave., Denver, CO 80216
Stoneleaf Pottery 6611 W 58th Pl, Arvada, CO 80003
Meiningers 499 Broadway, Denver, CO 80203
Nellie Stagg
Nellie has always been a maker - creating across many disciplines including ceramics, printmaking, felting, embroidery, and sculpture. Throughout her creations, Nellie’s keen design eye and playful spirit shine through.
In ceramics, Nellie focuses on crafting functional pieces that bring joy to everyday use. Nellie’s creativity and full range of making techniques is evident in her ceramic works. She particularly enjoys experimenting with the creative possibilities of the raku firing process.
As an educator, Nellie strikes a balance between providing supportive instruction and fostering independent exploration among her students. Nellie cultivates an encouraging learning environment where students can freely experiment with new techniques and develop their own personal style. Nellie is believed to have created the world’s first ceramic hot dog menorah.