Wheel Throwing Fundamentals
Adult Class | Registration opens 11/4/2026 10:00 AM MDT
If you want to try the potter's wheel for the first time, you are new to clay and/or haven't worked in the ASLD ceramics studio, this workshop is a great way to gain skills and knowledge to get you started off on the right footing.
This introductory workshop will focus on basic wheel techniques and introduce you to studio practices and ASLD ceramics studio policies. The first few sessions will focus on building a solid framework of skills including pinch pots, centering, making cylinders and trimming.
In the final sessions, you will learn to glaze your work and continue practicing throwing to assist you in getting the feel of clay and the wheel. The goal of this workshop is to provide you with the fundamentals to make a successful transition into beginner + / intermediate wheel classed.
- Class clay is included in the material fees, please only buy a personal bag of clay if you want to attend open studios.
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
Jack Heimerman
Jack Heimerman has a BFA in ceramics from Northern Arizona University, and has a background in atmospheric firing techniques like wood and sagger firing. He has exhibited his work nationally and internationally. He taught adult and children's wheel throwing at the Art League School in Alexandria, VA, before moving to Colorado a few years ago.
Jack's approach to teaching allows for independent growth and exploration while giving students hands on instruction to master the fundamentals of throwing. As the student becomes more proficient on the wheel, they are given greater creative license to follow their own personal style.