The Cup: Design & Refine-THU 7:30PM S526
Design one form, refine to develop your skills with Danny
Available spots
Course Description
A well-designed cup doesn’t happen by accident. It develops through careful decisions, iteration, and refinement. In this six-week course, students focus on designing and perfecting a single functional cup form. Whether thrown on the wheel or handbuilt, the goal is to create multiple versions of the same cup — studying proportion, balance, comfort, lip thickness, handle placement (if applicable), and surface treatment. We begin by examining strong examples of professional ceramic work and replicating forms to better understand structure and proportion. From there, students refine their designs week by week — adjusting subtle details, experimenting with texture and alteration, and learning how trimming, attachments, and surface decisions affect both function and aesthetic. Glaze becomes part of the design conversation as well. Students evaluate how application methods enhance or obscure form and learn to choose finishes that support their intention. By working in series and comparing iterations side by side, students develop consistency, efficiency, and a clearer personal design process. The goal is not simply to make a cup — but to refine one until it truly works. Prerequisite: Completion of Potter’s Wheel Basics, Sculpting with Coils, Pinch, Slab, Sculpt, or comparable experience. Students should be comfortable independently creating a simple cup form by wheel or handbuilding. Course Benefits: -Open Studio Time: Practice and perfect your skills outside of class hours. Check the Student Practice page on our website for current hours. -25 Pounds of Clay: Includes firing and glazing, so you have plenty of material to experiment with. -Access to Basic Tools: All necessary tools are provided during class. Feel free to bring your own towel and apron for added comfort. Please note, there are no makeup classes for this course. If you need to miss a class, speak with your instructor about what you'll miss and plan to get extra studio practice that week to stay on track. Join us and start crafting your own beautiful cup design today!
Upcoming Courses
Cancellation Policy
To reschedule or be refunded (less transaction fees) requires: - at least 3 days notice before a One-Time Class - at least 5 days notice before the first day of a 6-week course No refunds issued with less than the required notice above, but if your spots are rebooked we will gladly reschedule you.
Contact Details
Throw Clay LA, 1006 South Olive Street, Los Angeles, CA, USA
213-537-8050
throwclayla@gmail.com