Spend a relaxed morning in the Forge learning the foundations of hand-built ceramics with ceramicist Victoria Brook.

In this small, hands-on workshop, Victoria will guide you through the process of slab building and surface decoration, showing you how to shape clay into your own unique vase. You’ll explore different ways of working with the material, including imprinting, carving and slip decoration, creating texture and pattern as your piece takes shape.

No previous experience is needed – the session is designed to be informal, creative and welcoming for beginners as well as those looking to spend a few mindful hours working with clay.

What you’ll create

Each guest will make one hand-built ceramic vase using traditional slab-building techniques and decorative surface methods.

Firing and collection

After the workshop, Victoria will take your finished piece away to be fired and glazed, a process which takes approximately six weeks.

Once complete, your vase can be:

Collected from Middleton Lodge, or

Collected from Newcastle

Postage may also be arranged for an additional cost.

Refreshments

The morning includes a short refreshment break, where guests will enjoy:

A Forge seasonal scone (cream or scruffy style)

Tea or coffee

A seasonal cordial will also be offered on arrival.

Workshop details

Duration: 2 hours

Time: 9.30am – 11.30am

Arrival: from 9.15am

Maximum guests: 12

Booking information

£75 per person

Full payment is required at the time of booking

A minimum of 8 guests is required for the workshop to take place

If this minimum is not met, a full refund will be issued

Cancellations made up to one month before the event will receive a 50% refund. After this point, tickets are non-refundable.