Classes & Workshops

DATE NIGHT AT PETALUMA POTTERY

Ages: 18+up
Instructors: Kelly Brothers | Forrest Middelton | Lara Birchler | Lily Hourigan | Heather Fordham
Cost: $105 - Covers TWO People
Skill Level: All levels, great for beginners.

UPCOMING DATES: June 29. July 6, 13. 6:00-8:00pm

Clay is more fun in pairs! Want to learn the basics of making pottery on the wheel with your best friend, a date, your mom? Join us at Petaluma Pottery for a night of wheel throwing and fun. Sign up fees include clay, use of tools, glaze, and firing of 1-2 pieces. Arrive ready to get dirty wearing clothes and shoes you don’t mind getting clay on. Bring your own apron.

What to Expect
Our instructor will give a demo and then help you create your own pot on the wheel. Let yourself be a beginner or dust off those old skills, all skill levels are welcome. We can’t guarantee a masterpiece on your first try but rest assured you’ll have fun with a friend whether you end up with an ash tray or the holy grail. After your class your work will be glazed, fired, and ready for pick up within a few weeks.

one night on the wheel

Instructors: Kelly Brothers | Forrest Middelton | Lily Hourigan | Lara Birchler | Heather Fordham
Cost: $52
Skill Level: All levels, great for beginners.
Ages: 14+up
UPCOMING DATES: July 3 from 10:00am-12:00pm

CLASS DESCRIPTION
Want to learn the basics of making pottery on the wheel but not ready to commit to a multi-week class? Sign up on your own or with a friend and join us at Petaluma Pottery for a night of fun and wheel throwing. Sign up fees include clay, use of tools, glaze, and firing of 2 pieces. Arrive ready to get dirty wearing clothes and shoes you don’t mind getting clay on. Bring your own apron.

WHAT TO EXPECT
Our instructor will give a demo and then help you create your own pot on the wheel. Let yourself be a beginner or dust off those old skills, all skill levels are welcome. We can’t guarantee a masterpiece on your first try but rest assured you’ll have fun whether you end up with an ash tray or the holy grail. After your class your work will be glazed, fired, and ready for pick up on average between 2-3 weeks.

ONE NIGHT OF HANDBUILDING

Ages: 13+ up
Instructor: Stephanie LeBaudour
Cost: $52
Skill Level: All levels, great for beginners.
Date: More Dates Coming Soon.

Want to learn the basics of handbuilding pottery? Join us at Petaluma Pottery for a night of light hearted handbuilding projects. In this one night class you will make one small trinket dish using pinching techniques and one mug using slab building techniques. Sign up fees include clay, tools for your use, glaze, and firing of 1 mug and 1 trinket dish. If you make more than 2 pieces you will pick your favorite 2 only for firing. Arrive ready to get dirty wearing clothes and shoes you don’t mind getting clay on. Bring your own apron.

What to Expect
Our instructor will give a demo and then help you create your own projects. Let yourself be a beginner or dust off those old skills, all skill levels are welcome. After your class your work will be glazed (using the glaze you choose at the end of class), fired, and ready for pick up within a few weeks.

Animal Busts

Ages: 13+ up
Instructor: Stephanie LeBaudour
Cost: $72
Skill Level: All levels, some experience is helpful but not required
Date: June 29 from 1:30pm-4:30pm

Join sculptor Stephanie LeBaudour at our community studio to learn how to handbuild animal busts. Learn how to plan your piece using 2 dimensional reference material and then how to make those plans a reality in 3D. Stephanie will talk about structure, attachments, hollowing, and more. Arrive ready to get dirty wearing clothes and shoes you don’t mind getting clay on. Bring your own apron.

What to Expect
Your instructor will give a demo and then help you create your own animal bust. All skill levels are welcome but some pottery or sculpture experience is helpful. After your class your work will be fired, and ready for pick up within a few weeks.

Berry Baskets

Ages: 12+ up
Instructor: Emma Logan
Cost: $65
Skill Level: All levels, some experience is helpful but not required
Date: July 13 from 1:30pm-4:00pm

Join instructor Emma Logan to handbuild your own berry baskets. You will learn both coiling and slab building techniques to create your own square or circular berry baskets. Learn attaching and finishing techniques. Arrive ready to get dirty wearing clothes and shoes you don’t mind getting clay on. Bring your own apron.

What to Expect
Your instructor will give a demo and then help you create two small berry baskets. All skill levels are welcome but some pottery or sculpture experience is helpful. After your class your work will be fired with the glaze of your choice, and ready for pick up within a few weeks.

BLOOMS AND BIRDS WITH PAPER CLAY : WEEKEND WORKSHOP WITH MALIA LANDIS

When: JULY 20 + 21 from 10:00am-4:00pm each day
Instructor: Malia Landis
Ages: 18+up
Cost: $300
Skill Level: All levels, but some experience is helpful.

DESCRIPTION: Learn to press petals and feathered friends while handbuilding stronger, lighter sculptures using paperclay!   Students will learn about the advantages and varied uses of using paper pulp with water-based clay bodies and explore the broad range of uses of paperclay. Come be inspired and handbuild flora and fauna with sculptor, Malia Landis

INSTRUCTOR BIO: Instructor Malia Landis is a sculptor, designer and ceramic artist living and making in Ukiah, California.  Born in St. Helena, California and raised on the Big Island of Hawaii, Malia creates pressed porcelain and stoneware sculptures inspired by both of these incredible places.  She received her Bachelor of Arts from Humboldt State University and her Master of Fine Arts from San Jose State University.  See more of Malia's work at www.malialandis.com

Wheel throwing level 1 : 8 Week class

When: Monday mornings from 9:30am-12:30pm. 8 Weeks beginning July 1 and ending August 19.
Instructor: Kelly Brothers
Ages: 18+up
Cost: $305
Skill Level: All levels, great for beginners. Many students will take Level 1 multiple times to continue making and build up their skill level before taking level 2.

CLASS DESCRIPTION
Learn the skills necessary to make handmade, functional ceramics. In this beginner level class (great for first timers or those who haven’t thrown in years) students learn step by step how to throw successfully from start to finish primarily focusing on smaller cups, mugs, bowls, and plates. Each class will begin with an in depth wheel demonstration highlighting various pitfalls, solutions, and proper body mechanics. As students practice, they will receive one-on-one guidance and correction at the wheel. We will learn methods for centering, trimming, techniques for handles, and basic surface and glazing techniques. Your instructor will work with each individual to progress their skills based on their skill level. This class is hands on. Come prepared to get dirty and make work!

LOGISTICS
Class fee includes 20 lbs of our in-house clay and firing. You can purchase additional clay if you end up wanting more. You will need a basic tool kit which you can either purchase from our online store or on the first day of class. You are also welcome to bring your own tools! Your class comes with 7 hours of open studio time to come in and practice what you are learning in class. More details about open studio times and logistics during the first week of class.

Handbuilding level 1 : 8 week class

When: Monday evenings from 6:00pm-9:00pm. 8 Weeks beginning June 24 ending August 12.
Ages: 18+up
Instructor: Stephanie LeBaudour
Cost: $305
Skill Level: All levels, great for beginners. Many students will take Level 1 multiple times to continue making and build up their skill level before taking level 2.

CLASS DESCRIPTION
In this class you will learn a wide array of hand building techniques that can be used for both functional or sculptural applications depending on your interests! Your instructor will demonstrate pinching, slab building with both hard and soft slabs, and coil building. Students will also learn stamping, decorating, and glazing techniques. Every class will begin with a hand-building or surface demonstration. This class is hands on! Come prepared to get dirty and make work.

LOGISTICS
Class fee includes 20 lbs of our in-house clay and firing. You can purchase additional clay if you end up wanting more. You will need a basic tool kit which you can either purchase from our online store or on the first day of class. You are also welcome to bring your own tools! Your class comes with 7 hours of open studio time to come in and practice what you are learning in class. More details about open studio times and logistics during the first week of class.

Wheel Throwing Level 1 : 8 WEEK CLASS

When: Tuesday evenings from 6:00pm-9:00pm. 8 Weeks beginning July 2 and ending August 20.
Instructor: Joe Farnham
Ages: 18+up
Cost: $305
Skill Level: Beginner Level. Many students will take Level 1 multiple times to continue throwing and build up their skill level before taking Level 2.

CLASS DESCRIPTION
Learn the skills necessary to make handmade, functional ceramics or build on your past wheel throwing knowledge. In this class students learn step by step how to throw successfully from start to finish. Each class will begin with an in depth wheel demonstration highlighting various pitfalls, solutions, and proper body mechanics. As students practice, they will receive one-on-one guidance and correction at the wheel. We will discuss methods for trimming, techniques for handles, and of course glazing! This class it is for all levels and Joe will work with each individual to progress their skills based on their experience and current skill level. This class is hands on. Come prepared to get dirty and make work!

LOGISTICS
Class fee includes 20 lbs of our in-house clay and firing. You can purchase additional clay if you end up wanting more. You will need a basic tool kit which you can either purchase from our online store or on the first day of class. You are also welcome to bring your own tools! Your class comes with 8 hours of open studio time to come in and practice what you are learning in class. More details about open studio times and logistics during the first week of class.

Wheel throwing Level 1 : 7 Week class

When: Wednesday mornings from 9:30am-12:30pm. 7 Weeks beginning July 10 and ending August 21.
Instructor: Kelly Brothers
Ages: 18+up
Cost: $285
Skill Level: Beginner Level. Many students will take Level 1 multiple times to continue throwing and build up their skill level before taking level 2.

CLASS DESCRIPTION
Learn the skills necessary to make handmade, functional ceramics. In this beginner level class (great for first timers or those who haven’t thrown in years) students learn step by step how to throw successfully from start to finish primarily focusing on smaller cups, mugs, bowls, and plates. Each class will begin with an in depth wheel demonstration highlighting various pitfalls, solutions, and proper body mechanics. As students practice, they will receive one-on-one guidance and correction at the wheel. We will learn methods for centering, trimming, techniques for handles, and basic surface and glazing techniques. Your instructor will work with each individual to progress their skills based on their skill level. This class is hands on. Come prepared to get dirty and make work!

LOGISTICS
Class fee includes 20 lbs of our in-house clay and firing. You can purchase additional clay if you end up wanting more. You will need a basic tool kit which you can either purchase from our online store or on the first day of class. You are also welcome to bring your own tools! Your class comes with 8 hours of open studio time to come in and practice what you are learning in class. More details about open studio times and logistics during the first week of class.

Wheel throwing Level 1 : 6 Week class

When: Wednesday evenings from 6:00pm-9:00pm. 6 Weeks beginning July 17 ending August 21.
Instructor: Heather Fordham
Ages: 18+up
Cost: $255
Skill Level: Beginner Level. Many students will take Level 1 multiple times to continue throwing and build up their skill level before taking level 2.

CLASS DESCRIPTION
Learn the skills necessary to make handmade, functional ceramics. In this beginner level class (great for first timers or those who haven’t thrown in years) students learn step by step how to throw successfully from start to finish primarily focusing on smaller cups, mugs, bowls, and plates. Each class will begin with an in depth wheel demonstration highlighting various pitfalls, solutions, and proper body mechanics. As students practice, they will receive one-on-one guidance and correction at the wheel. We will learn methods for centering, trimming, techniques for handles, and basic surface and glazing techniques. Your instructor will work with each individual to progress their skills based on their skill level. This class is hands on. Come prepared to get dirty and make work!

LOGISTICS
Class fee includes 20 lbs of our in-house clay and firing. You can purchase additional clay if you end up wanting more. You will need a basic tool kit which you can either purchase from our online store or on the first day of class. You are also welcome to bring your own tools! Your class comes with 8 hours of open studio time to come in and practice what you are learning in class. More details about open studio times and logistics during the first week of class.

handbuilding Independent study: 8 week class

When: Thursday mornings from 9:30 am-12:30 pm. 8 Weeks beginning June 27 and ending August 15. There is no class on July 4.
Instructor: Stephanie LeBaudour
Ages: 18+up
Cost: $290
Skill Level: Level 2, some previous handbuilding experience is required.

CLASS DESCRIPTION
Handbuilding independent study will take your handbuilding skills to the next level and allot you the time you need to make some serious progress with your work. Work on your own handbuilding projects under the guidance of your instructor who is available to you for demos, critiques, feedback, etc.

LOGISTICS
This class does not include clay. Plan to purchase one of our studio clays prior to or on the first day of class. You will need a basic tool kit which you can either purchase from our online store or on the first day of class. You are also welcome to bring your own tools! Your class comes with 8 hours of open studio time to come in and practice what you are learning in class. More details about open studio times and logistics during the first week of class.

level 2 WHEEL THROWING: 7 Week class

When: Thursday evenings from 6:00pm-9:00pm. 7 Weeks beginning July 11 and ending August 22.
Instructor: Kelly Brothers
Ages: 18+up
Cost: $285
Skill Level | Pre-requisites : Level 2. Experienced beginner to intermediate. Must have taken a multi week wheel throwing class at Petaluma Pottery or elsewhere.

CLASS DESCRIPTION
This 8 week session will take your wheel throwing skills to the next level. Each class will begin with a wheel throwing demonstration to help fine tune and finesse your throwing skills. Receive feedback, guidance, and critique on your body mechanics and techniques as well as your pots forms and function. This course comes with 8 open studio hours for you to practice what you are learning outside of class.
Class comes with 20 lbs of clay.
This class is hands on. Come prepared to get dirty and make work!

Ceramic sampler : 7 Week class

When: Sunday mornings from 9:30am-12:30pm. 7 Weeks beginning June 30 and ending August 18. There is no class on July 21.
Ages: 18+up
Cost: $285
Instructor: Kelly Brothers
Skill Level: Level 1. No previous experience necessary.

CLASS DESCRIPTION
We’re excited to bring back our ceramic sampler! The sampler is a great class for those wanting to dive into clay and get a little bit of exposure to a lot of techniques. This class will begin with three weeks of handbuilding including pinching, coiling, and slab building as well as basic stamping and decorating techniques. Weeks 4, 5, and 6 will focus on wheel throwing fundamentals including centering, throwing basics, and trimming. Students will primarily throw small vessels. Week 7 will include studio time to glaze pieces, ask questions, and wrap up your projects from the first 6 weeks.

LOGISTICS
Class fee includes 20 lbs of our in-house clay and firing. You can purchase additional clay if you end up wanting more. Bring your own tools or buy a kit from our shop prior to class! Your class comes with 7 hours of open studio time. More details about open studio times and logistics during the first week of class.

Forrest Lesch-Middelton founded FLM Ceramics and Tile, where he manages a small team making handmade pottery and tile in Petaluma, CA. In 2018 Forrest founded Petaluma Pottery with his wife Beth Schaible! He has a B.F.A. from the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University and an M.F.A. in Ceramics from Utah State University. He has taught at Sonoma State University, Diablo Valley College, Santa Rosa Junior College, and Utah State University. He also lectures and teaches workshops at universities and art centers across the country.
In 2014 Forrest was named the Ceramic Artist of the Year by Ceramics Monthly, and in 2017 he was a McKnight Fellow at the Northern Clay Center in Minneapolis, MN.
www.flmceramics.com

Emma Logan is an artist and educator based in Petaluma, CA. She received her MFA at Mills College, preceded by a BA with an emphasis in ceramics at San Francisco State University, and first fell in love with clay taking classes at the junior college. In addition to making sculpture and installation works using clay and other natural materials, Emma is a naturalist and researcher with a passion for examining our relationships to agriculture, community, and the world around us.
emmaloganceramics.com

Stephanie LeBaudour is a ceramicist living in Petaluma, CA. She received her BFA with an emphasis in Sculpture and Ceramics from San Francisco State University. After graduating she participated in the post bachelors’ program with the ceramics department at SF State and taught art and ceramics classes for children in Marin County. Originally from Ohio, Stephanie fell in love with working with clay and painting as a child and is continuing to develop a body of work exploring the relationship between form and surface.
www.instagram.com/stephanielebaudour_ceramics

Heather Fordham has been pottering around with clay since high school. She holds a BA in art history from Mills College and a MA in museum studies from John F. Kennedy University. Through her time working in museums over the past twenty years, she has cared for and studied the work of prominent local and international ceramicists. In her own work, she prioritizes form over decoration and strives to make silhouettes that are both strong and delicate. She creates her pottery in her home studio in Petaluma, has been profiled in Sonoma Magazine and you may dine off her work at Table Culture Provisions.
www.instagram.com/heatherfordhamceramics

Kelly Brothers is a Petaluma local with a long time love for craft and fine arts. Self-taught in photography, she has spent over a decade behind the lenses of her digital and 35mm film cameras capturing portraits and moments both professionally and as a hobby. After starting on the wheel at Petaluma Pottery under current and former instructors, she became the apprentice at FLM Tile & Ceramics in March of 2020 where she continues to work with Forrest Lesch-Middelton in his tile studio and at Petaluma Pottery. During her time as an apprentice she has developed her body of wheel-thrown functional wares, incorporating her passion for political and environmental justice into the surface designs of her pots.
kellybrotherspottery.com

Lara Birchler is a multimedia artist, amateur naturalist, and professional educator. Lara has a BA from UC Santa Cruz (Fine Art), a CA Single Subject (Art) Teaching Credential from Cal State Long Beach, and 15 years of experience teaching Ceramics and other art courses in public high schools. She recently spent 3 years studying nature-based curriculum at the Weaving Earth Center for Relational Education. Now Lara devotes most of her time to working in the studio, learning from the wild world, and serving as a nature-connection and creativity mentor for kids. Though she has explored many different mediums since childhood, Lara’s path keeps bringing her back to clay. She treasures the satisfaction of making things that support people (plus other beings like birds and plants!) to be nourished and delighted. Lara moved to Sonoma Co. not long ago, and is very grateful to be a part of the Petaluma Pottery community.
www.instagram.com/larabirchler

Lily Hourigan is a multifaceted artist. She has enjoyed working with different mediums including paint, fabrics, tile, and (of course) clay. She has a BS in Industrial Design with a Minor in Labor Studies from San Francisco State University. Lily first experienced community through art at ArtStart in Santa Rosa where she lead groups of teens in creating public murals and mosaics. Since then, she joined the local clay studio in Arcata, CA where she explored the serenity and frustration of throwing pottery. She is now back in her hometown — Petaluma — where she is grateful to be part of the Petaluma Pottery community. Her pieces focus on both functionality and surface design. 
lily005.wixsite.com/lilyhourigan

Joe Farnham is a ceramicist living in Rohnert Park. He works in ceramic manufacturing in the Bay Area. Joe graduated from San Francisco State University with a B.S. in Business Marketing and a B.A. in Ceramics. He began his exploration of ceramics in high school, but truly fell in love with the art while taking a class with Forrest at the Santa Rosa Junior College. Joe previously worked out of Red Brick Studios in San Francisco, before moving to Sonoma County and building his own home studio. He has two daughters, and a cat named Peanut Marshmallow, who keep him very busy. When he is not working, playing with his children, or creating in his studio, Joe loves to play golf. Joe’s personal work focuses on wheel throwing with porcelain and high grog clay bodies. He loves to study the relationship between form and function, including how glazes can play a part in dictating how the piece can be used.
www.instagram.com/joethrows