Pottery isn’t just about function - it’s also a deeply expressive art form. And one of the most intuitive, meditative ways to tap into that creative side is through freeform coiling. This sculptural pottery technique allows you to slow down, connect with the clay, and build truly one-of-a-kind forms that reflect your personal style - no wheel required.

At Chisel Pottery, we’re excited to explore this beautiful practice through our brand-new Freeform Coiling: Pebbles workshop, launching this October and led by the brilliant ceramicist Sian Van Driel.

But first - what exactly is freeform coiling?

NEW: Free Form Coiling - Pebbles Workshop with Sian Van Driel

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What is Freeform Coiling?

Coiling is one of the oldest techniques in pottery, dating back thousands of years. Traditionally, long “snakes” of clay are layered one on top of the other to build up vessels like bowls, pots, and jars. But freeform coiling takes this foundational skill and turns it into something more abstract, fluid, and expressive.

Rather than aiming for symmetry or perfection, freeform coiling invites you to embrace organic shape. The process is slow and tactile, allowing you to explore curves, contours, and textures that reflect the natural world - or your own imagination.

You’re encouraged to follow your intuition, gently shaping and refining as you go. This makes it an excellent technique for potters of all levels - especially those interested in sculptural or non-functional work.

Why Pebbles?

For our newest sculptural workshop, we’ve chosen pebbles as both a starting point and a source of inspiration.

Think smooth river stones, beach-washed rocks, and rounded organic forms. These natural shapes are satisfying to hold, beautiful to display, and uniquely soothing to create. The workshop centres around building a closed form using coiling, slowly refining it into a sculptural ceramic pebble that is tactile, minimal, and grounding.

The simplicity of the form allows for deep focus on surface finish, texture, and presence - which is exactly where Sian’s expertise shines.

Meet the Artist: Sian Van Driel

Sian brings a wealth of knowledge and a gentle, intuitive approach to teaching. Her work explores earthy textures, natural surfaces, and the slow, sensory process of working with clay.

In this workshop, she’ll guide you through every step of the process - from building the form using coiling, to smoothing and shaping your pebble, to discussing firing options and final finish. You’ll be encouraged to work at your own pace and follow your creative instincts, making the experience both personal and deeply rewarding.

Upcoming Dates

We’re running two exclusive sessions of the Freeform Coiling: Pebbles workshop this autumn:

Saturday 25th October - Northshore Boatyard, Itchenor
Saturday 8th November - Chisel Pottery Studio, Chichester
Time: 10am - 3pm
Price: £150 per person
Spaces: Limited to 10 per session

All materials, tools, and firing are included.

Ready to Try It for Yourself?

Whether you’re new to clay or a returning potter looking for a fresh creative challenge, this class offers a beautiful opportunity to reconnect with your hands - and with nature.

Book your spot now to shape your own sculptural pebble and experience the calm creativity of freeform coiling.

Book your spot here