When it comes to learning pottery, two core techniques form the foundation of most ceramic work: hand-building and wheel-throwing. Both methods offer unique creative opportunities, but each has its own feel, style, and learning curve.

So, which one is right for you? Let’s dive in and explore both approaches to help you decide…

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What is Hand-Building?

Hand-building is the oldest and most traditional form of pottery-making. It involves shaping clay with your hands (and simple tools) rather than using a potter’s wheel. Techniques like pinching, coiling, and slab building allow you to create a wide range of pieces, from bowls and plates to sculptural forms.

Pinching: Pressing clay between your fingers to form small pots or bowls.
Coiling: Rolling out long, rope-like strands of clay and stacking them to create larger, textured vessels.
Slab Building: Flattening clay into sheets (slabs) and cutting, shaping, or joining them to create structured pieces like trays or planters.

Why choose hand-building?

Accessible for beginners – no wheel required, just a few tools and your hands.
Freedom of shape – perfect for organic, asymmetrical designs or sculptural pieces.
Slow and meditative – you can take your time to work through each stage.
Great for home projects – many hand-building projects can be done with air-dry clay.

What is Wheel-Throwing?

Wheel-throwing involves shaping clay on a spinning pottery wheel. This technique allows for creating symmetrical, rounded pieces such as mugs, bowls, tumblers, and vases. It requires a bit of practice to master but is incredibly rewarding once you get the hang of it.

Why choose wheel-throwing?

Perfect for functional pieces – like mugs, plates, and bowls.
Creates clean, symmetrical forms – ideal if you love precision and balance.
Fast once you learn the basics – you can create multiple items in a single session.
Mesmerising and mindful – the rhythmic motion of the wheel is both soothing and satisfying.

Which Should You Try First?

If you’re a total beginner, hand-building can be less intimidating as it gives you more time to learn the feel of clay and its behavior. It’s a great way to start exploring textures, shapes, and creativity without worrying about mastering wheel techniques right away.

However, if you’ve always been drawn to the sight of clay spinning on a wheel (thanks to that famous pottery scene in Ghost or simply watching videos online), wheel-throwing is an experience like no other. There’s something magical about shaping clay with just your hands and the motion of the wheel!

At Chisel Pottery, we recommend trying both! Many of our students start with a taster class on the wheel and then come back for hand-building workshops like our Pinch Pot Café or themed sessions. Both skills complement each other, and exploring both can help you discover which method you enjoy most.

Tips for Beginners

Be patient – Pottery is all about practice and learning from happy accidents.
Wear clothes you don’t mind getting messy – clay will get everywhere (and that’s part of the fun).
Start simple – Don’t expect perfection on your first go; even a small, wonky pot is an achievement!
Experiment – Try both techniques before you decide which one you love.

Ready to Give It a Go?

Whether you want to feel the meditative rhythm of the wheel or experiment with hand-built forms, we have a class for you. Check out our Pottery Throwing Taster or join our hand-building workshops like the Pinch Pot Café to see which technique suits you best.

Take the leap - your first pottery class could be the start of something amazing.