W2+ Special Series - Pottery with Purpose with CPT: Functional Pottery Design (6 weeks)

Throwing pots is one thing—making truly functional, intentional ware is another. In this 6-week course, you’ll learn to design and create pottery with purpose, combining function, ergonomics, and aesthetics. Guided by the amazing Carolynne Pynn Trudeau, you’ll explore how small design decisions—like the curve of a handle, the weight of a rim, or the fit of a lid—can transform everyday pieces into refined, professional work.

You will focus on a different form, from mugs and cups to bowls, plates, and lidded vessels (depending on groups interest). You’ll learn:

• How to design with function in mind.
• Ergonomic considerations that make pottery a pleasure to hold and use.
• Proportion, balance, and the role of shrinkage in finished forms.
• Clay and glaze choices for different moods—from rustic and casual to clean and modern.
• Planning ahead for sets with an introduction to production thinking.

This class is designed for students with confidence on the wheel, working at a Wheel 2  or above and have taken at least one Wheel 2 class (or equivalent). By the end, you’ll not only refine your throwing, but also develop the eye of a designer—creating pottery that’s beautiful, functional, and truly your own.